morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2015-03-02
To: Prep #2
Miles today: 0.0

Mar 2.      Prep #2"The dream and the route"I would have never been able to imagine that I would be so lucky (or bold? Or foolish??). To actually get the opportunity to complete the Triple Crown!!! It still hasn't sunk in.Some of the most difficult planning choices were determining the pace. Do hikers report such low miles because of terrain and climbs or because they are new??My resupply strategy is woefully lacking. Through the AT, it shouldn't be too difficult with the relative proximity of towns along the way. My concern grows when I head north past Katahdin. The trail then becomes the International Appalachian Trail. The more north, the more remote. I hope to walk to the St Lawrence gulf at Cape Gaspe, Quebec. Then, if time permits, head north into Newfoundland. It would be cool to hike to the first Viking settlement in North America. When the weather begins to fall apart, then I will head back down to Springer Mountain, Georgia and head south to Key West. This is called a flip-flop.I will retrace one of my hero's journeys that first inspired me to long distance hike. The hikers name is Nimblewill Nomad and I was fortunate to meet him at the beginning of the CDT. An amazing man with incredible stories..The AT, IAT, and Florida Trail are know collectively as the Eastern Continental Trail! It is 4,400 miles long (w/o Newfoundland)(w/ Newfoundland is 5,400 miles).."The mountains are calling and I must go."
Date: 2015-03-03
To: Prep #3
Miles today: 0.0

Mar 3.   Prep #3Arrival in Milton GeorgiaThe wheels squealed and the Amtrak rocked to a stop.I was at my destination. It was great to see my dad patiently waiting for me on the platform. We exchanged greetings and stories ms headed to my sister's house for the night. It was one last chance to spend time with family before heading off.My gear is ready. I am using most of the same gear as on the CDT. I was able to save a bit of weight with my stove upgrade and insulation layer.I took that weight savings and cashed it in for a second camera and a mini-tripod. (By the way, thanks to Mike Fullerton for making me a bad ass stick pic mount.). I also have decided to take another luxury item-- a ultralight umbrella....Tomorrow is the big day. The weather forecast is saying rain, but that won't stop me.... I can't wait to set foot on that historic trail and soak up all of the views.Look out AT, here comes Sycamore!!
Date: 2015-03-05
From: Sassafras Mountain

To: Lance Creek
Miles today: 13.0

Mar 5.   Cold, windy, and colder!I managed to grab a few hours of sleep last night. Since I was forced to camp on the summit, the rain and wind howled last night. In fact, I had never heard such strong winds as those channeling over the mountain.I survived with only some damp clothes and sleeping bag. I delayed departure in hopes of my tarp drying out. No such luck. I packed up and was on the trail by 730.Yesterday had some relentless climbs and today would be no different. I did enjoy the terrain, but was really hoping for a brief showing by mr sun. That hope was not realized and the day got colder and colder. I ran into several enjoyable folks, some of which were NotYet, the RhodeIslandExpress, Peter, and John and Hannah! It was great! I did end up hiking with NoyYet for a good portion of the day.The craziest individual that I passed was a Southbounder(!!!) who started last June! Insane!!!The clouds kept the views from presenting themselves. The winds continued blowing... C-c-cold!I had greater expectations to hike to Neal's gap. It would be a potential chance to grab a bunk and dry out. By one o'clock, NotYet and I talked about how many hikers ahead of us that might already be at the hostel. They might not even have a bunk..We both decided to join Peter and the RhodeIslandExpress and set up camp early. This would afford us a short day and hopefully a dry bunk tomorrow. It was only lunch time, but the temperature fell off dramatically.There is also a required bear canister area from here to Neal's Gap. I don't have a canister, so that also weighed heavily in my decision.Word is that the temp is going to fall into the low 20's to upper teens tonight. I could watch the water and ground freeze and it was chilly!I had some concerns about pushing too hard this early in the hike. Most of you know the mileages I prefer, but sometimes a short day is worthwhile. I also hadn't eaten anything substantial and wanted a chance to fix that. I still have little appetite in-between the hiking and my recent bout with the flu. Usually, you are happy when your stomach shrinks a bit after being sick.. Not this time.I lounged and gave my muscles and feet a chance to recover. They most certainly appreciated the respite. I have a few blisters and whatnot, but everything is par for the course.I foolishly slipped my foot into the creek while getting water. This could prove very bad tomorrow morning when it is frozen... It might end up like the CDT and I may have to cook my shoe... We shall see!!Lance Creek.   13 miles
Date: 2015-03-06
From: Lance Creek

To: Neals Gap
Miles today: 7.0

Last night was tough with the extreme winds and rain (that turned into a frozen mess). The wind repeatedly surged with the same "jet engine upon take-off" sound. The wet quickly froze as the temperature plummeted.It was a night to hunker down and wait until morning, hoping my gear wouldn't get too soaked. My gear did get pretty soaked....The morning found the whole area frozen hard. Stakes were nearly permanently stuck in the ground. Even Jason (from New York) had his tent poles freeze together..Peter, NotYet, and I began our hike up out of camp. We were headed to the top of Blood Mountain. The morning climb was enjoyable as the trees were covered in a frost rind.We made fairly short work of our climb and were rewarded with actual views of the Appalachians!! The fog had blanketed us from the beginning so it was a great thing. As quick as the view presented itself, it left.The shelter at the top was a super-cool stone structure that looked like it had a lot of history to it.After checking out the summit, I headed down to Neals Gap, home of the famous Mountain Crossings. It is an outfitter and a hostel.It was fun to meet a lot of the hikers staying or passing through. It was time to dry out and wash clothes. This was very timely and would help greatly.Well it is time to eat!!!7 miles (near-o). Neal's Gap
Date: 2015-03-09
From: Deep Gap

To: Dicks Creek Gap
Miles today: 4.0

This morning was a near-o day, (almost zero miles hiked), but it was critical to start early to arrive at Dicks Creek Gap in hopes of nabbing a shuttle ride.A quick check of the watch. Still only 330am. Back to sleep. Check the watch again 500am... Back to sleep.As I woke for the last time, I could hear the tapping of water on my tarp.Rain. I waited for a few minutes. Nope, It didn't sound like it was going to lighten up, so I decided to start packing.Since daylight savings just happened, it was completely black outside. I could see Hermit's headlamp and knew he was on schedule, as well. Before long, I was packed up and ready to go. Both NotYet and Hermit were nearly ready, so I hit the trail. It was as black as night (after all, it was virtually night). I had to use my headlamp to navigate the trail. Rain makes the headlamp difficult to use. The drops reflect off of the light and obscure your view....First, I had to regain the ridge, do a couple of minor climbs up to Powell Mountain, then head back down. On the backside, the light of day finally emerged. That made things easier.After meandering my way down, I saw a road...it was the pass! There was also a very wet hiker. It was Silver, a hiker who had gotten the flu and was having a hard time with the wet.I was in time for the scheduled shuttle, but was still hoping my friends, Hermit, TreeNinja, and NotYet would make it.... As I alternated monitoring the road and the trail for movement, I finally saw them come down the trail!Sweet! We can all go into town together... Now, we just needed a shuttle. The promised shuttle from the Budget never showed, but another one did.It was Mellow (fellow thru hiker) and Yellow (is Benji-like dog) from Top of Georgia (a hostel and outfitter). He was super cool and we worked out a deal for him to shuttle is the 11 miles to Hiawassee.We were now in town!!! Soon, our clothes would be clean and out gear dry. It doesn't seem like I've been out too long, but this was critical, especially with the upcoming week's rain forecast.At the Holiday inn, we ran into John and Hannah, and the rest of their posse. They looked refreshed and excited for the trail. The folks at the Holiday Inn were extremely kind and helpful. During our respite, we bought food for the next leg, ate, and get out Smoky Mountain Natl Park permits. Afterward, a bit of swimming, relaxing, journaling, and a beer (or two). It was a great day and I feel prepped now for the week of rain ahead. Next stop, Franklin, NC! (Yup, tomorrow I cross the border into North Carolina!)Time for one more barley pop and then to bed!!!
Date: 2015-03-10
From: Dicks Creek Gap

To: Carter Gap
Miles today: 24.0

Today, I feel replenished. Ready to tackle some miles! Yesterday provided me with good food, great company, and a chance to go through my gear.We all awoke and finished our last minute chores. NotYet and I went to the post office. It was quite an enjoyable experience as everyone was so nice. Local folks came in and were greeted with first names and handshakes. This little community of Hiawassee really has some kind folks.Afterward, Hermit got a hold of Joyce, a trail angel, and she quickly shuttled us back to Dicks Creek Gap. It was just like I left it (the trail) yesterday. . The weather looked threatening, but was only sprinkling at the time.I started out with an immediate goal in mind-- The North Carolina border! It was in only 9 miles. The climb was reasonable and followed the contour lines subtly up, higher in elevation.The fog rolled in and provided interesting lighting for photography. I ascended and found a couple sitting and taking a break. They motioned over to the tree. It was the state line!! The two hikers were LittleGoat and YellowBeard. They were nice and we chatted a bit.After a candy bar, I continued on. I found the trail to be agreeable and the miles started clicking by. Rain changed to fog which changed into sleet-like precip. The trail went from mud to broken rock to mucky leaves.At a water stop, I got to meet BananaBoat, a nice Indianan. We chatted about a common interest-- kayaking. Soon, it was time for me to push on. This area is a bear sanctuary and there are quite a few sign posted to declare that. I haven't seen lots of bear activity yet, but am keeping my eyes peeled.Eventually, I caught up to Andre, the French sailor. He is really cool. He has sailed around The British Isles and into the Mediterranean. I especially enjoyed chatting with him. we have been on the same pace for quite a while.As it got later in the day, I realized that my friends would most likely not catch up today. It was a great hiking day, so I probably went a bit far. My hope is that they catch up to me in Franklin.I kept my eye on the profile map and my other eye on my watch. Before I knew it, I was at Carter Gap. There was good water and someone was nice enough to make a mini trough out of leaves. I found a flat spot and a tree to hang my food. I am done for tonight!First, I always hang my rope. Next is water and last is shelter. Then it is time for dinner. I was able to do the 24 miles in about 8.5 hours.After setting up, a couple of fellow campers came by to chat. Mau, Rocky, John, and Metters. They were mostly from Atlanta, with the exception of Mau being from Santa Cruz.As the daylight turned to night, the skies opened up again and rained down. I think I'll try to run for town tomorrow and hide from the rain. We'll see how I feel.Time for some shut eye!!
Date: 2015-03-11
From: Carter Gap

To: Winding Staircase Gap
Miles today: 16.0

As dawn grew near, I began to hear the familiar sound of tapping on my tarp. I quietly listened and heard the frequency increase. Yup, more rain. I did see a brave soul's headlamp coming down the trail hours before sunrise.I waited until there was a bit of daylight and then proceeded to quickly pack up. I knew it would be a short day with only 16 miles to town. It was almost 8am by the time I started heading down the trail.I headed down the trail with purpose. My gear was again damp and could use a day off to dry. The meandering trail climbed up and followed the mountains contours well. There were a few steep and taxing climbs. One that comes to mind was Albert Mountain. At certain times, the trail turned into a steep stairway climbing higher into the clouds.The humidity made these climbs a bit tougher than usual. I was hopeful that the fire lookout tower would be unlocked and accessible. As I gained the summit, I saw that the stairwell was unlocked and open. The bad news was that the entire area was enveloped in clouds and rain.No climb up those stairs for me....I only passed a couple of hikers today. Butch and the Sundance Kid (section hikers) were on the trail early. They were also planning on coming into town today to dry out. The other hiker I passed was heading straight to Fontana Dam. A good destination if the weather was cooperating.I got to see a grouse today. Other than some Nuthatches and other small birds, this was my first critter of this trail. I expect that is strongly related to the inclement weather.I felt strong and hiked fast. I was cautious with my knees today. They have a small bit of soreness, but seem to be ok. The tread of the trail was muddy, but lots of leaf litter stabilized the surface pretty well.I got to Winding Stair Gap by 1:20pm. The rain suddenly started coming down much harder. As I went to get my rain jacket out, a nice guy approached me.   "Would you like a ride to town??" The fellow asked.   "Heck ya!!! That would be incredible!!" I replied.The fellow's name was Intense and he was a fellow thru hiker from a few years back. It was so unbelievably helpful. Not only did he drive me to a motel, he also took me to the grocery store! That made short work of my chores!!Afterward, I ate, did laundry, and showered. It was the best to dry out my gear again. The weather forecast says that I should only have three more days of rain before a break. It is crazy that I've already had 5 of 7 days with rain. Three more days will be more than enough.Tomorrow, I will get a ride back to the pass and head towards Fontana dam, gateway to Smoky Mountain Natl Park!!Time to eat some more and get some rest!!
Date: 2015-03-12
From: Winding Staircase Gap

To: Franklin, NC
Miles today: 0.0

Zero in FranklinI decided to err on the side of caution and took my first zero in Franklin, NC. It was a good, compact town for that.I am hoping that my heals can heal and that I can rest my knees and ankles. My back is out a little causing some discomfort, so I hoped it might go back into place.Today, I walked into town and enjoyed the outfitter. It was very oriented to the AT and had a mini beer lounge in it.As I lounged around, TreeNinja, Hermit, and NotYet came into town! That was cool to hang out again. Other hikers who came in was Q-Tip and Charlie, Axon and Chars, Recon, and Butch and the Sundance Kid.I repacked and got ready for the rain to come. It will be three more days of significant rain coming up. That is tough, but it will help me appreciate when it is dry and I can actually take breaks. (When it is raining, I don't normally take breaks).In two and a half days, I will be at the border of Smoky Mountains National Park. It will be exciting, but the thru hiker camping regulation is kind of crappy, if you ask me.Tomorrow, there is supposed to be a shuttle to get back up to Winding Stair Gap. Right out of there is up, up, up!!Time for some rest!
Date: 2015-03-14
From: Wesser Bald

To: Brown Fork Gap
Miles today: 22.0

Today's weather... Any guesses?? Come on.... Guess?!Ok, ok, you got me.... Yup, rain. Another day of rain...I woke up to a cold, wet morning where everything was soaked. Let's not forget where those cold, wet clothes have to go..... Brrr.The trail has worsen over the last two days. It is now a soupy, muddy mess. There were times that I skied the mud on the leaves. Other times felt like I was nearly on a treadmill, not able to make forward progress with the slipperiness of the mud.I was fortunate to pass by the really cool facility, NOC- (it's a kayaking/outdoor center). If I had budgeted my miles differently, I most certainly would have stayed there.I used their bathroom, or should I say specifically their hand dryer. I feebly attempted to undo a day and a half of rain in mere minutes. It seemed like a great plan, but it failed to pan out. The best part was tucking the blower nozzle into my rain coat to warm up! That did work quite well!!I bought a couple of snacks and headed back out into the rain.
Date: 2015-03-15
From: Brown Fork Gap

To: Fontana Village
Miles today: 11.0

I woke up and immediately knew something was amiss. Listening, I knew..... No rain drops! It was cold, dang cold, but it was dry!!I sat for a bit allowing for the beginning sun and winds to dry out my tarp a bit. If only I could dry those clothes that I need to put back on. No luck of that.I slowly got myself together and did the morning ritual of donning on the soaked duds. Once I start the process, I move quickly.   It was nice beginning the day with a dry sky.I headed down the trail which was already improving, in regards to the slipperiness. That was a good thing with the steep slopes and heavy leaf litter.I got to see views!!! Great views of the mountains!!! It made walking very enjoyable. I hiked along ridge lines and down through more gaps. There were a few tough climbs, but I knew I would be at Fontana Lodge after a half day. There, I would dry out my gear for a dash through the next 109 mile section.I know the weather forecast means zilch up in these mountains, but the forecast did say I would have three days of dry before the rain returned.As I ascended up to a ridge, I got to see the Fontana Dam, biggest in the east. It was cool with the contrasting tans of the shoreline and the deep blue of its water. There was a lot of boat traffic on it; a fair share being houseboats.I got down to the road to call for the shuttle and StickChick drove up and offered me a ride! She also toted me over to the next town to save me some dough on my resupply. Thanks again, StickChick!After the shopping, I returned to finally do my laundry. I couldn't be more excited to do laundry!! Following that, I hope to rest my feet and legs for the upcoming week!!!
Date: 2015-03-16
From: Fontana Village

To: Derrick Knob Shelter
Miles today: 24.0
Weather: broken clouds

Morning came early today. The main issue--blinds on the windows. I looked at the clock; it was 7:10. The sun was beginning to clear the mountain.I gathered my gear and made it down to the lobby in short order. The Park Service runs a shuttle service back to the trail. After a 15 minute ride, I was back at the trail. The trail started out gently and wound its way near the Fontana Reservoir. It was very beautiful with the bright blue and rugged hills. It was a good warm up as the trail worked its was to the Fontana Dam.The dam was massive and desolate. It was officially closed to traffic, but thru hikers are allowed to cross. It was great views from the dam. The water level was very low due to the season.Once I got across the dam, I entered Great smoky mountain Natl Park. It was a real occasion. The next 17 miles were basically uphill. The weather was ideal. The sun baked down, yet the temperatures stayed comfortable in the low 50's.The trees were amazing with the Beech, pines, and Birch (let's call them Silver Birch since they are so silvery!). These birch had incredible roots that maintained the birch bark appearance. The roots seemed to be alive, almost like tentacles.The day finished with some big climbs to scenic views! Along the climb, I was happy to run into Andre!! Unfortunately, he said that he will be going into Gatlinburg for some new shoes. Eventually, I made it to Derrick Shelter. There was a group of they hikers there as well as a couple of section hikers. We all chatted and hung out for dinner. It was an enjoyable, eclectic group.   This would be my first shelter of the hike. It is per park regulation. The shelter as nice and comprised of stone walls with a metal roof. Unfortunately, two of the hikers snored ALL night long, so sleep was not happening.Daylight is fading fast. Time for zzzzz's! As we all laid in the shelter, a black bear came to check out camp.
Date: 2015-03-17
From: Derrick Knob Shelter

To: Peck Shelter
Miles today: 28.5

I tried watching the translucent panes in the ceiling of the shelter for the morning sun. It was a bit overcast so there wasn't much light to be had.Almost everybody got up at about the same time. That is how it works in a shelter. I busted down the trail at 8am. It was time to churn some miles.I started a climb that would eventually take me up to Clingmans Dome, the highest elevation on the AT. Along the way, I found an idyllic spot with a spring. I briefly sat down and took a break. I think that is only one of two or three breaks that I've taken thus far.While I was there, a nice deer came over and ate with me. He, of course, was eating grass and I was having jerky and cheese. His color was beginning to change, just like the seasons.Break time was over and I needed to get back to walking. The higher elevations turned into a cool, decomposing forest with tons of moss. It was wet... No, it was soaking.Later, I got to chat up a group of five guys on spring break from University of Alabama Huntsville. I appreciated the conversation and would dub them "the dudes" after that.I got up to Clingmans Dome, only to find that I was enveloped in a cloud. Big drops of water fell out of the clouds at random. It was wet!! The sad part was there was a large observation tower for folks to enjoy the view. I didn't go up it since I already had a good view of the cloud that I was in!As I began descending, I ran into my first real ice and snow on the trail. The ice was very slippery on the steep sections. I negotiated it and made it down to a road crossing.The road crossing was a sight to be seen. There were hoards of tourists all about, checking me out as if I was a roadside attraction. It was kind of neat to see.The best part was seeing a sign that as for the AT. It was a sign that my folks had taken a picture for me last year. I never knew where it was, but I was looking for it!!! I had finally found it!!Pressing on, I was stopped twice, once by a ranger and once by a ridge runner (I think they are deputized Rangers, specific to the AT), to check for my permit.... Not a problem, but it takes way too long .I got to do a great ridge line walk today. At times, the ridge was as narrow as four foot wide. Super cool traverse. Unfortunately, the weather was coming in, so I had to hurry. The spacing of the shelters today left me in a predicament. Either do only 21 miles or go all the way to 28.5. I had to go for the latter.After a long, meandering hike, I found a sign to the shelter. It was a half mile off of the trail. That's tough, but well worth it! I got down to the shelter and met some Texas A&M guys on break, as well as a couple from Florida.I made short time of getting water and making dinner. I was hungry and tired!!! It is now 8 pm and I am ready to hit the hay!!