morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2008-06-02
From: Spring

To: Craig Creek Valley
Miles today: 17.7

Today started with a climb. What else is there? The AT is usually up hill both ways. We came upon a road where we encountered "Twinkle Toes" stepping from her mother's car. She lives in the area and is doing several slaks and staying at home each night. Her mother mentioned there might be some trail magic later?The day is warm & sunny. There was another big climb later in the day. Just before doing so, I took a 40 minute lunch break. Out in the middle of nowhere, we came across an old abandoned house that was used in the Filming of "The Blair Witch Project" so I am told?Naturally, I have pictures.Apparrently, we were to late for the trail magic that Twinkle Toes had left. However, this being the AT, we came across another cooler of trail magic a little further on. What are the odds?Pop & Apples are always a good treat. Most of the hikers in this bubble were stopping at the Niday Shelter tonight.We decided to push a little further again.We pitched our own camp a couple minutes further from where Feral & Green Tea, Peach & Fuzz, and Sparky & Stubby were camping.On a final note, Today would have been my parents 56th wedding anniversary.Unfortunately my father passed away 2 years ago. However, to you both, Mom & DadHappy Anniversary!
Date: 2008-06-04
From: Briar Patch's Home

To: Campbell Shelter
Miles today: 10.3
Weather: scattered clouds

Bright & early, Scott drove us back to the trailhead on his way to work.We stopped long enough for me to run up the trail and retrieve his empty cooler for him.The big event today was reaching McAffe Knob. The hike along the way was a gradual climb. But having seen this famous landmark in so many other journals, I couldn't wait to get there.Upon reaching the spot, you could see where the sign had been. I suspect it is now a stolen souvenier?Stepping out along the rock ledge in which the knob protrudes from, I could finally see what was never revealed in the previous pictures. I was always curious what the view was when standing out on the ledge and actually how high up it was? Now I know. The wind kicked up just for a second and blew "Couscous's" sleeping pad right of the edge. Fortunately, he was able to climb down another spot and make his way down to retrieve it. Sprite & Freckles phoned their friends & family as cell reception was pretty good. They sent pictures over their phone. Sprite offered me her phone and I called my son & my sister Lisa. It was then that I learned, how frantic some family back home were? The last they heard, I was somewhere in the mountains with pneumonia. All kinds of thoughts were entertained since they never heard back from me....Sorry?Hopefully all is well now?Today marks a nother milestone. 700 miles! Hard to believe, it's been a long haul already and it's only one -third of the way.I had planned to do atleast another 8 miles to Tinker cliffs. I could see them off in the distance. Rain was in the forecast and more thunderheads were forming and already present. We elected to stop short at Campbell Shelter. There I met "Bearseeker". He was a former trail maintainer in this area. He moved away and was back visiting the area and doing a small section hike. It was a 3 minute walk to reach the spring for water. It sure is cold and tastes great. I do treat all my water. My experience over the years has led me to the conclusion, better safe than sorry. For the little extra effort it takes, it easily outweighs the consequences.Since I am in the shelter tonight, I sure hope it rains. It's the only real justification for me.
Date: 2008-06-05
From: Campbell Shelter

To: Daleville
Miles today: 15.4
Weather: scattered clouds

No rain last night.Oh well, no mud either. Got off to an early start for Tinker Cliffs.The 5.1 miles went by quick. The ridgeline was a gradual up, but an enjoyable hike none the less. Upon arrival, I walked out onto a flat rocky ledge.I dropped my pack, laid back on it and just enjoyed the view. It was the kind of morning where it seemed like time actually stood still for awhile. I told myself to remember this moment. I would draw on its peaceful memory in the future, take as much in as possible, remember the feeling.Looking back at McAfee Knob, it seems so small from here. Bramma Bull, Sweet Potatoe & Thinker arrived a short while later.They did not stop for a long look. Sweet Potatoe said they were heading to Troutville. They had a motel with a pool in mind. They were not going to waste any time in getting there. It was only 11 more miles, and just like that, they were gone.As the temperature rose to 98 degrees today. All I could think about was that pool. In fact with each mile, I became more fixated on visualizing the pool until I decided no matter what, by the end of the day I will be swimming in that pool!The last 2 + hours was walking a ridgeline looking down far away at civilization. It was Daleville/Troutville? It seemed like we kept walking but weren't getting closer. Eventually we came down from the mountain and hit a hiway.We walked 1 mile to the comfort Inn. We passed 2 other motels but the Comfort Inn was only $39.95 Hiker rate. The 3 of us checked in, sharing the room. I headed straight for the pool to make good on the promise I made to myself.Sprite & Freckles took a cab to the P.O. to pick up a mail drop package.After I was good and cooled off, I went to Dollar General to do some resupply.What a great place, it is a thru-hikers store for sure.Afterward I headed straight back to the pool. Ahhhh! How refreshing!Dinner was a short walk to Shoneys, salad bar nothing special. The heat was record high since 1974. The news is claiming a heat wave that will reach past 100 degrees for the rest of the week. Oh joy, something to look forward too?Back in the room, I cranked up the AC and proceeded to sleep in the most comfortable bed since I have been on the trail. In fact the Comfort Inn is clean, up to date, and cheap!. Walking the extra mile was well worth it compared to what some of the others are staying in and paying. I would come back here in a heartbeat.
Date: 2008-06-06
From: Daleville

To: Wilson Creek Shelter
Miles today: 11.5
Weather: few clouds

The heat was brutal outside. It was hard to get off the bed and out of the AC.Breakfast was being served in the lobby. Juice, coffee, yogurt, bagels, donuts it was alright, I wasn't expecting it to be so good and plentiful.Most of the other hikers decided to stay and Zero today. We finally got moving at 9:30, walked the mile back to the trail head and back at it.It was HOT!, HOT!, HOT!We walked 5 miles to the Fullhardt Shelter. We dropped our packs, went for water a little way down the trail, came back, had a light lunch and then fell asleep for a couple of hours, drifting in & out.We met 2 locals hiking, "Wrongway" & "OtterBill". We spoke for awhile, they were very knowledgible with trail information and things to look for up ahead.They shared humorous stories about some characters they have met on the trail.Later we stopped along a running creek and made dinner. I was feeding the fish Mac& cheese, they liked it alot more than I did. I eventually ended up tenting at Wilson Creek Shelter. Sherpa Dan & Party Animal were here tonight. In addition, is a Southbounder and former Thru-hiker "BearChaser" How she got her trail name was an entertaining story. (Short version), A bear which she thought was a raccon, slashed her tent open and took her pack. Right after it in the dark she went, until she realized her pack was not dragging the ground, It was up much higher. etc...etc... Hilarious, none the less.Today was a late start, high heat, long breaks, low miles.
Date: 2008-06-07
From: Wilson Creek Shelter

To: Jennings Creek
Miles today: 16.9

Today was a long Hot day. Alot of uphill and a lot of heat.The goal for today was Jennings Creek. There was a nice swimming hole there.We had been previously warned by Bear Chaser that there was no water source until reaching this point 16.9 miles away.It's difficult to ration water on long, hot, uphill days. But that's what has to be done. Along the way I kept a look out and checked several possible areas where water might be found? No luck, until later, I finally found a small little trickle of a spring. It was enough to get by on.I have been noticing more and more deer along the trail. It is a reminder of just how deep in their territory I am. Do I smell like another animal?Finally, about 6:00 p.m. we came down the mountain and arrived at Jennings Creek. We dropped our packs, peeled down to swim attire and dove in.There were some locals swimming there as well. Man, did that water feel good.A short while later we learned of the leaches, but that did not discourage us cooling down.The companion mentioned the Middle Creek Camp with store nearby. We asked the wrong person for directions. After our swim, we merrily walked off in the wrong direction. Not until over a mile later did I ask some guys fishing and learned it was back the way we came.The problem beside the obvious, was that the store closed at 9:00 p.m. It was already late. We tried hitching,to no avail. Then finally, a lady named Bettywhom was looking for another campground in the area gave us a ride.Offering us a cold beer, we readily accepted. She was already enjoying one.Betty dropped us at the camp store which turned out to be quite a distance.Their grill was closed, however the owner upon hearing we were AT thru-hikers had her cashier fire up the grill and fix us what ever we wanted. Now that is service.Unfortunately, the store did not sell beer. I am normally not a big beer drinker, however this heat has me craving a cold one more & more.It was getting dark, so we started walking back toward our secret camp near the creek.Several minutes later, the owner who had the grill opened for us, pulled up alongside us in her SUV. Even though we were not staying in her campground, she did not want us to walk in the dark all the way back. SO she drove us back to the creek. What service, what kindness! I swear I have never experienced anything like this ever in my life. This was the icing on the cake of trail magic on a long, hot day.
Date: 2008-06-11
From: Punch Bowl Shelter

To: Buena Vista
Miles today: 11.0

It did rain & thunder all night.A special treat was hearing owls throughout the night. We packed up and left this shelter of unsolved mysteries.Later we passed some southbounders whom indicated we would find trail magic ahead. Always good news to hear. Further down the trail, while crossing a footbridge, there was a note tacked up indicating trail magic ahead. Double confirmation, this is a good sign.After about 9 miles we met the "Trail Assain" & his wife "Tomboy". On the edge of an old road where the trail comes out and crosses, they had a portable kitchen rack, grill, tables & chairs set up. There was food & cold drinks just waiting for us and anyone else who was fortunate to be here.A father & Son whom were section hiking was there also, they were "Swamp Pa" & "Banjo Boy". Our hosts had just celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary the day before. They shared their cute story of early romance until Tomboy turned 18, then they wed. Since they were married outdoors in this area, they spend 2 weeks a year providing Trail Magic and meeting new hikers.Even though, his health is poor and he has seen a hospital more times than anyone should, they can't imagine doing anything differently? How cool is that? God Bless you both and I wish you much happiness always, however, it sounds like you already have it.They took our pictures and added them to this years album. Hikers in the future will see our faces as we saw those whom were here in previous years. Assassin & Tom Boy, are another 2 reasons of what makes the AT so special. Thanks.Eventually, we came from the woods and hit US 60. It was a 10 mile hitch into Buena Vista. We stopped to rest at some roadside tables at a pull over. Lining our packs up along the road, we took turns in a half assed effort to thumb the few passing cars.It just so happened after awhile that a former Thru-Hiker "Leggs" came by.He offers shuttles for hire, so we accepted his service. Another ride in the back of a pick up, I really like this mode of travel. We checked into the Buena Vista Motel and cranked up the AC. I walked on into town to pick up some drinks and snacks, so we could enjoy while chilling out (literally).We ate lunch and dinner next door at the "Tired Feet Cafe". Our mileage has been low these past 2 days as tomorrow, we are returning to Daleville back to the Comfort Inn. Kim is flying in to nearby Roanoke and we are all going to take a few Zero days.The rest of the evening was leisure unwinding, a break from the heat, and rest for the body.
Date: 2008-06-12
From: Buena Vista

To: Back to Daleville
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

First of all, today is my oldest daughter Jeannette's Birthday.Happy Birthday Darling! I'm sending you my love and best wishes.First order of business was breakfast. The "Tired Feet Cafe" was closed so we ended up walking 3 miles into and at the far edge of town. We settled on a little place that fed us disappointment on a tray."Filler" is the best compliment I can give it.We did enjoy walking back through the quaint downtown area. The girls were wanting to get their hair done, so we stopped into a beauty parlor. Naturally bored, I soon found entertainment while at the same time taking pitty on the owner's 7 yr. old grandson Todd. His parents were working, so he had to stay here and amuse himself all day in the waiting area.I would have lost my mind at his age. I had to do what I could to help ease his pain, or so I thought. He was trying to make a fort in a corner with a chair and a couple of towels.Since it was just the two of us in this little area, I gave him suggestions on how it could be better. Afterall, I have built a few forts in my day. With Todd doing all the work under my direction, It started out by moving the toy chest, when it was finished, the entire waiting area was rearranged, every piece of furniture was utilized except for the chair I was sitting in, and an awesome fort was now being enjoyed by a 7 yr. old kid. I felt bad for Todd having to be caged liked that all day. You could tell he came from a loving family and would be all right, but this boy needed to be out and about. I'm sure his grandmother wasn't to pleased with me after she noticed the re-arrangement? It's a safe bet that I won't be called back anytime soon to baby-sit. Regardless, I have done my good deed for the day. See ya Todd.We left and walked back to the "Tired Feet Cafe" for lunch. Freckles had rented a car. A man arrived and drove us to the next town to pick it up. On the way back in this PT Cruiser, we stopped at Food Lion to give Feral & Green Tea a ride back to the motel. We saw them walking earlier.Upon our arrival, it was like a reunion in the parking lot. Not only were they there but Brama Bull, Sweet Potatoe, Thinker, Rabid, Pic and the 3 of us.We haven't seen them since Tinker Cliffs before Troutville.Sadly, Pic & Rabid announced that they were leaving the trail.They will be missed. Hugs & handshakes then a hearty farewell. The drive back to Daleville was about 60 miles. Upon arrival we checked back in to the Comfort Inn, did errands, checked out other places because we could, and had dinner. They were planning their next few days off while Kim & I did our thing. I can tell you this, Most of that plan stemmed around them doing Trail Magic. They are true angels without a doubt!
Date: 2008-06-16
From: Zero in Daleville

To: Hog Camp Gap
Miles today: 6.0
Weather: clear sky

Today Kim was leaving and heading back to Canada.We passed the early hours away until returning to the airport and dropping off our rental. This moment is bitter-sweet. I miss her and I miss the trail.What a dilema?After her plane took off it was time to get going, there was a lot to do.After checking out, We drove to where we would camp tonight and hid our packs.Next we returned the rental and were shuttled back to the trailhead.Our hike from there was only 6 miles. There was an initial climb but the rest wasn't bad. We passed "Toes", "Wasabi" & his sister who was hiking with him for a few days.We reached Hog Camp Gap. It was more or less a big grassy field surronded by woods. It even had a rope swing hanging from a big tree next to where we set up our tents. Needless to say, we all tried it out. I forgot how much fun it could be.Just as we were preparing dinner, A hiker we have never met before, rolled in. His name was "Extra". We all got acquainted then it started to rain, so everyone retired to their tents. As I lay here, I am hoping that Kim made it home safely? I thought of each of my kids as well. Though not kids anymore, They're still my babies just the same.I also am thinking about how much weight I have lost. Losing fat is a bonus, however losing muscle is not a good thing. It wasn't until I had actually taken a good look at myself during my downtime that I realized just what losing nearly 40 pounds can do to you? My old clothes that Kim brought were hanging on me, where they once were filled out. I realized that I needed to increase my protein levels. Though excercise, Fatty foods and carbohydrates have been plentiful. I now will have tuna with every meal and will take every opportunity where possible to eat meat. Back around Erwin Tennessee, I carried whey powder for awhile. However, water was scarce at times and and I just didn't get into the routine of taking it regularly. Another milestone victory today, as 800 miles is now behind me. An achievenment, alot of memories, alot of faces, alot of hardships.But alot of smiles!
Date: 2008-06-17
From: Hog Camp Gap

To: Tye River
Miles today: 19.4
Weather: scattered clouds

This morning I woke up with a wicked pain in my left knee.I guess walking in a mall and other places the past few days, wearing flip flops was to much of a shock for them.After having taken the most time off, it was time to make some miles. The thunderstorms last night dropped a lot of rain. Walking through the high grass had me soaked in no time.The hi-lite of the day was sitting atop Spy rock. It offered a great view of the mountains. Having been off these past days has separated us from other hikers we have shared many miles with. It's possible we may never meet again, then again you never know? I am in a new bubble of hikers now. Today I have met "Grandpa Joe", "Just Mike" from Austrailia, "Mash", "Canuck" & "Gonzo". The area where we planned to camp offered no real good spots. It was getting late, but over Priest mountain I went and continued down another 4 miles until reaching the Tye River.My knee has really been aching today. My pace has slowed right down.Sprite & Freckles had gone ahead. I eventually rejoined them as it was turning dark. They had camped just the other side of the suspension bridge along the river. It was a good set up, close to water and just in time.This is the most knee pain I have experienced so far. I growled & groaned all day. But like it or not, these knees are going to Maine. It was time to remind them again, they can either walk on their own, or I will drag them, but they're going!Sprite had packed some wine,which we shared and made a proper ending for this long day.
Date: 2008-06-18
From: Tye River

To: Blue Ridge Parkway-Dripping Rock
Miles today: 15.3

Today would be the last of the 4000 footers until reachng Massachusetts. The climbs were not as steep. Although my knee is really giving me problems.We ran into "Ridge Runner Mike" who gave us good information on water sources as they were several miles apart.The rest of the day was rocky and rather difficult to walk. We ended up camping about 500 feet above the Blue Ridge Parkway at Dripping Rock."Extra" whom we had met a couple of days ago, set his tent up right at the curb along side the road. I guess he had enough today and wasn't going any further.As the sun is going down, I am waiting for my Tylenol 3's to kick in. Hopefully it will take the edge off the pain my knee is giving me?Kim had brought these along with an antibiotic from my dentist, in anticipation of problems arising from my cracked tooth back in Pearisburg.Luckily, I have not had any problems so far. In fact, her friend Heather & Stepmother Ma, had both sent me a little care package. Thanks you two, I really appreciated them.Tomorrow, we should be arriving in Waynesboro. Hopefully I can find another knee brace there?
Date: 2008-06-19
From: Blue Ridge Parkway-Dripping Rock

To: Waynesboro
Miles today: 14.3
Weather: scattered clouds

Today the trail has become easier as it descends into lower elevation.While taking a break today, a deer whom had little fear of us, did not redily move from his grazing spot as we approached. In fact it even gave us a bluff charge as we walked toward it. This was a sure sign we were getting near the Shenandoah's.After 14.3 miles I arrived in Rockfish Gap. Thats where the Blue Ridge Parkway ends and the Shenandoah's begin. We came out of the woods and came upon US 250 & I 64. There was a closed gas station and a motel. Freckles had gone ahead to enquire about a shuttle on into Waynesboro?Eventually a trail Angel named Dave Berry pulled up in his jeep. What a super guy, he has been doing this for years on his own without any ATC fan fare.He stopped at the Outfitters, then drove us into town to the YMCA.There for $2.00 you get a shower, clean towel and can camp a block away in a private park like area. Once clean, we set up our tents, walked to Kroger and did some phase 1 resupply then ended up walking another 2 miles to an Italian restaurant. We passed several places, but Sprite had her heart set on Italian.Afterall, her birthday was coming up, so that was that.Upon our return as it was dark now, we stopped in again at Krogers to pick up some munchies and wine. Our walk had made us hungry again, remember a thru-hikers appetite is unrivaled anywhere.We sat at a pic-nic table with "No Pains". He was retired from the Army, and has previously thru-hiked. He was from Washington D.C. and was finishing his hike here, before returning home. We first met at Uncle Johnny's back in Erwin Tennessee."No Pains" had us in stitches as he shared this next story. On his previous hike, he was in the Shenandoah's and stopped to fill out a registration permit at a remote box in the woods. He was extremely well intoxicated,( feeling No Pains), earphones on listening to his music, reaching down fumbling with his Gaitor while trying to keep his balance and remain standing. All the while, he is annoyed by an unknown stinch and flies buzzing around his head. Each time he waved his hand in front of him to swat the flies he would slightly lose his balance. He swatted again then turned to face a black bear that was behind him.The only thing he remembers besides a mortified manly scream was his treking poles raining back down from the sky. The bear was just as startled at this and took off.Just the way he was telling the story and picturing all this, was almost to much bear, so to speak & no pun intended.No Pains went on to say that by making it this far, we would no doubt make it the rest of the way. As long as the money doesn't run out, the worst is over.Thanks for the confidence buddy. The hour was late, everyone went to their tents and no pains was in his hammock between two trees on the river.