Appalachian Trail Hike 2008

Amicalola Falls State Park, United States, Georgia @ Amicalola Falls State Park, United States, Georgia

2008-02-17T08:48:09.000Z

Amicacola State Park - Welcome Center and beginning of AT Approach Trail @ Amicalola Falls State Park, United States, Georgia

2008-02-17T15:30:17.000Z

Gateway to the Applachian Trail - 9 Mile Approach Trail to the Summit of Springer Mountain and the beginning of the AT.

Day = 0 Max Epperson Shelter At Amicacola Falls Welcome Center @ Amicalola Falls State Park, United States, Georgia

2008-02-17T15:41:09.000Z

We arrived at Amicacola Falls Welcome Center around 3:00 PM and was dropped off by my wife Laura, son Jon, daughter Larissa and grandson Keith. They departed around 4:00 pm amid tears and rain coming down from a approaching storm. My trip was made possible thru the support of friends, church family, my family and most of all Laura who has been behind me all the time as I was planning this trip. May God bless me and all thru hikers as we begin this great adventure from Georgia to Maine.

Day = 1 Stover Creek Shelter - mileage = 2.5 / total to date = 2.5 @ Stover Creek Shelter, United States, Georgia

2008-02-18T10:00:09.000Z

Piperhiker completed the 9 mile approach trail to the top of Springer Mt., which has been the Southern Terminus of the Applacian Trail since 1958. Piperhiker then celebrated with powdered wine from Germany provided by his son Lance and also ate a snickers bar, befoe making the final 2.5 miles to the Stover Creek Shelter. I met several hikers at the shelter, namely Scott who is doing some video till we get to Neels Gap and Gills - 2005 SOBO, his brother Hurricane and friend Spencer. It was a cold night, but slept well in my new sleeping bag. Tempertures got just a little below freezing, but not too cold. Supper was some chicken noodle soup.

Day = 2 - Gooch Mt. Shelter - Mileage = 12.4 / Total Todate =14.9 @ Gooch Mountain Shelter, United States, Georgia

2008-02-19T16:00:09.000Z

Got up and going around 8:00 from Stover Shelter and stopped at Long Creek Falls for water and photos before heading on up the trail to Gooch. Got to Gooch around 4:00 and met new couple recently out of the Peace Corp - Ben & Raven. Also met older hiker - Willie Boy. Gills, Hurricane and Spencer were already there when I arrived. Scott arrived later and took some more video. Not too cold, but Scott does snore a little.

Day = 3 - Neels Gap / Walasi-Yi Outfitter Mileage= 15.6 / Total todate= 30.5 @ Neels Gap - Walasi-Yi Hostel, United States, Georgia

2008-02-20T17:30:00.000Z

I was out of the shelter and on the trail by 8:00 am and stopped for a photo opportunity with Willie Boy at the top of RimRock Mt. just before Woody Gap. I later met Chuck, a hiker just about my age on the climb to top of Blood Mt. - Chuck is faster going up, but I catch up on the big downhills. Climbing Blood was tough, tough, tough, but the view from the top at 4:00 pm was great. The two mile climb down was extremely tough, expecially on the knees, but a hot shower waiting at the hostel made it well worth it. Pirate, a hiker and real character, runs the hostel and provided a hot breakfast for all. I met some new hikers, Dave from London and his wife Kat from Scoutland. Scott departed us to go back to work as he was just spending a few days hiking for a video opportunity..

Day= 4 Low Gap Shelter - Mileage= 10.6 / Total = 41.1 @ Low Gap Shelter, United States, Georgia

2008-02-21T17:00:00.000Z

I had to wait for the outfitter store above the hostel to open at 9:00 am so I could pay for the nights lodging and get a couple of new items for my hiking. Chuck and I met on the trail again during my climb out of Neels Gap. We had had our first encounter with bad weather around noon and had to put on rain gear for the last few hours into Low Gap Shelter. Hiking in rain gear is no fun as you sweat pretty bad under the rain gear and your feet sweat inside your boots as the Gore Tex Membrane can't breathe very well with water all over the outside of your boots. I started to have some pain in my right heel tendon where the boot is rubbing. This is the same foot with bone spur, so it may be connected to my original problem. It was a wet night at the shelter with Dave & Kat there, a new couple - Josh & Amanda, and Chuck and myself. No hot supper tonight, just some peanut butter, as there was nowhere to cook out of the rain - old shelter, with a table setting out in the rain.

Day= 5 Tray Mt. Shelter - Mileage= 14.9 / Total todate= 56.0 @ Tray Mountain Shelter, United States, Georgia

2008-02-22T17:00:00.000Z

Started out from Low Gap Shelter just before 8:00 am in a light rain with my Frogg Togg Rain Gear on. It was cold and misted, but decided to take rain gear off about one hour later and just tough it to get some better air flow on the body. Started to have more heel pain on the right foot around noon when I got to top of Blue Mt. about 7 miles later and had to put some padding on the tendon area just above the heel. I ate quick snack on the trail and pushed on. The walk up Blue was tough due to the rocky terrain and constant slipping on wet rocks - definately a "Unsafe Condition" by BASF Standards. It was a tough grind all day with ups and downs and two serious mountain climbs to reach the top of Tray and the shelter. Met DartMan at the shelter who thru'd in 2001 carring his darts and dart board - he is quite a character and is attempiting anouther thru hike this year, but without the darts. Chuck came in after I did and also a couple of other young hikers. Fixed a hot meal of chicken soup for supper and went to bed.

Day= 6 Hiawassee, Ga. Mileage= 10.6 / Total todate= 66.6 @ Hiawassee, GA, United States, Georgia

2008-02-23T14:00:00.000Z

Left Tray this morning around 7:30 am and made it to Dick Creek Gap on Hy 76 round 2:00 pm. I was surprised by Hurricane and Spencer coming down the mountain on my way to Dicks Creek Gap, as they were originally ahead of me, but were now "slack packing" from Unicoi Gap. they had gotten off the trail at Unicoi Gap yesterday and hitched into Hiawassee and spent the night and were back to finish the trail to Dicks Creek Gap. We were met by Keith "Gills" , who was at the road to pick up Spenser and Hurricane and they waited for me for the ride into Hiawassee. When I checked in at the Holiday Inn Express, to my surprise, Laura was already there. The trip down the mountain to the road was a long, long downhill and tough on the knees and rest of the body but a hot bath in town sure was refreshing.

Day = 7 Zero at Hiawassee Holiday Inn - Mileage= 0 / Total todate= 66.6 @ Hiawassee, GA, United States, Georgia

2008-02-24T08:00:00.000Z

Laura and I had a wonderful night and great morning together. I will be resting the rest of the day and doing some resupply. We met Hurricane and Spencer this morning at breakfast here in the Hotel. They will be heading back out to the trail today, while I update my journal and wait for the Post Office to open Monday Morning.

Return to Trail from Hiawassee @ Dicks Creek Gap, United States, Georgia

2008-02-25T10:00:00.000Z

After Post Office opened, I caught a ride back to the trail at Dicks Creek Gap and started hiking to the next shelter.

Day=8 Plumorchard Gap Shelter Miles=4.3 / Total=70.9 @ Plumborchard Gap, United States, Georgia

2008-02-25T13:00:00.000Z

I got my box from the PO and took out a few things and then shipped it Priority Mail to Franklin, NC. It took me about 15 minutes to get a ride back to the trailhead and I was back and hiking about 10:00 am. Met up with Dartman and also new hikers Brakeman and Grasshopper. I made it to the shelter around 1:00 pm. This shelter was a heavy lifting excercise by the Army 5th Ranger Training Battalion in 1992 where they flew the shelter into the site in one piece with large helicopter. I was joined at the shelter by Dave and Kat and also Jay (young man from NC hiking the trail before he goes to Boston College).

Day= 9 Muskrat Creek Shelter miles=7.3 / Total = 78.2 @ Muskrat Creek Shelter, United States, Georgia

2008-02-26T13:00:00.000Z

I made it to the shelter just after 1:00 pm. It was a cold rainy climb. Looking for clearing tonight and turning colder with chance of snow. Dave and Kat joined me at the shelter as well as Jay. Thru Hikers Brakeman and Grasshopper also came to make a full shelter at 6 hikers. The rain turned to snow for a total of 2-3 inches overnight. Snow blew in pretty bad and temperatures hit 15 F. Dave and Kat decided to call it quits and headed back for Hiawassee.

Day= 10 Carter Gap Shelter Miles=12.5 / Total= 90.7 @ Carter Gap Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-02-27T17:00:00.000Z

This was my first long hike in the snow. It was wet, slippery, and cold. My water bladder froze overnight at Muskrat Creek and I never could thaw it out. Jay decided to stay at Standing Indian Shelter and maybe take a side trail tomorrow through Standing Indian Campgrounds. Dartman came it around 6:00pm and Brakeman and Grasshopper tented on a flat spot near the shelter. My sleeping bag was damp from the snow blowing in the night before and I just about froze before it began to heat up. A tough lesson to learn.

Day= 11 Rock Gap Shelter Miles=12.1 / Total= 102.8 @ Rock Gap Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-02-28T15:00:00.000Z

Jon, It is still a long way down the mountain to the parking lot. I had tought of going on to Winding Stair Gap and hitching into Franklin tonight, but found Jay at the shelter and decided that it was a sign for me to stop. Dartman came in around 4:30 pm and also Brakeman and Grasshopper, who tented again next to the shelter. Temperatures were better and I did an early to bed so I will be ready to go by 8:00 am tomorrow to get to Franklin for a much needed stop over and hot shower. I dreamed all night about food, so I guess it is time for me to get to town.

Day= 12 Franklin, NC - Havens Budget Inn Miles=3.8 / Total= 106.6 @ Franklin, NC, United States, North Carolina

2008-02-29T08:45:00.000Z

Called Budget Inn and Ron Havens came and picked us up at Winding Stair Gap. It took just under 2 hours for me to make it over the mountain and to HY 64. Jay came with me and we waited for Dartman to get there before we left for town. Ron Havens was a Pro Wrestler and now shuttles hikers for free to and from the trail and around town. I am waiting for a trip to the Outfitters to get a few additional items tonigh before supper. We had Domino's Pizza and cold beer for lunch and then went and washed clothes. It feels good to be warm and dry.

Day= 13 Havens Budget Inn in Franklin, NC Mileage=0 / Total= 106.6 @ Franklin, NC, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-01T08:18:00.000Z

Got a good nights sleep and went to breakfast with Jay and did a little shopping at Ingles Grocery Store. Went back to the Post Office and my bounce box was there and I took out some food and maps and sent the box to Athens. Sent my SPOT and plan on going to McDonalds for lunch. Got to pack this afternoon and get ready to go to the trail Sunday Morning around 9:00 am.

Return to Trail from Franklin, NC @ Wayah Bald Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-02T02:09:00.000Z

Day 14 Sunday - Wayah Bald Shelter Miles= 12.0 Total= 118.6 @ Wayah Bald Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-02T17:00:00.000Z

Left the Budget Inn around 9:30 am and on the trail again at 10:00am. Hiking with Jay and Dartman and made it to the stone observation structure at Wayah Bald at 3:30pm after a long uphill climb with the last mile in snow and ice. Very nice view of the mountains and the area we had been hiking in for the past week. Hiked on down to the new shelter which had just been buillt last year. It was sunny and warm and had a nice night with no mice issues.

Day= 15 Monday, March 3rd - Wesser Bald Shelter - Miles= 9.6 Total= 128.2 @ Wesser Bald Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-03T16:00:00.000Z

Got going a little after 8:00am and had a nice hike to Wesser Bald Observation Platform where we stopped for phone calls and a beautiful view from the top of the mountain before going on down to the the shelter. Passed a group of about a dozen men from Ohio taking Spring Break by Hiking the AT Trail. Looked like University Students, but all men with no women. I guess the women went to the beach. It was another lovely day for hiking as we took a "Sun Nap" at Tellico Gap before climbing up to Wesser Bald. Sun Naps are great and will start becoming a standard part of our days when the opportunity avails itself. We got to the shelter with plenty of time to settle in before dark. I was suprised went a late arrival came in - Hammer with his little Jack Russel Terrier named Nails. Hammer is a high mileage walker doing 20+ mile days on a routine basis and plans on being in Maine in 4 months and then doing a YoYo and return as a Southbound Hiker. We told him we would see him on his way back and wished him God Speed.

Day= 16 Tuesday, March 4th NOC Miles= 5.6 Total= 133.8 @ NOC Bunk House, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-04T13:00:00.000Z

I already knew that this would be a rain day by watching the weather before I left Franklin, however, I was expecting the rain to start around midnight instead of 5:30am this morning. We slept in till around 8:30am and finally hit the trail in full rain gear at 9:30am for a long trip mostly downhill to the NOC where we are planning to stay the night in the bunkhouse and dry out. I got down about 1:00pm well before Jay and Dartman and checked in and put my stuff in the bunkhouse and took a hot shower before heading to the resturant for a 1/2 pound hamburger and nice salad with mushrooms and spinch. We had pizza and beer for dinner in the Common Room and some nice conversation with members of the Rafting Guide Class being held at the river here.

Day= 17 Wednesday, March 5th Tent Site at Locust Cove - Miles= 10.6 Total= 144.4 @ Locust Cove Gap, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-05T15:30:00.000Z

We didn't so very well getting out of the NOC as we had breakfast at the Rivers End Resturant and turned in our keys and checked out the local Outfitter Shop before finally leaving at 10:00am. The climb out of this gap is long and tough as we had to regain over 3000 feet in elevation over the next 6 miles. I have done this climb before and it was still very difficult with lots of slippery rock hazards toward the top and the top just never seemed to get there. Tough, tough, tough, but finally made it to Cheah Bald around 3:00pm for a glorius view and a much needed "Sun Break Nap". Spent about 30 minutes with Jay at Cheah Bald in the Sun and then pushed on to the campsite at Locust Cove Gap. I have been toting my tent since Hiawassee and this was the first time I needed to use it. It was a lovely night with bright Stars everywhere. I fixed a nice "bacon" sandwich for dinner and went to bed. Jay and Dartman are still walking with me, however, Dartman hikes his own hike and usually arrives about an hour later than Jay and myself.

Day= 18 Thursday, March 6th - Cable Gap Shelter Miles= 11.6 Total= 153.0 @ Cable Gap Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-06T16:00:00.000Z

Jay and I made it to Cable Gap Shelter around 4:00 pm after a hard downhill and a "Sun Nap" at the road crossing about 1 mile from the shelter. Sun Naps are so nice and really rejuvinate you after some hard hiking. Also, it is not always sunny on the mountain. Cable Gap Shelter is one of the old "Log Cabin" type shelter which had recently been renovated with a new roof and was clean and dry, though, the mice had stayed. My new Ursack kevlar Food Bag is working well and the mice though frustrated, have not been able to break into my food. I just hang it up from any nail or tie it to a tree and it is always there in the morning. Bag is also good against bears as long as they don't know how to untie a "square knot". A good night sleep with early to bed and bright starry sky.

Day= 19 Friday, March 7th Fontana Dam Shelter Miles= 6.6 Total= 162.6 @ Fontana Dam "Hilton" Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-07T11:30:00.000Z

So much for bright starry skies at night. I was expecting one more day of sunny skies to make the decent into Fontana Dam, but no, the rain hit around 5:00am and we saddled up in "rain gear" and headed down the mountain around 8:00am. Downhills are slippery when wet from rain and very haszardous. Jay and I started with a 2 mile uphill climb before we topped over and started the 4 mile downhill slid into Fontana. It is not always sunny and it doesn't rain every day - Hikers take it as it comes and keep putting one foot in front of the other and try not to fall down. We left Dartman behind and Jay and I hiked on down the mountain as Jon and Lance (sons of Piperhiker) were coming up to take me back to Athens for the weekend and Jay's mother and girlfriend were coming up to spend the weekend with him at local motel in Bryson City. I gave my extra fuel to Dartman and also one of my knee support bands as he was having some issues with his knee on the huge downhills. I will get another knee band this weekend in Athens along with more fuel. Jay has taken on the trail name of "MoJo" and it seemed to work as the rain lessen as we finished the hike into Fontana Dam. Jay has sort of become my hiking partner as I seem to inspire him and set just the right pace and determination. Jay is suppose to meet back up with me at Fontana Sunday Afternoon for the Start of the hike over the Smoky Mountains on Monday Morning. It was a "Glorius Sight" when Lance and Jon showed up around 1:00 pm to pick me up for the trip back to Athens. I was ready for a Break!!!!! We stopped at the McDonalds at Franklin, NC for a late lunch of Cheeseburgers, fries, and ice cream before continuing on to Athens. I am staying with Jon and Katherine. Lance came back over and we had chicken wings, strips and cold beer for supper. Sleep was not very easy for me as there was a lot on my mind about what supplies I needed to get and how could I improve my "Hiking Protocol" for rainy conditions.

Day=20, Visit Family in Athens, GA Miles= Zero Total= 162.6 @ Athens, GA, United States, Georgia

2008-03-08T12:00:00.000Z

I'm staying at Jon and Katherine's house in Athens for the weekend. Jon and I went out to the Post Office to get a flat rate priority box for me to mail some things home and just after we returned, SURPRISE!!!!, up drives my wife Laura. The boys had been keeping a secret about her coming up to see me. We had a wonderful day and went to the movies to see "10,000 BC" which was something I had been wanting to see. I also found out that one of my good friends in Arizona - Adam Stephenson, had passed away suddenly. Every since I left for the trail, folks I know have been dying, some were expected, but others were not. Still, I did get some good news as my wife told me that my friend Jim Hoover from Michigan was coming down to join me on the trail where he left off last year at the end of the Smokies. We will meet up either on the trail to Hot Springs or at Hot Springs. Jim wants to do the next leg to Damacus, Virigina.

Day=21 Sunday, March 9th Fontana Hilton Shelter Miles= Zero Total= 162.6 @ Fontana Dam, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-09T15:45:00.000Z

The surprise visit of Laura is over, We all went to late breakfast together, Lance, Jon, Katherine, Laura and myself and then I said good bye to my wife and she headed back to Bainbridge. Jon and Katherine gave me a ride back to Fontana Dam and then I had to say good bye to them. It was a "tearful" good bye as leaving family is getting harder and harder. I settled in alone in the shelter and thought about the days to come as I cross the Smoky Mountains. I was joined just before dark by Bier Rabbit who had just come from Springer in 8 days. He is a wiry sort of fellow about 40 years of age and he sold his Harley and got a leave of absense from his job to hike the trail. He said he almost froze from the Snow Storm that hit the mountains over the weekend while I was safe and warm in Athens.

Day= 22 Monday, March 10th Russell Field Shelter Miles= 13.8 Total= 176.4 @ Russell Field Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-10T13:00:00.000Z

On the Trail Again!!!! Jay "Mojo" met me at the dam and I got to meet his mother Jan. I loaded up with water and we started across the dam to begin the trail on the other side of the lake. Trails on mountains go two ways usually, up or down. I had just come down a couple of thousands feet in elevation to get to Fontana and now I had to go back up. I finally found out what my problem was with my right heel and shoe, but unfortunately, not before I had walked the four miles and climbed over 2000 feet back up to the top of Shuckstack. The back of the heels on the inside of my boots is breaking down and I have to pad my lower heel to make up for the loss. Once the tendon get sore, it takes some time for it to get better. Jay and I met some more thru hikers, but just briefly, as they seem to fly by, doing 20+ miles each day. We headed on to our Shelter at Russell Fields to cap a very long day. Russel Fields is still one of the older "Bear Cage" Shelters and yes, we had chain link fence and a gate. Met some hikers that had come up from Cades Cove and also some Spring Breakers from Baylor U.

Day= 23 Tuesday, March 11th Siler Bald Shelter Miles= 14.7 Total= 191.1 @ Siler Bald Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-11T13:30:00.000Z

Jay and I left out of Russell Field and flew the first 3 miles (one hour)to the next shelter Spence Field, where he emptied his pack looking for his knee support bands which he had forgotten to put on. We met up with the rest of the Baylor Boys on Spring Break and relax a bit before going on. This is where the problem started. Jay left his "dry bag" with his solar charger, spare cell phone battery and also his wallet. We didn't find this out till we were at the next shelter, another 12 miles away. If anybody knows anything about Jay's equipment and wallet, please contact him at 919-656-0265. It was a long, long hike to the shelter for me, but a good supper of potato soup and some sleep and I will be ready for some more.

Day=24 Wednesday, March12th Icewater Springs Shelter Miles= 15.5 Toptal= 206.6 @ Icewater Springs Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-12T19:00:00.000Z

Well, Jay headed back to Spence Field to see if his "dry bag" was still there and I headed for Clingmans Dome, the highest point on the Appalachian Trail. I reached Clingmans just before noon and found Dartman setting there. We enjoyed some lunch together and then headed down the mountain. I have hiked in Rain, Snow and Sunny Weather, however, I had never hiked on ice. For the next 3 miles, we had solid ice for a trail. The trail is deeply rutted here and the water run off had frozen and we had a terrrible time trying to walk downhill. I slipped and fell twice as your feet just move out from under you and down you go. I had read about this and now I can confirm that it does happen in the Smokies. I hit Newfound Gap at 5:00pm and after a 30 minute rest, started for Icewater Springs, 3 miles away. Well, you guessed it, the trail up the mountain was iced over also and it was a hard up and then more sliding going down into the next shelter. Still manage 2.0 miles per hour up the mountain, so I guess the legs are getting stronger. Met thru hikers Root, Dropkick and Treat at this shelter and Dartman came in about a hour later and said this was the toughest he had seen.

Day= 25 Thursday, March 13th Tri-Corner Knob Shelter Miles= 12.6 Total= 219.2 @ Tri-corner Knob Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-13T17:00:00.000Z

We got up to a wonderful sunrise as our shelter faced East and we started out for Charles Bunion, a picture spot just up the trail. I had a nice stop and met some more section hikers who were very interested in my learnings todate. I had a nice hike today with some stops in the sun and ended up at Tri-Corner Knob with Treat, Root, Dropkick and Dartman. Very nice shelter with water coming out of the hill next to the shelter. When I get to a shelter, the first thing I do is set my "SPOT" down and then go make my bed and get out the food bag and fix my supper. It was a good thing I did, as we had an additional 12 hiker show up to share out shelter with us 5 thru hikers. It was a noisy night, with all the snoring.

Day=26 Friday, March 14th I-40 Waterville Exit Miles= 17.6 Total= 236.8 @ Waterville Exit I-40, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-14T11:30:00.000Z

I got an early start and was up, had oatmeal for breakfast and hit the trail around 8:30 am. Skies were OK to start with and I found some more Icy Trails to slid up and down on but continue on. Rain blew in just before noon and I had to put on rain gear and keep hiking. Winds were gusting to 40 - 50 mph range on the mountain tops, but OK lower down. This was going to be the longest hiking day yet for me and I was going to be picked up by my good friend Tom Grove at I-40 and couldn't wait to see him and have a break in Knoxville. I hit the long downhill at 1:30 pm and started my quick descent and covered 5.3 miles in 2 hours. Tom was on time and we drove back to Knoxville in the rain. Piperhiker was happy to be riding in car in the rain instead of walking. Its good to get off the trail at the right time and spend some downtime with friends.

Knoxville, United States, Tennessee @ Knoxville, United States, Tennessee

2008-03-15T09:24:35.000Z

Day=28 Sunday, March 16th - GroundHog Creek Shelter - Miles 7.7 Total= 244.5 @ Groundhog Creek Shelter, United States, Tennessee

2008-03-16T17:27:00.000Z

Tom and I where up by 6:30am and away by 7:15am and heading to meet up with David Pickens to position cars at Hot Springs and then back to I-40 and the Ranger Station. We dropped Dave with the packs at the Staircase by I-40 and then went and dropped the car and walked the 2.2 miles back to meet Dave and our packs. It was a slow tough walk up the mountain as the elevation gain was over 2000 feet. We made it to Ground Hog Creek Shelter around 5:30pm and decided to tent as the shelter was a little old and mouse like. My pack was heavy with food and I had a lot of left shoulder pain, but otherwise was OK.

Day= 29 Monday, March 17th - Tent Site - Miles= 10.7 Total= 255.2 @ Roaring Fork Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-17T17:02:00.000Z

It was a nice hike today as we walked across Max Patch Bald and it was windy but beautiful. We met up with Mark Hipshire and now there was 4 of us. We hiked on to a tent site at Lemon Gap next to a creek and found plenty of firewood and a real bench with flat board on top. We had a fine meal and a nice fire and finally retired to our tents. My tent location was not the best as I kept rolling off my sleeping pad and finally had to push up next to my pack to keep me on my pad. It was funny siting there talking about Scouting as we all were either current or past Scout Leaders and 3 of us had taken boys to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. Tomorrow will bring the hike over Bluff Mountain.

Day= 30 Tuesday, March 18th - Deer Park Shelter - Miles= 12.3 Total= 267.5 @ Deer Park Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-18T17:37:00.000Z

Well, we made it over the top of Bluff Mountain and the wind was COLD!!! My water badder in my pack started leaking at the top of the mountain and I will have to replace it in Hot Springs. There was quite a crowd of us at Deer Park with some High School Students from Bearden in Knoxville. There was also some College Students on Spring Break from Ohio State and another thru-hiker Mike (Pachyderm) showed up also. Big party and we tented again. The high school students from Bearden were a blast as we had been hiking on and off with them for the past few days - good kids out having fun in the great outdoors. Hot Springs Tomorrow.

Day= 31 Wednesday, March 19th - Hot Springs, NC Miles=3.4 Total= 270.9 @ Elmers - Hot Springs, NC, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-19T11:00:00.000Z

We made it down to Hot Springs by 11:00am and I checked in with Elmers while the rest of the guys went to get their car. We visited Bluff Mountain Outfitters first and then went next door to Sweet Imagination and had lunch with ice cream before we parted company and I waved as they drove out of sight back to Max Patch to drop off Mark and then on to the ranger station at I-40 and Waterville Exit. The past 3 1/2 days were a blast and shows what good friends can mean to a lone thru-hiker. God does provide what we need!!!! Now I have Jim Hoover walking with me as he showed up at Elmers just after lunch and Dartman came in later this afternoon as the Rain Continues to Come Down. Library is closed on Wednesdays and will not open till 1:00pm on Thursday, so I am updating from the outfitters store. I also got a new water bladder and this time I got a CamelBak with a lifetime warranty. It has a good size screw lid versus my old "big zip" which caused problems when it iced over in the cold weather.

Elmers at Hot Springs, NC @ Elmers - Hot Springs, NC, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-19T20:25:45.000Z

Elmers is a very old Victorian Home that takes in Hikers for a reasonable fee and also has only vegitarian meals. One thing I have noticed is that there are a lot of hikers with knee pain on the trail. I have been recommending the elastic knee band and everyone has been very happy so far. A Big THANK YOU to Dr. Marzolf for helping me with my knee pain - still have left shoulder pain though.

Day=32 Thursday, March 20th Elmers@ Hot Springs, NC @ Elmers - Hot Springs, NC, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-20T10:44:14.000Z

We decided to take a Zero as the library did not open till 1:00pm for me to upload the pictures. Back to hiking tomorrow morning after breakfast. Next stop is Erwin, Tenn. - the only town known to have hung an Elephant.

Day= 33 Good Friday, March 21st Spring Mtn. Shelter Miles= 11.0 Total= 281.7 @ Spring Mountain Shelter, United States, Tennessee

2008-03-21T16:23:00.000Z

Ups seemed steep today and the miles long as we head for Spring Mtn. Shelter. Jim Hoover "Steps" is with me today and Dartman is bringing up the rear. Launch Pad is here ahead of us while we wait to cook the hotdogs till more or the gang show up. We finally give up and have a couple of dogs while we wait for Dartman. He comes in about dark and finishes off the pack of dogs. While we were on the way up, we stopped off at Rich Mtn. to take the side trail to the Observation Tower and boy was it steep. We finally reached the top and guess what??? Road crossing and people getting out of their cars and kids too. I walked 8 miles to see this and people just drove up in the cars - so much for wilderness sights.

Day= 34 Saturday, March 22nd Jerry Cabin Shelter Miles= 15.4 Total= 297.1 @ Jerry Cabin, United States, Tennessee

2008-03-22T18:29:00.000Z

This was a awesome day as we had some fantastic "Trail Magic" at Allen Gap where we encountered a sign that said take a right and go 300 yards up the road for waffles, sandwiches, and apples pie with ice cream. We went and met Hal and Hercules (Jody and John Nelson) who thu hiked in 1999. We enjoyed an 1 hour break from the trail and then headed on up. Its always up from a road crossing. We crossed over the tops of the Black Cliff Mtn.s and had the most wondrous mile of cliff walking along the top of the world and dangerous too. It was tough on the feet, but well worth the effort. Finally into camp and we have some Spring Break Boy Scouts and Leaders. Of Course, I had a great time discussing their trek and also found out that they had gone to Philmont Scout last year.

Day= 35 Easter Sunday, March 23rd Hogback Ridge Shelter Miles= 14.7 Total= 311.8 @ Hogback Ridge Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-23T11:29:00.000Z

Thats right, over 300 miles now!!! It has been a cold day, but fairly nice trail and when we arrived at the sign for the shelter, what do we see, but a sign for "Trail Magic" from "Hellbender", a 2007 Thru-Hiker. She and her boyfriend had packed in hotdogs, cookies, chinese food and Easter Candies. We had a ball and really enjoyed the surprise. It was windy and cold and I had to use my silk liner to keep my feet warm. Just after midnight, Dropkick and Treat found their way to our shelter, but the Inn was full, so they had to pitch their tent. We all woke to a cold morning with light snow.

Day= 36 Monday, March 24th Bald Mtn. Shelter Miles= 10.0 Total= 321.8 @ Bald Mountain Shelter, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-24T10:00:00.000Z

Well, it started snowing lightly when we pulled out of Hogback Shelter and headed for the road crossing at Sam's Gap. Snow got worse all day long and I had to put on my heavy gloves. My water bottle stayed froze in the hose all day and I passed a couple of nice hikers coming down from Bald Mtn. that gave me some water, as they were getting off the trail at Sam's Gap. Well I made it to the shelter after some "Beautiful" scenery on my hike up the mountain. The temperature never did get above freezing (shame on you weather person). We had a real treat as the shelter we were staying in was built in 1985 by the Carolina Hiking Club and we had the orighinal designer (David Allbach) staying the night with us. It was nice to be able to says thanks to those that help maintain the trail and shelters. It was a very cold night on the mountain and I had to use my silk bag liner and heavy socks to stay warm - still got a little cold around 6:00 am.

Day= 37 Tuesday, March 25th - Nolichucky River Miles= 16.9 Total= 338.7 @ Nolichucky River @ Erwin, Tenn, United States, Tennessee

2008-03-25T08:30:00.000Z

Well, It snowed all night, but we had a beautiful Sun Rise and after a quick breakfast of oatmeal and hot chocolate, I headed down the mountain. Steps got out first by about 30 minutes and I thought I was following him down the mountain, but he took a break in a open field next to the trail and I missed him and chased him the rest of the day thinking he was in front of me and I made it down to the Nolichucky River by 4:00pm (16.9 miles in 7.5 hours). We had decided previously, that we would got to the Holiday Inn which was an additional 1.3 mile walk. I checked in at the Holiday Inn at 4:30pm and to my surprise, No Steps. He was behind me, not in front of me. Also to my surprise, was the couple I had passed on the trail up to Bald Mt., were at the hotel and "Rainbow- 2006 Thru-hiker" gave me a ride back down to Uncle Johnny's to pick up Steps. Dartman was so lucky as we missed him when we went back to look for him and he didn't check his phone till he got to the motel. We are all safe and fed and doing laundy and kicking back.

Day= 38 Wednesday, March 26th Holiday Inn, Erwin, Tenn Miles= Zero @ Erwin, Tenn, United States, Tennessee

2008-03-26T14:12:00.000Z

Yes we are taking a Zero here at the Holiday Inn in Erwin, Tenn. A very nice hiker by the name of Rainbow gave us a ride to the grocery store today and also gave us there left over food as they had to cut their hike short. Just had lunch next door at Long John Silvers with all you can drink A&W Root Beer. Back to the mountain tomorrow morning.

Day=39 Thursday, March 27th Deep Gap Campsite - Miles=12.1 Total=350.8 @ Deep Gap - NC, United States, Tennessee

2008-03-27T14:16:00.000Z

It was a lovely day for hiking as we checked out of the Holiday Inn and then hiked 1.3 miles back down the road to the Nolichucky River Bridge to begin our hike again. Leaving Erwin was tough, but it was time to go. It is a very emotional day as I get closer to meeting up with family at Elk Park in a few days for some more days off. We took a break at Beauty Spot and met Roses and Brent from UGA. Nice to see some Bull Dogs on the Trail. We finally tented at Deep Gap Campsite to cook steak we brought up from Erwin. Nice campsite and nice night.

Day=40 Friday, March 28th Clyde Smith Shelter Miles=13.1 Total=363.9 @ Clyde Smith Shelter- NC, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-28T15:23:00.000Z

Beautiful hike up Unaka Mtn. Tough hike but it was beautiful when we went through the Spruce Forest at the top of the mountain. It was dark and scary but no dragons in sight. We had some light rain and then sunny skies at the shelter. As we were thinking about Roan Mtn. tomorrow, the rain came back and lasted on and off all night. So much for the weather forecast.

Day=41 Saturday, March 29th Overmoutain Shelter Miles=12.9 Tot=376.8 @ OverMountain Shelter- NC, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-29T16:31:00.000Z

Roan was a tough mountain as it was raining for most of the morning and then fogged in at the top of the mountain - couldn't see anything. I recieved a surprise visit from Sowega (Garrett Gossett) on the trail just prior to Stan Murry Shelter and he hiked on to OverMountain Shelter to spend the night with us. Cold and foggy at the shelter but only 9 miles tomorrow.

Day=42 Sunday, March 30th Highway 19E Miles=8.7 Total=385.5 @ Highway 19E Road Crossing, United States, Tennessee

2008-03-30T13:36:00.000Z

It was a very cold, cold, cold hike out of the shelter in the high winds and exposed trail. We hiked up and over both little Hump and Big Hump Mtn. and there was lots of ice but also lots of beautiful scenry. Sowega hiked all the way to the road crossing at 19E and then we loaded up everyone and brought them back to the Condo here in Banner Elk. It sure was nice to see family again (Spring Break in the Mtn.s).

Day=43 Monday, March 31 - Condo at Blue Ridge Village "ZERO" Tot=385.5 @ Conco @ Banner Elk, United States, North Carolina

2008-03-31T13:20:00.000Z

Well, we got up this morning and fixed a mighty fine breakfast of bacon, eggs, sausage, biscuits and sausage gravy. Steps, Dartman and myself then drove to the outfitters in Johnson City for some additional gear and a stop at Walmart on the way back for food run. I dropped Steps and Dartman off at the trail just after 1:00PM for them to start hiking again and I went back to the condo to spend some more family time. It has been a fun day with a stop for Gem Mining and then a drive to Boone and a fine dinner family style at Daniel Boone Family Inn.

Day= 44 Tuesday, April 1st Condo at Banner Elk Miles= Zero @ Conco @ Banner Elk, United States, North Carolina

2008-04-01T09:51:00.000Z

It was a very beautiful day at last here in Banner Elk with Sunny Blue Skies. We all loaded up and went to see Grandfather Mountain and had a great time. We even went on the Mile High Suspension Bridge, everyone except Laura. Grant even climbed up on the rocks on the other side with PaPa after we went across the bridge. Its back to the mountain for Piperhiker tomorrow as he resumes his hike with Damascus, Va. as his destination for this Sunday. It has been wonderful having my wife and family here for this break from the trail and also my sister Joy and here husband Jim. I will definitely miss everyone.

Day=45 Wednesday, April 2 Return to the trail at 19E @ Trail Crossing at 19E, United States, Tennessee

2008-04-02T11:00:00.000Z

Time to get back to hiking - Laura dropped me off at 11:00am and after lots of tears, I'm off to the shelter.

Day+45 Wednesday, April 2nd Mountaineer Shelter, Miles=8.7 Tot=394.2 @ Mountaineer Shelter, United States, Tennessee

2008-04-02T15:57:00.000Z

Well, after Laura dropped me off, I hiked to the new Mountaineer Shelter that Dartman helped build in 2006. This was a very nice shelter and I had a night by myself. Leaving family is probably the toughest thing I do on the trail, but the hike goes on. Georgia and North Carolina are done and will pass 400 mile mark tomorrow.

Day=46 Thursday, April 3rd Kincora Hostel Miles=15.1 Tot=409.3 @ Kincora Hostel, United States, Tennessee

2008-04-03T15:33:00.000Z

Kincora Hostel is run by Bob Peoples and is one of the "Must" stop places on the trail. The morning started with rain at 3:00 am and it rained on and off for most of the day. The hike was fairly easy till the final down and I had a lot of pain on both knees. I did run up with one of my early hiking buddies " Willie Boy" at the hostel. It was nice to talk with someone from the first week back in Georgia.

Day=47 Friday, April 4th Vandeventer Shelter Miles= 17.5 Tot= 426.8 @ Vandeventer Shelter, United States, Tennessee

2008-04-04T16:11:00.000Z

Well, we got out of Kincora fairly early and on the trail by 7:30 am and saw the very beautiful Laurel Falls. After this, it was up the mountain, a very tough climb of over 2000 feet and the last 500 feet being straight up a ridge. Very tough, but then a nice down into Watuga Lake. After the lake, we had some "PUD's" Pointless Ups and Downs. I'm not one to complain, but there was a section of mountain just before the Iron Mtn. Gap that could easily have been reached by continuing just around the corner on the road you had just been walking on from crossing the Dam - wasted up and down. The shelter was nice, as it overlooked the north end of the lake, but fog rolled in and it rained again.

Day=48 Saturday, April 5th Abingdon Shelter Miles=22.7 Tot=449.5 @ Abingdon Gap Shelter, United States, Tennessee

2008-04-06T10:16:00.000Z

Thats right, it was a long tough day to say the least. This is my first 20+ day hiking ever. The terrain was fairly nice and it took me 10 hours to make the hike to the shelter, with the rain starting in the last 30 minutes. I had a nice young couple staying with me at the shelter and it was the first hiking experience for her, but the young man had gone to Philmont and was an Eagle Scout. Just as he got the fire going nicely, the rain really came down and we all went to bed. Damascus Tomorrow.

Day=49 Sunday, April 6th Damascus, Va. Miles= 10 Total= 459.5 @ Damascus, Va., United States, Virginia

2008-04-06T11:04:00.000Z

Well, it was early up and out by 7:40 am and then on to Damascus. I crossed the state line at 10:00 am and have officially finished 3 states now, but will be in Virginia for the next 5 - 6 weeks. I'm staying at "The Place" which is a hostel run by the United Methodist Church of Damascus. "Hats off to the Methodist" and a big Thank You. I had a nice lunch at "Dots" and then a hot bath and got my clothes washed and dried. Still have to do the grocery shopping. My thanks to "Sundog Outfitters" for letting me use their computer.

One of the things I haven't talked about very much, is how the Trail has effected me Emotionally. I find myself experiencing periods of crying brought on by nothing more than a thought. I feel very close to God while on the trail and spend countless hours in discussion about worldly things. I find beauty everywhere, in the rain, the fog, the freezing weather and very much so in a beautiful sunrise and sunset and also the rising of the moon. Leaving family is tough, but the trail family compensates and I hike on. I can see how the trail can get into your blood.

Damascus, Va., United States, Virginia @ Damascus, Va., United States, Virginia

2008-04-06T20:36:01.000Z

Day= 50 Hassinger Memorial Bridge-Tent Site Miles=13.9 Tot=473.4 @ Hassinger Memorial Bridge, United States, Virginia

2008-04-07T12:07:00.000Z

It was a tough day leaving Damacus with heavy packs. We shared a foot long Sub at the side trail to Sanders Shelter before pushing pn to tent by a stream instead of climbing the mountain to get to Lost Mtn. Shelter. The site by the stream was very beautiful and the sounds of the rushing waters was very peaceful.

Day=51 Tuesday, April 8th - Thomas Knob Shelter Miles=14.1 Tot=487.5 @ Thomas Knob Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-08T12:09:00.000Z

It was a beautiful day with sunny skies, but the hiking was rough as we went around Mt. Rogers to get to the other side and be in position to cross into Grayson Highlands and the Ponies. Willie Boy caught up and along with "Pick" another hiker, we had three (3) hikers with "SPOT" satellite systems at one shelter. Tonigh we sleep and tomorrow, we see the ponies.

Day=52 Wednesday, April 9th - Hurricane Shelter Miles=14.9 Tot=502.4 @ Hurricane Mountain Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-09T12:53:00.000Z

Thats right, I crossed the 500 mile mark today. The day was beautiful for hiking , but the terrain thru the Grayson Highlands was very rough and rocky. Lots of chances to twist ankles and knees. We saw lots of ponies including a mother and foal. The foal was a paint and about 6 weeks old. The mother and foal stayed away, but the other ponies came right up to get treats. We hiked on to Hurricane Shelter where I met my first single woman hiking solo on the trail. Her name is EM and she is finishing up her 2007 hike which she cut short last year.

Day=53 Thursday, April 10th - Partnership Shelter Miles= 20.8 Tot=523.2 @ Partnership Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-10T12:29:00.000Z

We left the shelter at 7:00am for a long day of hiking and made the next shelter at 5:00pm. It was a sunny day, but hard on the feet. We order pizza in from the phone at the Mt. Rogers Headquarters building. It was good but expensive. Steps is getting off tomorrow and going back to Michigan. We will miss him.

Day=54, Friday, April 11th - Relax Inn at I-81 Miles= 11.6 Tot=534.8 @ Atkins, VA, United States, Virginia

2008-04-11T13:15:00.000Z

I said "Good Bye" to Steps at 8:00 am this morning as he waited for a ride to the bus station. I then turned and headed on up the trail to the Relax Inn and our next stop. We had a great meal at the Red Barn Restraunt with Neck Beard and Night Terror and then settled in for the night in our motel room. The room was not much, but it sufficed and we beded down before starting new adventures tomorrow.

Day=55 , Saturday, April 12th - Knot Maul Shelter Miles=13.9 Tot=548.7 @ Knot Maul Branch Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-12T12:32:05.000Z

After breakfast at the Red Barn, we headed under I-81 to the trail head and to my surprise, was greated by my good friend Wayne Chapman, who was waiting at the trail head to say Hi. This is a great way to start a new day. We said our good byes and hope to see each other again at Pearisbury next weekend. On the trail again and what do we see at the Middle Fork of the Holston River, but a feild of "Ramps", wild onions. There must of been at least a thousand plants - tough on Dartman to decide which ones to dig up. The hike was tough today due to all the fence ladders we had to climb up and down as the trail went thru a lot of private property. My little toe on the right foot also developed a blister and was painful to walk on. We incountered a second batch of ramps on the North Fork of the Holston River and I took pictures this time.

Day=56 , Sunday, April 13th - Jenkins Shelter Miles= 19.0 Tot= 567.7 @ Jenkins Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-13T12:32:50.000Z

This was a very, very tough day. Climbing up the mountains was not too bad, but the Ridge walk along the East Side of Burkes Garden (GOD's Thumbprint) was extremely tough on my feet and knees. I finally made it to the shelter about 7:00 pm after sleet and snow for most of the afternoon. We ended up with a full shelter after Dartman came in, but made room for all. We also found a new family for "Jenny", a dog that took up with us after the last shelter. A nice couple going South Bound is taking her.

Day= 57 , Monday, April 14th - Helveys Mill Shelter Miles=13.8 Tot= 581.5 @ Healveys Mill Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-14T09:00:27.000Z

It was a very nice hike today with some Church Trail Magic at the road crossing. A nice ride to the New Hope Union Church which was nearby and a deliteful breakfast with a singing Pastor. Thank You Paster Alan Ashworth and your congreation for what you do for Hikers. Hiking on a full belly is not easy, but we managed it.

Day= 58 , Tuesday, April 15th Hy Va 606 - Trent's Store Miles=16.3 Tot= 597.8 @ Trents Country Store, United States, Virginia

2008-04-15T12:29:51.000Z

A nice day to hike - cool and sunny weather. We finished at the Hy 606 road crossing and headed left to Trent's Store for some supper and a tent spot in their little camp ground. We had BBQ Chicken and fixings and then set up tents and had a hot shower. I am beginning to see signs of spring in the mountains as there are buds on some of the bushes and trees. Spring has already come to the valley.

Day= 59 , Wednesday, April 16th - Doc's Knob Shelter Miles=16.1 Tot=613.9 @ Doc's Knob Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-16T11:33:42.000Z

It was a long hard day again, particularly the last 5 miles which was walking on loose boulders and rocks. The day started well with sausage and egg biscuits at Trents Store, and had a nice mid day lunch stop at Wapati Shelter to dry out our tents and get resupplied with water, but kind of went downhill after that. The climb up to get back on the ridge was tough 2000 feet, but that is just normal now. It was a long walk on the ridge and then lots of ankle twisting action on the rocks for the last 4 miles of the evening to get to the shelter. I finished off most of what was in my food bag for supper as tomorrow will bring the walk into Pearisbury. I am also over 600 miles now.

Day=60 , Thursday, April 17th Pearisbury Church Hostel Miles= 8.2 Tot= 622.1 @ Catholic Church Hostel, United States, Virginia

2008-04-17T10:41:57.000Z

It was a beautiful sunny day for the hike across the ridge and down into Pearisbury. There were some great views from the ridge overlooking the valley and a very tough down with steep trail into town. I tripped over a vine on the trail and went flying and hit hard, laying flat out on my left side. I was lucky that the trail was only dirt at this point and didn't get hurt, but I couldn't get up to start with as I was laying downhill and didn't have to strength to push myself up. I did manage and went on down the trail into town. It was a long walk uphill to the main part of town and my first stop was at Hardees for a 1/2 pound burger and sweet tea. Yes, I let them put the mayo on but left off the cheese. I finally made it to the hostel around 1:00 pm and went to Walmart to get a few things for later. I had a phone message and found out that Wayne Chapman and his wife Vicki are coming over tomorrow to see us.

Day=61 - Friday, April 18th - Church Hostel in Pearisbury, Miles=Zero, Tot=622.1 @ Catholic Church Hostel, United States, Virginia

2008-04-18T07:25:31.000Z

I started the day early with Cheese Eggs, Bacon and Toast in the kitchen and then I was off on a long walk to the Post Office to mail home some gear and then on to the Library where it took over 3 hours to update 2 weeks worth of journal and pictures. Wayne and Vicki showed up around 3:30 pm and after a nice visit, we all went to a little Mexican Dinner over by Walmart for Dinner and more talking.

Day=62 - Saturday, April 19th - Pearisbury Church Hostel, Miles=Zero Total=622.1 @ Pearisburg, VA, United States, Virginia

2008-04-19T07:45:44.000Z

A great morning and a second zero here in Pearisbury. Wayne and Vicki showed up at 9:00am and dropped me at the library and took Dartman to the Post Office. Everyone came back to the library and when we had finished, we went to Walmart for Dartman to shop and then to Pizza Hut for a great lunch ( Thanks again Wayne and Vicki for everything). It rained the rest of the afternoon as we watched from the shelter of the Hostel. I hope it gets done before we hike out Sunday Morning.

Day=63 - Sunday, April 20th - Pine Swamp Branch Shelter - Miles= 19.0 Total=641.1 @ Pine Swamp Branch Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-20T12:54:31.000Z

An extremely tough day as we left town heavy with food and also in the rain. The rain stopped after a couple of hours and the sun came out and we hiked on. Made it to the shelter around 8:00pm after a long day that started at 6:30 am as we left the hostel and hiked back down 2 miles to the trail. This shelter had no roof as the old roof was destroyed by a tree and had not been put back on yet. Yes it rained during the night. Not a good start for this week.

Day=64 - Monday, April 21st - War Spur Shelter Miles=12.7 Total=653.8 @ War Spur Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-21T14:36:51.000Z

It rained overnight and for the first part of the morning. It was a miserable start for the day and we had a cold stream crossing to do as the hiker bridge is out and has not been replaced. This was a much shorter hiking day, but still a lot of tough walking on rocks and boulders. The sun did finally come out in the late afternoon and we got most of our gear dried out and the shelter was nice with a creek water source right close by.

Day=65 - Tueaday, April 22nd Sarver Hollow Shelter - Miles= 12.2 Total= 666.0 @ Sarver Hollow Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-22T14:12:04.000Z

Well, it was a rainy mist to start the morning and it never got any better. I had a nice walk once I got back to the top of the ridge as the rocks disappeared and the walking got easy and then down to civilization and walking thru cow pastures (13 fence crossing). It was a tough up to get back on the final ridge for tonight, but nice walking when I finally did. The shelter at Sarver Hollow was down off the trail, but a beautiful shelter once you got there.

Day=66 - Wednesday, Spril 23rd - Trout Creek Tent Site - Miles=14.9 Total-680.9 @ Trout Creek Tent Site, United States, Virginia

2008-04-23T12:52:20.000Z

The day started well with sunshine for the first time in several days. Unfortunately, things went downhill after about 3 miles on the ridge as Dartman slipped doing a horizontal boulder traverse and twisted his left knee. It took us several hours to finish the ridge and get down to the NiDay Shelter. Along the way, some hikers gave us a full elastic knee brace and this helped some. I left Dartman at the shelter and continued on to the next ridge and on to Trout Creek. I had a funny feeling that Dartman might show up and sure enough, he came in about 1 hour later after I had set up camp right next to the trail. The knee still hurts but he is walking on it.

Day=67 - Thursday, April 24th - Johns Spring Shelter - Miles= 14.6 Total=695.5 @ Johns Spring Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-24T12:13:46.000Z

Good day for hiking but tough coming down from Dragon Tooth. There was lots of boulders, rocks and just plain drops of several feet, but made it safely down. I took a break by a road and got water out of the ditch for a lunch break. I still had to go thru more cow pastures and up onto another ridge to get to Catawba. I finished and came off the ridge to the parking lot at Hy311 at 3:30pm and caught a ride into Catawba and the Homplace for dinner. Food was great and sure enough, Dartman showed up at 6:00pm just as I was trying to get a ride back to the trail. I had gotten a phone message that my wife's cousin Phil was driving down but traffic delayed him meeting me for dinner. He only made it as far as Lexington and will not be able to make the walk to McAfee Knob with me tomorrow. Pray for sunshine and clear skies for tomorrow.

Day= 68 - Friday, April 25th - Howard Johnson Express - Miles=18.8 Total=714.3 @ Howard Johnsons Express, United States, Virginia

2008-04-25T17:23:15.000Z

The morning started with beautiful clear skies and the hike to McAfee Knob was a delite and the view outstanding. After Pictures, we headed on to Tinker Cliffs about 5 miles away. The walk was a tough climb as we went back down quite a bit and then had to go back up another mountain. The view of the valley at noon was a sight to see. I looked for the mother bear and her cubs that were in the area yesterday, but no luck and started down for the 10 mile walk into town. The rain caught up with me just before I hit town and I also slipped on a muddy spot and got my pants dirty. Laundry time tonight. Just as I got off the trail and turned to the right and started for the motel, Cousin Phil drove up and surprised me. We had a great time talking and went across the street to the Mexican Resturant and waited for Dartman to get down. A great meal was enjoyed and some well earned rest.

Day=69 - Saturday, April 26th - Howard Johnsons Express - Miles=zero Total=714.3 @ Howard Johnsons Express, United States, Virginia

2008-04-26T12:34:34.000Z

The sun came out this morning and we had a delightful day with Phil. Went to the outfitters to get new tips for Dartman's hiking poles and then grocery resupply. After a nice lunch of Subway, Phil left to see his high school friend over in Reston, Va. Dartman and I are trying to finish up our packing and go get what ever we are missing before we head out tomorrow morning.

Day=70 Sunday, April 27th Wilson Creek Shelter Miles=11.2 Tot=725.5 @ Wilson Creek Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-27T13:53:09.000Z

Nice Day for Hiking as we left the Motel and started up the trail. Food Bag is heavy, but the trail is real nice. Took lunch break at Fullhardt Knob Shelter and finished at the shelter at 2:45pm for an early end to the first day out of town. I have added Vit "C" per Phil and hope this helps with the afternoon blaa's

Day=71 Monday, April 28th Cove Mtn. Shelter Miles= 13.7 Total=739.2 @ Cove Mtn. Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-28T12:16:39.000Z

We hiked in the rain for most of the day. Canceled plans to tent at the creek due to the prospect for more rain tonight. My feet took a pretty good beating due to the wet walking today. We will have to do a 17 miler tomorrow to get back on track.

Day=72 Tuesday, April 29th Thunder Hill Shelter @ Thunder Hill Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-29T12:40:56.000Z

We got an early start this morning at 7:00 am and had a lot of ups an downs. Tomorrow will be a short day as we only need to go about 12 miles. The day was cold and breezy and it required you to keep moving to keep warm. The climb up Apple Orchard Mtn. was difficult but the FAA Radar Dome made up for it. Ha Ha We did find some trail magic at the shelter from some can sodas left by a previous thru hiker.

Day=73 Wednesday, April 30th Matts Creek Shelter Miles=12.4 Total=768.8 @ Matts Creek Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-04-30T13:42:08.000Z

Oh what a beautiful day to hike with clear and sunny skies all day. I had some small sharp ups but no problems till the long down of several miles to the shelter. I started having pain in the toe next to the big toe (longest toe and gets jambed into the end of the shoe). I will switch to my other insoles tomorrow and see what happens. This shelter site was very nice with a cold creek in front to soak your feet in. Tomorrow Dartman and I will hitch into Glasgow for some resupply and also some lunch at the diner and then on to Rockfish Gap and Waynesboro over the next few days.

Day=74 Thursday, May 1st Johns Hollow Shelter Miles=3.9 Total=772.7 @ Johns Hollow Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-05-01T13:36:43.000Z

Dartman and I went into Glasgow for resupply. We tried to hitch from the trail head but no luck and started the 6 mile walk into town. We made it almost to town when a truck with a motorcylcle in the back stopped and gave us a lift into town. Our first stop was the Dollar General and then over to the only restruant in town for an early lunch. We met a couple of older gentlemen (Father and Son) and had a nice conversation about the trail and our hike. We we were hiking out to the outskirts of town, the younger of the two was waiting for us and gave us a ride back to the trail head ( Thank You God for Trail Angles). We met up with the Twisted Sisters and others and decided to do hotdogs at the campsite tonight. We had a blast with about 10 hikers all eating hotdogs and smores. Nice way to end the day.

Day=75 Friday, May 2nd Brown Mtn. Shelter Miles= 18.3 Total= 791.0 @ Brown Mountain Creek Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-05-02T13:46:18.000Z

Early start again today and on the trail by 7:00 am. Hit the shelter by 4:45 pm. It was not too tough of a day, but all I wanted !!!! Interesting History that the Brown Mtn. Creek that the shelter was next to was once a settlement of Freed Slaves till it disbanded in the 1920's. The only thing left is a couple of plaques and some stacked stones that look like some sort of early attempt at flood control along the creek.

Day= 76 Saturday, May3rd Seely Woodworth Shelter Miles= 15.8 Total= 806.8 @ Seeley-Woodworth Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-05-03T13:44:04.000Z

Early start and a 2700 foot elevation change in the first 4 miles with most of it in a 2 mile section and it was straight up the ridge line with very few switchbacks. There were several more ups and downs during the day, but I am now over the 800 mile mark. The top of Cold Mtn. was a beautiful green meadow and I had to lie down and enjoy the sun for a while before continuing the hike. I have now developed a sore spot on my back hip bone and am using one of my T-Shirts to cushion the area from my pack - seems to be working OK.

Day= 77 Sunday, May 4th Harpers Creek Shelter Miles= 14.3 Total= 821.1 @ Harpers Creek Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-05-04T13:55:56.000Z

We bypassed the chance at the Dutch Haus B&B in Montebello and Hiked on up the Priest Mtn. and down the other side. While the up was not too bad, the down was sharp and tough on the feet as the toes suffer a lot when they get jambed into the end of the shoes. We crossed the Tye River and begin going back up to get onto another ridgeline before dropping down to the shelter. While the shelter was the standard lean-to for Virginia, the location with a cold stream just in front of the shelter was a welcomed site and felt good on the tired feet.

Day= 78 Monday, May 5th Paul C. Wolfe Shelter Miles=22.0 Total= 843.1 @ Paul C. Wolfe Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-05-05T13:03:21.000Z

This was our earliest start yet on the trail as we were on the trail hiking by 6:15 am and had a long hard climb up to the top of Three Ridges Mtn. and it sure was a rocky climb, but only took about 2 hours. Now all we had to do was go down the back side as mountains always have a up and down side to them. The hike was not too bad till we hit the trail along side the Blue Ridge Parkway where there was nothing but rock rubble left over from the building of the parkway. Tough to walk on but still part of the trail. The view from Cedar Cliffs was awesome of the Virginia Countryside and required some resting time before continuing on. I had some unneeded "PUDS" around the HumpBack Mtn. Area, but I made it safely thru and Hiked on!! Thank You God for an Lovely and Safe Day of Hiking as I hit the shelter at 6:30 pm after 12 hours of hiking.

Day=79 Tuesday, May 6th Quality Inn - Waynesboro, Va. Miles=5.0 Total=848.1 @ Waynesboro, Virginia, United States, Virginia

2008-05-06T10:28:43.000Z

Well, we made it down off the mountain this morning to RockFish Gap and got a ride from a "Trail Angel" to town and right to the motel. After check-in, we had a shower and went to the laundry. Clean clothes and clean body are necessary after 10 days on the trail and it sure was welcomed. We had pizza for lunch and then I headed to the library where I spent 2 hours on their internet without getting much done on my updates. We had dinner with "Gnome", a friend of Dartman's and a thru-hiker and my son Lance showed up before we finished and joined us. We then went back to the motel and I am finishing my updates using Lance's laptop. We will "Zero" tomorrow and then hit the trail again thru the Shenandoha's and onward to Harpers Ferry and the ATC Headquarters.

Day= 80 Wednesday, May 7th Waynesboro, Va Miles= 0 Total= 848.1 @ Bear Den Mtn., United States, Virginia

2008-05-07T13:58:54.000Z

Hikers still get up at daylight even when they are in town and today was no exception. We were up and eating breakfast in the motel lobby before 6:30 am and reading the paper. Lance slept in a little longer and then we went to the Outfitters at 10:00 AM to get my hiking poles repaired and also to buy new socks and some Deet for insects control. Dartman and I then had Lance drops us at the Walmart so we could do our resupply shopping and he went back to the motel to get some of his computer work finished. We then did the all-you-can-eat buffet at KFC close to the mall. The afternoon was spent chilling with Lance and then we did a cook out at the YMCA Campground with some other hikers and now we are finishing packing and getting ready for bed. Back on the trail tomorrow morning. Thank You Lance for coming up and visiting.

Day=81 Thursday, May 8th Calf Mtn. Shelter Miles=7.0 Total=855.1 @ Calf Mountain Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-05-08T11:52:55.000Z

Short Day today with Breakfast with Lance at Weizes and then on to the trail head at Rockfish Gap, where we said goodbye to Lance and headed across the road to the beginning of the Shenandoah's. After a short hike, we are at the Information Board and we fill out our Park Permits. Dartman goes down a side trail for water and does something to his back, so instead of a 20 mile day, we only go 7 miles to the first shelter. We do see our first poisonous snake on the trail ( baby copperhead) - no pictures as the snake escaped into the rocks before I could get a picture. Willie Boy showed up and stayed with us. We also got a late arrival from a lady (Prietta)from Quebec who is trying to finish her hike from a couple years back.

Day=82 Friday, May 9th Blackrock Hut Shelter Miles=13.0 Total=868.1 @ Blackrock Hut, United States, Virginia

2008-05-09T14:13:16.000Z

We made it to the next shelter around 1:45pm after a long morning spent walking in a heavy fog (mist) that was just like a lite rain. We decided to stay at this shelter and start our 20's tomorrow as Dartman's back and knee are still bothering him. A "Ridge Runner" - Midnight, came in and spent the night with us and was a good source of info about the trail and food stops in the Park.

Day=83 Saturday, May 10th Hightop Mtn. Hut Miles=21.4 Total= 889.5 @ Hightop Hut, United States, Virginia

2008-05-10T13:14:28.000Z

Well, we made our first 20+ day in the Park and we also stopped at a Wayside for Lunch. The food was good but pricey and it was a long walk down from the trail to get to the Wayside. We finally made it to the Shelter around 7:00pm and while it was crowded due to the weekend, there was room for Dartman and myself. This was the first day we saw some sun in the Park and it sure was nice. I have been putting Dartman in the front while we are hiking in order for us to stay together thru the Shenandoah's. Its working, but still a little slow.

Day= 84 Sunday, May 11th Bearfence Mtn. Hut Miles= 12.4 Total= 901.9 @ Bearfence Mountain Hut, United States, Virginia

2008-05-11T12:54:02.000Z

Well it was a short day today due to the fog and rain. We had a nice stop at the Camp Store which is only 0.9 miles from the shelter. Lots of people here at the shelter and bad, bad weather is due tonight. We have decided to stay and see how tomorrow turns out. Willie Boy had been hiking with us, but got ahead and we have lost track of him. Lots of hikers coming in to the shelter late, but no room in the inn and they had to set up their tents in the rain. Shelters are nice when it is raining.

Day= 85 Monday, May 12th Rock Spring Hut Miles= 11.5 Total= 913.4 @ Rock Spring Hut, United States, Virginia

2008-05-12T14:58:44.000Z

It rained overnight and we left a little late from the shelter. We hiked in snow and sleet and finally made it to Big Meadows Lodge for a Lunch Stop. Dartman will be leaving for Trail Days and I decided to treat him to a nice lunch while the sleet and snow fell outside. It sure was nice to set inside at a warm table and watch the bad weather going on outside. Night Terror and Treat showed up as we were getting ready to leave, but I found out that Treat's website is www.thehikinghugger.com. I haven't tried it yet, but supposely, there is a link to a story about his hugging President Bush.

Day= 86 Tueaday, May 13th Pass Mtn. Hut Miles= 15.3 Total= 928.7 @ Pass Mountain Hut, United States, Virginia

2008-05-13T13:58:44.000Z

A very nice day for hiking as it was Sunny and Cool, something we have not seen much of here in the Shenandoah's. We had some pretty views and saw plenty of deer and did see a Bear Cub, but was not quick enough to get a picture before it went over the side of the mountain. We had a nice group of hikers at this hut and I got to met some that I did not know who have caught up with me. I will get an early start tomorrow as I want to hit the wayside for breakfast and then on to Exit the Park - long day but time to move on to Harpers Ferry.

Day= 87 Wednesday, May 14th Tom Floyd Wayside Miles= 23.6 Total= 952.3 @ Tom Floyd Wayside Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-05-14T13:42:49.000Z

Well, I was up early and said goodbye to Dartman as he is headed back down the mountain to catch a ride to Trail Days and I am hiking to the Elk Wallow Wayside for breakfast. The food was great and I took about an hour break before heading on to the end of the Park. I saw a bear paw print on the trail and stopped to take a picture. I made it to the shelter around 5:30 pm and Why??? it is named a wayside instead of a hut or shelter is beyond me. Water was a long way down to the spring, but I settled in with two hikers I met at the Pass Mtn. Hut ( Q and Burro). I have noticed that my hiking speed and distance have gone up since I am hiking by myself again.

Day= 88 Thursday, May 15th Rod Hollow Shelter Miles= 26.4 Total= 978.7 @ Rod Hollow Shelter, United States, Virginia

2008-05-15T13:52:36.000Z

Well it was decision time today as I either do an 18 miler or a 26 miler so I will be at the start of the Virginia "Roller Coaster" and fresher for all the climbing. I decided to go for the 26 mile day and did very well till the last 4 miles when the trail became a creek and then there was all the additional stream crossing. I finally made it to the shelter about 6:45 pm and after fixing some supper, collapsed into bed along with the only other hiker there (Burro). Shoes were wet, but should dry out by tomorrow morning and I have a clean pair of socks and only 10 miles to go to Bear's Den Hostel.

Day= 89 Friday, May 16th Bear's Den Hostel Miles= 9.9 Total= 988.6 @ Bears Den Hostel, United States, Virginia

2008-05-16T12:37:21.000Z

I hit the Virginia Roller Coaster shortly after leaving the Shelter and "Up and Away I went". I did 8 ups on the way to the Hostel and still have 3 more ups to do tomorrow on the way to Harpers Ferry and the ATC Office. The hostel has been nice today and while the computer connection is slow, I have at least gotten the written part of my journey updated. This section of trail has been very difficult as the ups and stream crossing have taken a toll on me today. Going a 26 miler yesterday was a good decision as I would not have wanted to hit the Roller Coaster late in the day. Rest tonight and clean clothes and then The ATC Office tomorrow and some time off. I don't know what I will do for a room as the hotels are full for Saturday Night.

Day= 90 Saturday, May17th Harpers Ferry Miles= 20.5 Total= 1009.1 @ Harpers Ferry ATC Office, United States, West Virginia

2008-05-17T10:52:57.000Z

I woke up sick at the hostel, but after 5 trips to the bathroom, decided to hike on out and get to town and the ATC Office. It was a tough day, but made it to the ATC Office at 4:30pm just after they had closed. Saw the Four Sisters again as they had gotten their mail drop here at the ATC. I finally got a room at the Quality Inn and then headed up the hill to the Inn. 80 miles in the past 4 days has taken its toll and I need some rest. I decided to try the Buffet at the hotel and found out that it was not a good idea as I ended up going at both ends before the night was over.

Day=91 Sunday, May 18th Harpers Ferry - Motel Miles=Zero Total=1009.1 @ Harpers Ferry, United States, West Virginia

2008-05-18T13:24:40.000Z

Well, I got signed in at the ATC Office and had my picture taken and got my number (94), which is the number of hikers that have come thru so far this year. I went down the street to the outfitters and got some food for the next three days till I get to US 30 and get off to wait for my oldest Son and his wife (Richard and Estie) to come and pick me up for a weekend off. I got my food and then walked in the rain back to the Comfort Motel and spent the rest of the day in bed as I still haven't recovered from whatever virus I have. I hike back out Monday and head for Maryland. Stats so far are: 41 days to make it thru Virginia (544 miles) where many enter and only a few emerge at the other end of the state. My hiking speed was 13.2 miles per day (including my zeros ) and this compares to my overall hiking speed of 11.2 miles per day for the entire trek so far with 15 zero days included.

Day=92 Monday, May 19th Rocky Run Shelter Miles=15.5 Total=1024.6 @ Rocky Run Shelter, United States, Maryland

2008-05-19T13:36:03.000Z

I was still not feeling the best, but had a little bit of breakfast at the motel and hiked out anyway. I felt sluggish, but made the 15 miles OK and met up with "Traveler", a thru hiker that started a little bit earlier than I did and is 62 years old and wears a "UGA Cap". Seems that Traveler was about my size when he started (197 pounds) and now looks about like me, thin as a rail.

Day=93 Tuesday, May 20th Ensign Cowall Shelter Miles= 15.7 Total= 1040.3 @ Ensign Cowall Shelter, United States, Maryland

2008-05-20T13:30:52.000Z

It was a wet cold day today, but I am feeling better today and the hike wasn't too bad. The trail was muddy in places and there was lots of Civil War History along the trail. Also, Maryland doesn't have much in the way of rocky terrian, but when they do find some, the trail is sure to go up and over or thru the rocks.

Day=94 Wednesday, May 21st Antietam Shelter Miles= 16.9 Total= 1057.2 @ Antietam Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-21T14:52:07.000Z

I crossed out of Maryland today into Pennsylvania. I had a nice stop at the Pen-Mar Park and there was a big picnic going on, but no Trail Magic to be had. The Mason/Dixon Line was the railroad tracks at the edge of park and I stepped over and hiked on into Pennsylvania. The hiking was not too difficult and I was at the shelter in short order for my first stay at a shelter in Pennsylvania.

Day=95 Thursday, May 22nd US 30 Hy - Fayetteville Miles=10.8 Total= 1068.0 @ US 30 Hy Crossing, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-22T13:06:24.000Z

Well, I am closing in on the actual "Half Way Point", but will take a couple of zeros here as Richard and Estie take me off for a trip to Winchester, Va. where we lived about 25 years ago. The hike today was fairly easy, even with a 1000 foot climb, I covered the 11 miles in 4 hours and then headed a mile up the road to the grocery store and deli for some much needed lunch, before calling for a ride to the little "Hole in the wall Motel" in east Fayetteville. I had to walk about a 1/2 mile to the laundry, but clean clothes are worth it. My oldest Son and his Wife will be here tomorrow and I can't wait.

Day= 96 Friday, May 23rd Chambersburg, Pa. Miles= Zero Total= 1068.0 @ US 30 Hy Crossing, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-23T09:24:30.000Z

Well, I had a pretty rough night as dogs next door howled till midnight and I felt pretty rough this morning, so I slept in and then checked out and headed down the road to Chambersburg to get a motel room and be closer to where Richard and Estie will be coming off I-81. The walk was about 7 miles and really enjoyable till I found out that the motel rooms were all taken due to a State Field and Track Event for this weekend. I walked back to the Walmart to resupply and wait for my weekend guests. Richard and Estie arrived about 4:30pm and we headed south to find a motel room for the night. We finally stopped at Hagerstown, Maryland and stayed in a very nice room at the Springhill Suites right by a shopping mall and went to dinner at Olive Garden for a nice end to a wonderful day, before we head to Winchester, Va to find our old home from 25 years ago.

Day= 97 Saturday, May 24th Chambersburg, Pa. Miles=zero Total=1068.0 @ Hy 30 Road Crossing, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-24T08:53:28.000Z

We stayed last night in a motel on I-81 in Maryland and then headed out this morning to Winchester, Va. to see the town and house where we lived 25 years ago. We found the house in Stone Brook at 109 Sharon Drive and it looked great. An addition on the back makes it a really nice house now and the Pool and Racket Club is still down at the end of the hill and going strong. There has been loads of development in the area and some really large houses have been built. There is still some of the farm land left in the area, so it is still a rual setting. We got out and took pictures in front of the house from the road and also at the Pool. When we went downtown, we found the old First Presbyterian Church where we went to church and took some pictures there also. We returned to Chambersburg and had a very nice buffet at Ryans and now are setting in the motel watching some TV and chilling. Back to the trail tomorrow and goodbye to Richard and Estie as they return to Las Vegas.

Day=98 Sunday, May 25th Toms Run Shelter Miles=16.2 Total=1084.2 @ Toms Run Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-25T10:46:43.000Z

We got up and had breakfast and ran into Burro who I introduced to Richard. Burro had gotten off at Boiling Springs to spend time with his wife. Richard and Estie drove me to the trail after breakfast and after pictures and hugs, I started across the road and into the trees. It was a beautiful day to hike and I caught up with Dartman at lunch and we hiked together to the next shelter.

Day=99 Monday, May 26th Alec Kennedy Shelter Miles=19.2 Total=1103.4 @ Alec Kennedy Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-26T13:35:04.000Z

Well, we are past the HalfWay Point today. Dartman took my picture and I took his at the Halfway Marker. We stopped at the little store at Pine Furnace State Park but it was early in the morning and I didn't do the 1/2 gallon ice cream challenge, but did get a ice cream cone. It was an easy hike today till the last 3 miles when we ran into a Boulder Maze that was just insane but I was finally thru it and then on to the shelter. Just enough room for us to squeeze in and we avoided the evening rain.

Day= 100 Tuesday, May 27th Darlington Shelter Miles=18.2 Total=1121.6 @ Darlington Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-27T13:28:08.000Z

We had a nice breakfast stop in Boiling Springs at both the ATC Mid Atlantic Office and also went to the Cafe and had breakfast. We then hiked out of town across fields and muddy trails till we finally reached the ridge at the other end of Cumberland Valley. The climb was very difficult with all the humidity and it really kicked my butt. Made it to the shelter at 5:30 pm and had to go a long distance to get water. I fixed supper and finished most of what was in my food bag and went to bed with a nice breeze blowing. Good sleeping as a cold front moved thru the area and the sleeping was nice.

Day=101 Wednesday, May 28th Duncannon, Pa. Miles= 11.3 Total= 1132.9 @ Doyle in Duncannon, Pa., United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-28T10:15:48.000Z

Early morning rise and out on the trail at 6:15 am. Catfish caught up with me going up the last mountain and we hiked together over the rocks till we made it to Duncannon and the Doyle. We ate breakfast across the street since it was only 10:15am and it was delicious. We then came over to the Doyle when it opened at 11:00am and I washed my clothes and ate some wings with Dartman when he showed up. Called Laura at noon and she was on the ground going to car rental. Can't wait till she gets here!!!!!!!!!! Well she made it and after a tearful reunion,I introduced her to some of my fellow hikers and we loaded up and headed for Harrisburg to find a motel for the night and decide what we want to do. We found a motel and then went to see a movie "Ironman" and finished with dinner at Applebees.

Day=102&103 Thursday/Friday May 29&30 Harrisburg, Pa. Miles=zero @ Doyle in Duncannon, Pa., United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-29T11:55:00.000Z

Well, Thursday was an easy day with a stop at Bass Pro for some new pants and then a visit to Gettysburg and the Civil War Museum which was really awesome with all the artifacts. Friday was visit to the Amish country side in Landcaster, Pa. where we saw a covered bridge and also many Amish Families, buggies and farms. We also went to Intercourse, Pa. to look at a Quilt Museum before doing my resupply shopping on the way back to the motel. We decided to do another movie and went and saw Narina "Prince Caspian", which turned out to be a very good movie. I have just spent the rest of the evening getting my pack ready for a trip back to the trail early tomorrow morning. Laura will be back next month for our anniversity in 3 weeks so parting this time will not be so bad.

Day=104 Saturday, May 31st Peters Mtn. Shelter Miles=11.4 Total=1144.3 @ Peter's Mtn. Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-05-31T09:28:05.000Z

Laura and I got an early start from the motel and we were back in Duncannon at the Doyle before 7:00am. Laura left after some picture taking and I started the long hike out of town and across the bridge to the mountain. The pack was heavy with food and the rain started a little after 9:00am as I passed the first shelter and decided to hike on to the next shelter in the rain and thunderstorm. Lightning was close but as always, the Lord has kept me safe. I made the second shelter just after 1:00 pm and decided to stay the night as more rain was likely and it did rain again overnight.

Day=105 Sunday, June 1st Rausch Gap Shelter Miles=17.5 Total=1161.8 @ Rausch Gap Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-01T14:45:12.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=1012.2
Nice day for Hiking with a good breeze and not too humid. Trail was fairly nice till the last mile and it was a rocky gully. Nice shelter but I was the only one staying there. Good water source right at the shelter which was very nice. Lots of coal mining history in this area of Stony Mtn. but nothing active currently.

Day=106 Monday, June 2nd. Campsite along Trail Miles=23.0 Total=1184.8 @ 501 Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-02T13:10:31.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=989.2
I finally passed the 1000 mile mark to Katahdin and I saw a naked hiker on the trail today (male). I also got lost going thru a Boulder Field just before my proposed tent site and ended up bushwacking and finally camping by the trail when I found it at last. All in all, it was an Awesome Day as God was with me the whole time and carried me safely over the boulders. I found out late that the trail had been relocated away from the boulder field, but the white blazes still when out into the boulders and so did I.

Day=107 Tuesday, June 3rd. Port Clinton Pavillon Miles=18.1 Total=1202.9 @ Port Clinton, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-03T13:05:40.000Z

I was up early and packed and on the trail by 5:30am and headed for Port Clinton to catch up with Dartman. There were several sections of rocks and boulders, but I hit Port Clinton at 1:30 pm and found Dartman waiting for the Post Office to open. I had been planning on a Hamburger all day and when I hit town, the power was off and didn't come back on till 8:30 pm. Dartman walked down the road about 2 miles and brought us back some hamburgers from Burger King for supper. I also fell again "superman flies again" before I hit town, but God was with me as always and all I got was a small scrape on the left forearm.

Day=108 Wednesday, June 4th Eckville Shelter Miles=15.2 Total=1218.1 @ Eckville Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-04T14:04:12.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=955.9
Nice breakfast at the 3 C's before we left town and then on to the trail. It was a little tough for the first 10 miles today, then a easy walk for the last 5 miles to the shelter, just before the rain started. Nice shelter with bunk beds and water right behind a house.

Day=109 Thursday, June 5th Bake Oven Knob Shelter Miles=17.4 Total=1235.5 @ Bake Oven Knob Shelter, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-05T13:15:10.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=938.5
The Pennsylvannia Rocks are very tough, especially the boulder climbing with full packs which we have to go up and over and down the other side which is very dangerous, but I have a Awesome God walking with me and keeping me safe and I am very thankful. We had a very nice lunch break at the Blue Mtn. Summit B&B Resturant for a hamburger and beer.

Day=110 Friday, June 6th Tenting at Blue Mtn. Resort Miles=13.7 Total=1249.2 @ Blue Mtn. Ski Resort, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-06T16:20:17.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=924.8
Nice morning with early start at 6:15am, but rocks and more rocks. We made it to Lehigh Gap around 11:30am and started up the Mountain for some severe climbing. This was very difficult and dangerous, but we both made it safely to the top and then started the long walk thru the waste land left over from the zinc smelter operation in Palmerton - area is now a Superfund Clean Up Site. We took a slight detour to the Ski Resort on Blue Mtn after a hard climb up the boulders from Little Gap Road and decided to stay the night down behind a ski lift.

Day=111 Saturday, June 7th Wind Gap, Pa Miles=14.4 Total=1263.6 @ Wind Gap, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-07T17:04:20.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=910.4
This was a really tough day with the heat and humidity and Dartman had a very difficult time. We got to Wind Gap and went into town to do laundry and spend the night in a motel. Dartman's friend Nate Jr. came to join us and his mother helped with getting us to the grocery store and also then to the motel. Nate will hike with us for a few days.

Day=112 Sunday, June 8th Presbyterian Hostel - DWG Miles=15.6 Total=1279.2 @ Presbyterian Hostel - DWG, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-08T18:37:02.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=894.8
We spend the night in Wind Gap and the three of us hiked out in the morning. We caught a hitch and were back on the trail at 8:00am. The weather was hot and humid and this was the first time for Nate Jr. to be hiking with us. We took it slow, but the weather was relentless and Nate went home went we got to Delaware Water Gap. I hit the Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Hiker Hostel around 7:30pm and took a shower and then got some pizza for Dartman and myselt. It feels good to be done with Pa.

Day=113 Monday, June 9th Presbyterian Hostel Miles=Zero Total=1279.2 @ Delaware Water Gap, United States, Pennsylvania

2008-06-09T14:15:45.000Z

It was too hot to hike so we took a well deserved Zero here at the Delaware Water Gap. We had a good breakfast at the diner and I called Dr. Landin about the burning I have been feeling in the Quad Muscle on my left leg - seems to be blood circulation problem and may be due to the knee bands I wear or maybe my pack hip belt. We will only go 10 miles tomorrow to the Mohican Outdoor Center due to the heat.

Day=114 Tuesday, June 10th Mohican Outdoor Center-tent Miles=10.5 Total=1289.7 @ Mohican Outdoor Center, United States, New Jersey

2008-06-10T13:35:27.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=884.3
Another Hot and Humid Day as we started out at 6:30am and finished at the MOC at 2:30pm. We took several breaks from the heat and have set up our tents and are waiting on Dartman's friends to come and pick us up for dinner in town. Heavy rains are due tonight and then a break in the heat spell for tomorrow.

Day=115 Wednesday, June 11th Brink Road Shelter Miles=14.3 Total=1304.0 @ Brink Road Shelter, United States, New Jersey

2008-06-11T11:59:15.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=870.0
Nice day to hike - temperature is still hot but somewhat better. Lots of rocks and boulders in the last 7 miles today and it made a tough finish to the day. This is my first real shelter in New Jersey.

Day=116 Thursday, June 12th High Point Shelter Miles=19.6 Total=1323.6 @ High Point Shelter, United States, New Jersey

2008-06-12T14:30:31.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=850.4
Very tough day with rocks and boulders all the way. We had a nice stop at the first road crossing and had breakfast at Joe's Coffee Shop and then on to Lunch at the Sunrise Mtn. Pavillon. The afternoon was the PITS as it was HOT and LONG walk to finish up at the shelter with lots of ups and downs.

Day=117 Friday, June 13th Unionville, NY Mayor's House Miles=7.1 Total=1330.7 @ Unionville, NY, United States, New York

2008-06-13T12:48:37.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=843.3
Well, it was a short day today with a stop at the Jim Murry Property for a shower and then on to Unionville, NY where we are staying at the Mayor's House. The mayor has fed us dinner and will make breakfast for us tomorrow before we leave. He has bunks in the basement and lets hikers stay for free. He only asks for a picture and info on each hiker for his album. NICE

Day=118 Saturday, June 14th Hy. 94 Trailhead-Vernon, NJ Miles=11.8 Total=1342.5 @ Motel - Vernon, NJ, United States, New Jersey

2008-06-14T16:34:09.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=831.5
Yes, another low mileage day due to the Heat and Humidity, which has slowed Dartman considerable. The heat is affecting me, but being from the south, I can handle it a little bit better than my hiking partner. We stopped at the Heaven Hill Farms on Hy.94 and had some ice cream and then decided to hike up the road to the motel to get a room and cool off for the night as there are storms due tonight and we didn't want to get caught going up the mountain in the rain.
We stayed at the Appalachian Motel and cooked our meals just outside our rooms at the end of the sidewalk. It seemed funny to be cooking just outside our room. We then hiked about one mile into town and went to the grocery store to get a little more resupply and some Duncan Donuts.

Day=119 Sunday, June 15th Wildcat Shelter Miles=17.3 Total=1359.8 @ Wildcat Shelter, United States, New York

2008-06-15T09:10:25.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=814.2
It was a tough climb out of the trailhead at Hy.94 and then a boulder climb as we approached the NJ/NY state line up here in the mountains. I took a lunch break along the state line and waited for Dartman to catch up. After Dartman showed up and we rested a bit, I started out again with 8 miles left to go before the next shelter. The first 4 miles of New York were unbelievable with several boulder and rock scrambles and biting insects - finally had to roll down shirts sleeves and put on some Deet. I made it to the shelter at 7:00pm, but Dartman didn't show till it was dark at 9:00pm. More of the same for tomorrow.

Day=120 Monday, June 16th Fingerboard Shelter Miles=14.3 Total=1374.1 @ Fingerboard Shelter, United States, New York

2008-06-16T09:22:45.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=799.9
Very tough day again of Rock Climbing both up and down with some of it almost Vertical. We found Trail Magic Water at several of the road crossings and that helped to keep us hydrated as we walked. We are in Harriman State Park now and water is very hard to find. I made it to Fingerboard Shelter and after talking to Dartman on the phone, decided to stop here for the night to give him a chance to catch up with me. I also went thru the Lemon Squeezer today and had to take my pack off and push it thru ahead of me as it was too narrow. We had a severe lightning storm and Dartman didn't make it to the shelter tonight as it was just too dangerous on top of the ridges. Had to wait about 3 hours for Dartman to catch up this morning before we head down to Seven Lakes Drive for some Trail Magic.

Day=121 Tuesday, June 17th William Brien Shelter Miles=5.3 Total=1379.4 @ William Brien Shelter, United States, New York

2008-06-17T09:32:03.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=794.6
Awesome day today as we were met at the Seven Lakes Road by "Billie", a friend of a friend of Dartman who had wanted to do some trail magic for us. She transported us back to her home in Oradell, NJ for some lunch and a chance to do laundry and take a shower before she brought us back to the trail. We also stopped and got some hamburgers to take up to the shelter for our dinner "NICE". We will do another short day tomorrow as I decided to stop at Bear Mountain and spend the night in Fort Montgomery to wait for Laura on Thursday for some R&R.
THANK YOU - Billie

Day=122 Wednesday, June 18th Bear Mountain, NY Miles=8.9 Total=1388.3 @ Fort Montgomery, United States, New York

2008-06-18T09:45:12.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=785.7
Well, another short day of hiking as we are at the Hudson River and this is where we will wait for Laura to arrive on Thursday, and we will begin a week off from the trail. Dartman and I hiked into Fort Montgomery and got a room at the Bear Mt. Bridge Motel for the night. Not much in Fort Montgomery other than a couple of Deli's and restaurants. We plan on visiting the ruins of the old fort tomorrow as we wait for Laura to get to Newark and then drive up to pick us up.

Day=123 Thursday, June 19th Fort Montgomery/Bear Mtn. Miles=Zero Total=1388.3 @ William Brien Shelter, United States, New York

2008-06-19T09:55:03.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=785.7
We spend the morning visiting the ruins of the old Fort and reading about its history during the Revolutionary War and its capture by the British. Waiting is not easy when you are as excited as I am to see my wife again.
Laura shows up and we load up and take Dartman back to New Jersey to his sister's place and we got to go thru and see where Dartman grew up in Elmwood. We decided to go ahead and leave New Jersey and head into New York as we are going to see my friend Ray Mooney in Albany, NY on Friday.

Day=124-128 Friday - Tuesday, June 20 - 24 Miles= Zero @ Bear Mtn., NY, United States, New York

2008-06-21T13:51:38.000Z

Peiperhiker is off the trail and with his wife Laura to celebrate 39 years of marriage and visit friends and family in New York and Conneticut. We traveled to Albany, NY to see a very dear friend, Ray Mooney and his wife Marilyn and then we spent some time in the cementaries looking up some ancestors before traveling to Connecticut to see our old home in Huntington and the Hospital in Bridgeport where our 3rd son was born. We next went to Long Island for dinner with Laura's Aunt Ruth and Cousin Phil and then cementaries here on the Island for some more relatives of the past. Laura got to met her cousin Warren finally and we spent about 2 hours listening to family history from him. Laura and I then headed north to Connecticut and decided to stop in the Danbury area for a couple of nights so I could explore the AT around Kent, Cornwall and a little north of there. We also visited the beautiful Kent Falls before returning back down Route 7 to Danbury for Movies and Dinner. Laura will be dropping me off on Wednesday back at the Hudson River so I can resume my walking and hopefully finish during August.

Bear Mtn., NY, United States, New York @ Bear Mtn., NY, United States, New York

2008-06-21T16:01:40.000Z

Bear Mtn., NY, United States, New York @ Bear Mtn., NY, United States, New York

2008-06-24T12:09:21.000Z

Day=129 - Wednesday, June 25th Graymoor Friary, Miles=6.3 Total=1394.6 @ Bear Mtn., NY, United States, New York

2008-06-25T10:02:14.000Z

It has been a fantastic week off the treail with my wife Laura and has been one of the best vacations I have ever had. We went and was friends and relatives in NY and Connecticut and saw our old house in Huntington, Ct. and the Hospital in Bridgeport where our son Jon was born. We also visited some Trail Towns in Ct. and spend many wonderful days together. Now it is time to HIKE North to Katahdin.

Day=130 - Thursday, June 26th RPH Shelter Miles=18.9 Total=1413.5 @ RPH Shelter,NY, United States, New York

2008-06-26T10:26:27.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=760.5
Back together with Dartman now and it was a very tough Humid Day with some rain. My right knee started hurting today and also the left knee on long downhills. The only thing I changed was some new boots which are stiffer and may be causing the problem since I have not had any knee issues todate.

Day=131 - Friday, June 27th Morgan Stewart Shelter Miles=9.0 Total=1422.5 @ Morgan Stewart Shelter,NY, United States, New York

2008-06-27T10:31:08.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=751.5
Miles to Maine=470.1
I have decided to add a entry for the miles to the Maine border as that is my next goal by August 8th. We did a short day today due to my knees and while I had some pain, it was not too bad. We had a nice morning stop at NY 52 and went to a deli and got a bacon/egg and cheese sandwich and then on to the shelter.

Day=132 - Saturday, June 28th Wiley Shelter Miles=16.3 Total=1438.8 @ Wiley Shelter,NY, United States, New York

2008-06-28T10:37:21.000Z

Miles to Katahdin= 735.2
Miles to Maine= 453.8
Hot and Humid again today - did another deli stop at HY 22 near Pawling, NY. The last 5.6 miles were very tough, but we met a nice young hiker from NYC (Christina) who was a little lost and we let her hike with us as we were going the same way she wanted to go. It is easy to get turned around and miss some of the blazes. Tomorrow we cross the border into Connecticut which means 9 states done and 5 states left to finish.

Day=133 - Sunday, June 29th Mt. Algo Shelter Miles=12.4 Total=1451.2 @ Mt. Algo Shelter,NY, United States, Connecticut

2008-06-29T10:43:03.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=722.8
Miles to Maine= 441.4
Slow start today at 7:00am and humidity hit us hard, but out of NY and into Connecticut now. The last 6 miles also got us caught by some rain and made the rocks slippery. My right knee is still acting up some, but I continue to press on. This shelter just above Kent. Ct. is nice with a very nice cold mountain stream right nearby. Tomorrow is laundry, food and shower day in Kent, and then a 12 mile hike to our next stopping point for the night.

Day=134 - Monday, June 30th Silver Hill Campsite Miles=10.5 Total=1461.7 @ Silver Hill Campsite, United States, Connecticut

2008-06-30T13:06:44.000Z

MIles to Katahdin=712.3
Miles to Maine=430.9
We spent a lovely morning in Kent and then after a huge pizza, we hiked back out of town and up the mountain again. Extremely tough and dangerous down from St. John's Ledges - Thank You God for my Safe Desent. The Silver Hill Campsite was just awesome - small grassy meadow and picnic tables too. The weather has gotten better with lows around 60F and highs of 80F

Day=135 - Tueaday, July 1st Limestone Spring Shelter Miles=19.1 Total=1480.8 @ Limestone Spring Lean-to, United States, Connecticut

2008-07-01T13:43:13.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=693.2
Miles to Maine=411.8
We ran into Willie Boy as we were hiking today at a road crossing and it was great to see him and catch up with his hike. The trail was up and down and rocky today and we didn't make it to town in time for lunch today, however, I did get a "cold" shower at the Hydro-Electric Power Plant today. Little good it did as the last 4 miles were very sweaty, including a steep climb down to the shelter. "Such is the life of a Hiker"

Day=136 - Wednesday, July 2nd Sages Ravine Miles=10.9 Total=1491.7 @ Sages Ravine CampsiteForest, United States, Massachusetts

2008-07-02T13:59:58.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=682.3
Miles to Maine=400.9
Glorious Day with a very nice stop in Salisbury, Ct. for resupply and some Carbs. We spent the morning in town and then hiked out over the Lion's Head and Bear Mtn.- hard down from Bear Mtn. but crossed out of Connecticut into Massachusetts at Sages Ravine. Still planning to be in Maine by the first week in August and finish by late Auguse.

Day=137 - Thursday, July 3rd Tom Leonard Shelter Miles=21.0 Total=1512.7 @ Tom Leonard Lean-to, United States, Massachusetts

2008-07-03T13:00:26.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=661.3
Miles to Maine=379.9
The day started really great with some great views along the trail and some really awesome vistas from the mountain tops, not to mention some ripe blueberries. Unfortunately, the rain started at 4:30pm and we still had 5 miles to hike to the shelter with lots of slippery mud and rocks to deal with. We finally made it about 7:30pm and after a long down to the water source and then some supper, we went to bed. The mice had some other ideas and had a nest right above my head and I ended up staring face to face with a mouse that didn't seem to be afraid of me at all. Go Figure

Day=138 - Friday, July 4th Upper Goose Pond Cabin Miles=21.1 Total=1533.8 @ Upper Goose Pond Cabin, United States, Massachusetts

2008-07-04T13:33:18.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=640.2
Miles to Maine=358.8
Cloudy and Overcast all day, no rain but lots of mosquitos, everywhere along the trail with no breeze. There was also not much in the way of views till we got to Upper Goose Pond which was very nice. The cabin was a very welcome sight after a long walk on muddy trails. I had started the morning at 6:30am and it was 5:15pm when I hit the turn-off for the cabin. I took a dip in the lake as soon as I got my stuff upstairs on a bunk. The cold water was very nice and refreshing. We will take a zero here tomorrow before we head North again.

Day=139 - Saturday, July, 5th Upper Goose Pond Miles=Zero Total=1533.8 @ Upper Goose Pond Cabin, United States, Massachusetts

2008-07-05T13:13:08.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=640.2
Miles to Maine=358.8
Very nice day for a Zero as it rained all day. The day started with a pancake breakfast fixed by our Caretaker "Debbie" and then we went into town (Lee, Ma.) with Debbie to fill a propane cylinder and get some lunch, ice cream and a stop at the grocery store. I bought some bacon, eggs, cheese and bread for our supper. It was great and we all got some additional fat and protein into our bodies before we settled down for some evening discussions about what the world is coming too. We had lots of hikers come in and have a full house tonight.

Day=140 - Sunday, July 6th Kay Wood Shelter Miles=17.6 Total=1551.4 @ Kay Wood Lean-To, United States, Massachusetts

2008-07-06T13:12:57.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=622.6
Miles to Maine=341.2
It was hard to leave the Cabin at Upper Goose Pond, but after some more pancakes, out we went to hike to the shelter just before Dalton, Ma. The trail was not too bad, but it was muddy and hard on the feet along with more mosquitos. Willie Boy and I stopped to see the "Cookie Lady, Miss Marilyn" who gave us some homemade cookies and a coke. I also stopped on the top of Warner Mtn. to make some phone calls and eat a bunch of wild blueberries. Tomorrow is Dalton, Ma. and short 3 mile day with a stop at a motel to get cleaned up and also laundry. We will be in Vermont by Thursday.

Day=141 - Monday, July 7th Dalton, Mass. Miles=3.0 Total=1554.4 @ Shamrock Village Inn, United States, Massachusetts

2008-07-07T11:23:24.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=619.6
Miles to Maine=338.2
Short hike to town and nice stop at Duff&Del's Variety for breakfast. Dalton is where the paper is made by Crane Co. for all the US Currency. Lot of brick buildings in town with tight security. We did laundry and then checked into the motel for a hot shower and then to the Library for some internet.

Day=142 - Tuesday, July 8th Mark Neopel Shelter. Miles=3.0 Total=1554.4 @ Mark Noepel Lean-to, United States, Massachusetts

2008-07-08T14:09:54.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=605.9
Miles to Maine=324.5
Good stop at Dalton - Motel room with cold A/C was very nice. Hiked out at 6:00am with Willie Boy - Dartman was still watching TV. Nice stop in Cheshire for icecream and ham sandwich and then on to the climb up Mt. Greylock. Will finish the last peak tomorrow and be in Vermont by Thursday.

Day=143 - Wednesday, July 9th Sherman Brook Campsite Miles=11.2 Total=1579.3 @ Clarksburg State Forest, United States, Massachusetts

2008-07-09T13:09:15.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=594.7
Miles to Maine=313.3
Tough climb up to the Summit of Greylock, but beautiful at the top with a cool wind and nice view. The War Memorial was also nice, however, everything was closed for renovations. The climb down was very steep, but the knee is holding up. Great stop at eh deli in the Stop/Shop Grocery Store and we sat and waited out the storm till 7:00pm and talked with George from the Liquor Store next door and I ate a whole bag of oreo cookies.

Day=144 - Thursday, July 10th Melville Nauheim Shelter Miles=18.4 Total=1597.7 @ Melville Nauheim Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-10T13:26:09.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=576.3
Miles to Maine=294.9
11 States done and 3 more to go - Vermont started muddy and has improved somewhat as we crossed Rt.9. Weather has been great today - cool with nice breeze. Hiking is still tough with lots of ups and downs, but made it to the shelter by 5:30pm. Saw what appears to be Moose tracks and droppings, but don't know for sure.

Day=145 - Friday, July 11th Story Spring Shelter Miles=17.4 Total=1615.1 @ Story Spring Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-11T13:01:20.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=558.9
Miles to Maine=277.5
Very nice day for hiking - Big up to Glastenbury Mtn. and then lots of smaller ups and downs. Weather was cloudy most of the day, but sun is coming out now. I lost one of my hiking pole tips and had to make one from a dead branch (can't cut live trees) to use till I get to Manchester. Still have a big up to Stratton Mtn. tomorrow, so rest is in order for now.

Day=146 - Saturday, July 12th Spruce Peak Shelter Miles=18.3 Total=1633.4 @ Spruce Peak Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-12T13:36:09.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=540.6
Miles to Maine=259.2
Early start today at 5:45am with Dartman the first out, but I caught him on the trail in short order. I made the peak of Stratton Mtn. about 9:15am and after a short stop and phone calls, pushed on down the hill. Lots of flat walking today with no vistas till I hit Prospect Rock which had a nice view of Manchester. I got into the shelter around 3:30 pm and cleaned up in the nice spring and cooled off my feet - really felt good. Manchester tomorrow and a hot shower and laundry.

Day=147 - Sunday, July 13th Sutton's Place Miles=2.8 Total=1636.2 @ Manchester, United States, Vermont

2008-07-13T13:36:25.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=537.8
Miles to Maine=256.4
Short 3 mile walk down the mountain to the road and a quick hitch into town. A very nice lady (Rotarian) picked me up and showed me around town before dropping me at Friendly's for breakfast. Dartman made it in shortly after me and after breakfast, we went across the street and did our laundry. Nest stop was at EMS Outfitter for new pole tips and a new pair of socks. We went up to Sutton's Place and checked in with Mr. Frank and had a shower. Mr. Frank gives a discount to hikers and rents out the rooms in the upstair portion of his home - very nice stop.

Manchester, United States, Vermont @ Manchester, United States, Vermont

2008-07-13T15:04:39.000Z

Day= 148 - Monday, July 14th Bromley Mtn. Shelter Miles=2.1 Total= 1638.2 @ Bromley Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-14T06:58:16.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=535.8
Miles to Maine=254.4
A very nice Lady saw me at the FedEx Store where I was on the Internet and offered me a ride out of town back to the trail - I told her I still had to go buy groceries and it would be about 1:00 pm before I would be ready - sure enough, she showed up at the Grocery Store at 1:00 pm and gave me a ride back to the trail - found out she was a hiker also - Thank You God and Bless You Vermont.
The stay in Manchester was great and the walk up to the shelter was very nice as I stop at Bromley Creek for a cool dip - mountain climbing starts tomorrow.

Bromley Shelter, United States, Vermont @ Bromley Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-14T07:53:35.000Z

Bromley Shelter, United States, Vermont @ Bromley Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-14T14:53:00.000Z

Day= 149 - Tuesday, July 15th Big Branch Shelter Miles=14.5 Total= 1652.7 @ Big Branch Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-15T14:04:17.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=521.3
Miles to Maine=239.9
Four peaks to climb today, but not too much of a problem except for Baker Peak, which was a rock / boulder scramble for the last 200 feet to the top and then LUNCH with a nice view. This left us with a 4 mile walk to the shelter which is located right next to Big Branch Stream which afforded us a chance to take a nice cool dip and cool off on a very hot day.

Day= 150 - Wednesday, July 16th Clarendon Shelter Miles=16.9 Total=1669.6 @ Clarendon Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-16T16:46:32.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=504.4
Miles to Maine= 223.0
Nice Hiking Day, but a little hot this afternoon. Tried to hitch into Wallingford at Vt. 140, for a little hot lunch, but no luck. I tried again at Vt. 103 and ended up walking the 1 mile to the store and then back. The climb up the mountain was tough as it was all boulders to the top, but made it and the shelter was very nice as the stream was right next to it. Tomorrow will be a short day also as we have only 10 miles to climb to the top of Killington Mtn. and we are going to stay on the top for the night.

Day= 151 - Thursday, July 17th Cooper Lodge Shelter Miles=10.2 Total=1679.8 @ Cooper Lodge, United States, Vermont

2008-07-17T12:21:52.000Z

Miles to Katahdin= 494.2
Miles to Maine=212.8
Yelp, we crashed the 500 mile mark to Katahdin today. It was a short day as we will be meeting Willie Boy's Brother-in-law tomorrow at the "Inn at the Long Trail" and didn't need to go any futher tonight. I also wanted to camp out at a mountain peak to see some stars. The hike up the final few miles was tough due to lots of tree roots and the trail wound around the sides of the mountain. It took me 6 hours to do 10 miles - short 6 miles tomorrow as we hike down to the road and then 1 mile to the Inn

Day= 152 - Friday, July 18th Inn at Long Trail Miles=6.2 Total=1686.0 @ Hwy 4 Crossing, United States, Vermont

2008-07-18T16:03:19.000Z

Miles to Katahdin= 488.0
Miles to Maine= 206.6
Short morning that strted at 5:00am as we hit the trail early due to the possible threat of rain - didn't happen. We hit Rt. 4 Road Crossing at 7:30am, but couldn't get a hitch, so we walked uphill 1 mile to the Inn and had a wonderful breakfast ( I had blue berry pancakes). Willie is staying at the Inn, but Dartman and I are tenting across the street in the grass. We took the Shuttle Bus into Rutland for $2 each way and did out shopping and also went "Hog Wild" at the Chinease Buffet - back to hiking tomorrow

Day=153 - Saturday, July 19th Wintturi Shelter Miles= 19.9 Total= 1705.9 @ Wintturi Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-19T16:55:29.000Z

Miles to Katahdin= 468.1
Miles to Maine= 186.7
Good start from the Inn at 5:00am and I walked the mile back to the trail and was on the AT by 5:30am. Dartman was taking the Sherbune Pass Trail next to the Inn and somehow got behind me and I never did see him. There were several big mountains to climb which made me think of the Virginia Roller Coaster Section of the trail I did months ago. I got caught up on top of a mountain in a Thunderstorm and had to hunker down for about 30 minutes for it to pass and then hiked on to the shelter and got caught again in the rain about 30 minutes before the shelter - plan on a short day tomorrow to the next shelter and then its Hanover, Vt. on Monday

Day= 154 - Sunday, July 20th Thistle Hill Shelter Miles= 11.6 Total= 1717.5 @ Thistle Hill Shelter, United States, Vermont

2008-07-20T13:41:26.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=456.5
Miles to Maine=175.1
Rain, Rain, Rain All day it rained and my pack cover leaked and everything in my pack is damp and I walked by the sign for the shelter and had to turn around and walk back uphill to find it. There was a big group of section hikers that came in and we really had a great time. Dartman is back one shelter as he did not go as far as I did yesterday and Willie Boy and his Brother-in-law are also back there somewhere. Hanover tomorrow and laundry and a motel room.

Hanover, NH, United States, New Hampshire @ Hanover, NH, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-21T12:12:28.000Z

Day=155 - Monday, July 21st Sunset Motel - Hanover Miles=14.6 Total=1732.1 @ Hanover, NH, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-21T13:50:10.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=441.9
Miles to Maine=160.5
Great start this morning with no rain - stopped at West Hartford at the General Store and had a great breakfast and then hiked on to Hanover, NH, home of Dartmouth College. I met a couple of SOBO's leaving town and we swapped picture taking duties on the bridge at the state line. I have now completed 12 states and only have 2 more states to do. I should be in Maine the first week in August and finish Katahdin before the end of August. I suffered my first injury back last Thursday as apparently I brushed up against a tree or boulder and got something thru 2 layers of shirts to my left arm - started hurting on Friday Evening and showed signs of infection on Saturday - some nurses on the trail looked at it on Sunday and said it looked like poison ivy, but since I don't get that, I don't know what it is. I got some neosporin at CVS here in Hanover and it seems to be responding - trying to get hold of my doctor back in Bainbridge for something I can take internally.

Hanover, NH, United States, New Hampshire @ Hanover, NH, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-21T22:26:10.000Z

Day=156 - Tuesday, July 22nd Velvet Rocks Shelter Miles=1.5 Total=1733.6 @ Velvet Rocks Shelter, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-22T18:49:30.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=440.4
Miles to Maine=159.0
Spent most of the day trying to get my prescription filled. The antibiotics that Dr. McRae prescribed, was not available at the Hanover CVS and I ended up having to take a bus ride to the CVS in West Lebanon. I didn't get on the trail till after 6:00pm and decided to just go to the first shelter. I have learned a lot about riding buses and once you know and understand the schedule, its not too bad. Its not as convient as driving a car, but it is more energy efficient.

Day=157 - Wednesday, July 23rd Smart Mtn. Shelter Miles=21.9 Total=1755.5 @ Smarts Mountain Cabin, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-23T13:08:47.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=418.5
Miles to Maine=137.1
Hiking was good today, with cool and wind blowing. Not many issues till I started the last climb, about 3.8 miles with a 1.5 mile boulder scramble and rain on the very steep sections. I was tired and worn out when I finally reached the shelter, but God saw me thru safely and some hot food and rest out of the rain helped also. The shelter was an old fire wardern cabin and it had windows and a door and kept the rain out when the storm hit overnight - very nice.

Day=158 - Thursday, July 24th Ore Hill Shelter Miles=12.6 Total=1768.1 @ Sentinel Mountain State Park, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-24T17:07:13.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=405.9
Miles to Maine=124.5
Rained all night and the trail was a river. I hiked all day in wet feet and then it rained again hard before I could reach the shelter and I got Wet, Wet, Wet. I am going to do a short day tomorrow to Glenncliff and the Hiker Welcome Hoster and rest up before I tackle Moosilauke and begin my trip thru the Whites of New Hampshire.

Day=159 - Friday, July 25th Hiker Welcome Hostel Miles=7.4 Total=1775.5 @ Glencliff, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-25T11:14:08.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=398.5
Miles to Maine=117.1
Hikes to glenncliff today and staying at the hostel to rest and dry out my gear. Its a beautiful sunny day and its hard not to hike, but the rest is wonderful. Walking in the water has been tough on my feet and I am picking up some vasoline to put on my feet each day and also using it on my boots to help with the water proofing. It was a nice stay here with the other hikers.

Day=160 - Saturday, July 26th Eliza Brooks Shelter Miles=17.0 Total=1792.5 @ Eliza Brook Campsite Shelter, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-26T13:50:36.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=381.5
Miles to Maine=100.1
This was a Awesome Day - when I summited Mt. Moosilauke, there was just one other hiker and she took my picture before she left and then there was only me and God. It was a totally Awesome God Moment - the view, the weather, Awesome Moment. The hike down was extremely difficult and brutal, but I made it safely and the next 7.5 miles was a 10 on the difficulty scale. A tough but Awesome Day.

Day=161 - Sunday, July 27th Liberty Springs Miles=11.4 Total=1803.9 @ Liberty Springs Campsite, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-27T17:10:44.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=370.1
Miles to Maine=88.7
Good start this morning but the climb up Mt. Kinsman was extremely difficult, with rock scrambles mos of the way up and then down too. I slipped on a root when I was almost at Lonesome Lake Hut and broke my left hiking pole - picked up a stick and will use it till I get to an outfitter. I will start the Presidentials in a couple of days as my progress has slowed to about 1 1/4 mph. I got the hiker lunch soup special at Lonesome Lake Hut and ate 3 bowls before hiking on to the notch and climbing Liberty Mountain - very tough climb at the end of the day, but glad to have it behind me.

Day=162 - Monday, July 28th Galehead Hut Miles=10.4 Total=1814.3 @ Galehead Hut, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-28T15:52:38.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=369.7
Miles to Maine=78.3
Awesome Views this morning from Mt. Lincoln and Mt. Lafayette, Just Plain Awesome. The weather was turning to rain, so I didn't stop at Mt. Garfield, just hiked on to Galehead Hut - got in just before the rain. I doing my first "Work for Stay" here at Galehead - very nice people here and also nice Croo running the place. I had a great dinner and lots of conversations with the guests about my AT thru-hike. Tomorrow Morning I will clean up after breakfast and then head out for a steep hike up Twin Mountain and then on to Ethan Pond Shelter for the night.

Day=163 - Tuesday, July 29th Ethan Pond Shelter Miles=11.8 Total=1826.1 @ Ethan Pond Campsite Shelter, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-29T17:29:38.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=347.9
Miles to Maine=66.5
Nice stay at Galehead Hut - hiking by 9:15am and made Zealand Falls Hut about 2:00pm after a fall into the water just before the hut - wooden stick not very good on wet rock. I bought some soup and some cake and then hiked out for Ethan Pond - fell right away again leaving the hut and bent my other pole. I made Ethan Pond after falling in the water one more time at a small stream crossing and bedded down for the night. Presidentials will start tomorrow.

Day=164 - Wednesday, July 30th Lakes of the Clouds Miles=14.1 Total=1840.2 @ Lake of the Clouds Hut, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-30T17:28:51.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=333.8
Miles to Maine=52.4
Hard journey today that started at 6:00am. Very hard up to Mt. Webster, but great views and hiking not too bad once you get to the top of the mountains from the notch. Got to Mizpah Hut for lunch and soup, but no soup. North Bound Hiker shared his lunch with me and after he left, I hiked out to Lakes of the Clouds - tough miles, but got "work for stay" and had great ham dinner and soup and cake. The Presidentials are beautiful - Thank You God for sharing them with me.

Day=165 - Thursday, July 31st Madison Springs Hut Miles=7.0 Total=1847.2 @ Madison Springs Hut, United States, New Hampshire

2008-07-31T17:52:03.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=326.8
Miles to Maine=45.4
Late start today while waiting for rain to stop - hit top of Mt. Washington around 11:30am, but could not see more than 15 feet due to the clouds. I had a couple of bowls of chillli and a hot dog and waited out one more rain storm and then left at 1:00pm for Madison Hut. I almost made it to the hut before the rain, but got wet instead. I did another "work for stay" and plan on hiking to the road at Pinkham Notch and getting a hitch into Conway and EMS to get poles fixed or replaced.

Day=166 - Friday, August 1st Pinkham Notch Miles=7.8 Total=1855.0 @ Pinkham Notch - AMC Welcome Center, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-01T16:32:48.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=319.0
Miles to Maine=37.6
Tough day climbing Mt. Madison - very rocky for a couple of miles and then a very difficult down into Pinkham Notch with water on the trail everywhere. I hit the Welcome Center at 2:30pm and got a ride into North Conway to EMS, but no parts for my poles - had to buy new ones and ship my old one home by UPS. I decided to stay the night in North Conway - School House Motel and then hitch out in the morning.

Day=167 - Saturday, August 2nd Imp Shelter Miles=13.1 Total=1868.1 @ Imp Campsite Shelter, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-02T19:53:52.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=305.9
Miles to Maine=24.5
Very interesting day - up at 5:00am and then after a quick breakfast, I was on the side of the road trying to hitch about 6:00am. I am about 18 miles from the trail and I need a ride badly - I pray to God for a Good Samaritan and sure enough a pick up truck stops and offers me a ride, but only for 2 miles. I accept and then the story begins - this young man starts talking about how sorry he is that he can't take me all the way and before I know what happens, we have made the trip all the way back to Pinkham Notch (18 miles) - Isn't God Wonderful. I then go inside the Restruant at the Welcome Center and who do I see, but Willie Boy - we decide to finish our hike together - God Works Miracles if you let Him. The climb out up Wilcat Mountains and then Carter Mountains is just totally unblievable, but God helps me make it to Imp just before the rain.

Day=168 - Sunday, August 3rd Gorham, NH Miles=8.0 Total=1876.1 @ Gorham, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-03T14:19:05.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=297.9
Miles to Maine=16.5
Made it down to the road about noon and very nice older couple doing some day hikiing gave me a ride into Gorham to the Laundry Mat. I got a Motel Room across the street at the Royalty Inn and get a call from Willie Boy that he had fallen on Carter Dome and cut his palm open and would be stopping in a few minutes to drop off his pack before he went to the Hospital in Berlin, NH to have it stiched. We will be here for about a week letting his hand heal before we hike out - also, lots of rain has flooded the trails and streams which we have to cross by foot - don't know where Dartman is except he is behind me several days.

Day=169 Monday, August 4th Mt. Madison Motel - Miles=zero Total=1876.1 @ Upper Village, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-04T16:18:44.000Z

No room at Royalty Inn - moved to Mt. Madison Motel at the other end of town - splitting motel cost with Willie Boy

Day=170 - Tuesday, August 5th Mt. Madison Motel Miles=zero Total=1876.1 @ Upper Village, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-05T16:57:42.000Z

First nice day in a while - actually saw some sunshine - hope it helps to dry out the trail - spent some time at library and Willie's hand is looking better.

Day=171 - Wednesday, August 6th Mt. Madison Motel Miles=zero Total=1876.1 @ Upper Village, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-06T17:46:27.000Z

Rode the bus around today into Berlin and the Hospital so Willie Boy and I would know where to go and how long it will take to get to the hospital for checkup on his hand. We did hot dog cookout with Kanati, Night Terror and Cat - great time

Day= 172 - Thursday, August 7th Mt. Madison Motel Miles=zero Total=1876.1 @ Upper Village, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-07T17:38:41.000Z

Willie Boy and I left early for the hospital and had breakfast there, then went to see the doctor about his hand - Doctor says come back next Monday - we caught the bus back and I walked into town for lunch and also went to the Library - on the way back, I had a surprise visit from my wife - Laura, who had flown up to Manchester, NH and then driven over to Gorham to surprise me for my Birthday ( Friday, August 8th). Yes, I was truly surprised to see a woman taking my picture as I was walking back up the road to the motel - just blew me away.

Day=173 - Friday, August 8th Ft. Madison Motel Miles=zero Total=1876.1 @ Upper Village, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-08T11:55:37.000Z

Well, my goal was to be in Maine by my birthday, and thats what we did. We drove up to see the trail towns of Andover, Rangely and Stratton before returning to Conway, NH and a different Motel room and we went to the movies to see the Dark Knight. Great time on my Birthday.

Day=175 - Sunday, August 10th Mt. Madison Motel Miles=zero Total=1876.1 @ Upper Village, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-10T16:32:30.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=297.9
Miles to Maine=16.5
Laura let on Saturday to drive to a hotel near the airport in Manchester, NH and then took a early flight out Sunday morning and made it home fine. Dartman took a side trail down from Mt. Madison and skipped most of the bad mountains and hitched into Gorman and is staying with us here in the motel room - sleeping on the floor. Willie goes back to the Doctor tomorrow morning and we hope he will get the stiches out and be released to hike out with me and Dartman on Tuesday Morning.

Day=176 - Monday, August 11th Mt. Madison Motel Miles=zero Total=1876.1 @ Upper Village, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-11T18:43:29.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=297.9
Miles to Maine=16.5
My left shoulder has been getting sore again and showing signs of reinfection. I called Dr. McRae's Office and he came through again for me with a new prescription called in to the Rite Aid Store here in Goram - Thanks again Dr. McRae. Bad news for Willie Boy as the Doctor says he will have to wait till the end of the week, so Dartman and I will go it alone tomorrow morning. Willie will meet up with me in Rangely and we will hike together from there to Katahdin.

Day=177 - Tuesday, August 12th Gentian Pond Shelter Miles=11.8 Total=1887.9 @ Gentian Pond Campsite Shelter, United States, New Hampshire

2008-08-12T18:50:06.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=286.1
Miles to Maine=4.7
I bought breakfast for Dartman, Willie and myself and then Dartman and I walked down the road to try and get a hitch to the trail head. Dartman caught us a hitch finally and we started for the mountains - the first part of the trail was on a paved road till we got across the river and then we started up the mountain. Dartman stopped to take a pee and I hiked on and I never saw him again. He had some knee problems and didn't make it to the shelter and I never looked back. The hike up and down the mountains was very difficult and tough on my knees after being off for a week - lots of pain. There is also lots of water still on the trail and it makes it tough on walking. I will cross the state line tomorrow morning and then its only Maine left.

Day=178 - Wednesday, August 13th Full Goose Shelter Miles=9.6 Total=1897.5 @ Full Goose Shelter, United States, Maine

2008-08-13T18:48:01.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=276.5
It has been a very tough day today - beautiful weather with sun all day, but so many ups and downs, you would think we were back on the Virginia Roller Coaster Section. It was also very difficult to get down some of these almost vertical boulders, but GOD is still with me and has helped me to do this trail safely - still beat up a lot and pain in both knees. I will do the Mahoosic Notch tomorrow.

Day=179 - Thursday, August, 14th Speck Pond Shelter Miles=5.1 Total=1902.6 @ Speck Pond Shelter, United States, Maine

2008-08-14T14:06:01.000Z

Miles to Katahdin= 271.4
I did the Notch today in just over 2 hours and had a great time - only hot hung up once going thru a hole and I had to tell myself not to panic and just work myself free. The biggest problem for me today, was the climb up the Mahoosic Arm which has a lot of almost vertical rock for the last 700 feet and was a very difficult climb. I decided to do a short day and let my knees rest - over 1900 miles now.

Day=180 - Friday, August 15th Frye Notch Shelter Miles=10.4 Total=1913.0 @ Frye Notch Lean-To, United States, Maine

2008-08-15T16:33:11.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=261.0
Much better day with Trail Magic at the Me 26 Trailhead - ice cold Pepsi to drink. The trail was more normal today with some awesome views from Baldplate Mtn. I heard a snap noise from my pack a couple of days ago and finally found what had happen. One of the vertical stays broke and it has caused the pack to load up on my shoulders instead of on my waist. I called Osprey and they said they would ship me a new one to Stratton - I will try and make temporary repairs when I get to Rangely. Willie Boy got his stiches out today and will join me at Rangely for the rest of the hike to Katahdin.

Day=181 - Saturday, August 16th Hall Mtn. Shelter Miles=10.5 Total=1923.5 @ Hall Mountain Lean-To, United States, Maine

2008-08-16T14:19:28.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=250.5
Well, down to 250 miles and yes, I am counting the miles down. The day started with clouds, but the sun came out around noon and it was a nice day for hiking. The trail has dried out some, but the mud bogs are still plentiful and difficult to get around. I started hiking with the "Irons", 6 Iron and Cast Iron a few days ago - last saw them in Mass. Cast Iron will be 70 on September 8th and he plans on summiting Katahdin on his birthday - I wish him the best. Willie Boy is hitching to Rangely today and will do some hiking before I get there to check out his hand. I can't wait to see him again. Still no word on where Dartman is - I hope he is OK.

Day=182 - Sunday, August 17th Bemis Mountain Shelter Miles=12.8 Total=1936.3 @ Bemis Mountain Lean-To, United States, Maine

2008-08-17T16:41:32.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=237.7
Well, I'm less than 250 miles now and counting every one of them. Hiking today was good, but lots of Mtn. climbs and desents. My back is hurting pretty badly and so are my knees - got to get my pack vertical stays repaired. Real scary climb up Murphy Mtn. this morning because of the Landslide that took out part of the trail. It was very difficult to get around the slide, but again, GOD was there to see me thru this challenge also - Thank You Lord. GOG has protected me since I started this journey 6 months ago and I talk to Him a lot now and ask him to keep me focused on the trail - not a time to let your mind wander.

Day=183 - Monday, August 18th Little Swift River Campsite Miles=12.9 Total=1949.2 @ Little Swift River Campsite, United States, Maine

2008-08-18T15:38:14.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=224.8
I finally heard from Dartman today and he is about 4 days behind due to his knee, but he made it thru the Mahoosic Notch and up the Arm - way to go Dartman. My hiking speed has improved, but the trail is still full of mud bogs that take time to work around - I slipped down 3 times today. As I get closer to Katahdin, the excitement is building, but I find myself tiring in the afternoons. I hope the repairs to my pack will help and also some food for the body in Rangely. Willie has me a small piece of copper tubing to make a temporary repair to my pack till I get the new piece in Stratton. It will be good to see Willie Boy again and also to get to the laundry - its been 7 days. Bad storm coming in tonight - hope I didn't make a mistake in stopping here instead of hiking the last 5 miles to the trailhead and trying to hitch into town.

Day=184 - Tuesday, August 19th Rangely Inn - Rangely, Me. Miles=4.8 Total=1954.0 @ Rangeley, United States, Maine

2008-08-19T15:22:19.000Z

Miles to Katahdin = 220.0
Bad thunderstorm during the night, but no issues other than wet tent to pack up. Trail was a little wetter, but it only took me 3 hours to hike the 4.8 miles to the road - saw one Moose - Cow on the way down. Caught a hitch to town in about 10 minutes and met up with Willie at the Rangely Inn and we sorted out our dirty clothes and went to the laundramat. The next item was temporary repairs to my pack as the new part will be at Stratton. Nice to be back with Willie and his hand is looking better.

Day=185 - Wednesday, August 20th Poplar Ridge Shelter Miles=10.7 Total=1964.7 @ Poplar Ridge Lean-to, United States, Maine

2008-08-20T15:39:35.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=209.3
Very nice stop yesterday in Rangely - lots of good food. Willie and I hitched out after a great breakfast at the BMC Dinner and I dropped one of my gloves when we were getting our hitch so Willie loaned me a spare pair he had. Good climb up to the top of Saddle Back Mtn. - cold and windy at the top, so we hiked on very quickly. We stopped at just over 10 miles today and will try 14 miles tomorrow. The temporary repairs to my pack seem to be holding OK, but still looking for the new part at Stratton. Poplar Ridge was the first shelter I have seen that used round baseball bat poles for the floor - a little rough to sleep on.

Day=186 - Thursday, August 21st Crocker Cirque Campsite Miles=14.2 Total=1978.9 @ Crocker Cirque Campsite-to, United States, Maine

2008-08-21T16:22:36.000Z

Miles to Katahdin= 195.1
Beautiful weather today - blue skies and sunny - great hiking, but very little in the way of views due to the trees. Very tough down off Sugar Loaf Mtn. to the Carabassett River - lots of boulder scramble and hard on the knees. Nice campsite here at the foot of the Crocker Mtn. - almost vertical up tomorrow morning and then hitch into Stratton. We will spend the night and resupply and then on to Caratunk and then Monson.

Day=187 - Frioday, August 22nd Stratton Motel Miles=7.3 Total=1986.2 @ Stratton, United States, Maine

2008-08-22T12:27:36.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=187.8
Tough uphill to top of Crocker South, but then OK to Crocker North and finally down to Me 27. We contacted Miss Sue at the Motel and she came out to the trailhead and picked us up. We spent a nice afternoon in town with beautiful sunny conditions. My new part for my pack was at the Post Office and I had to cut off a little to get it to the right size - took a little while to get my pack back together, but looks fine now. I dried out my shoes and added new waterproofing for the wet trail ahead of us. My shoulder is acting up again and it will be Monson before I can get to my medicine - still don't know what I have but it makes the bones in my left shoulder very sore.

Day=188 - Saturday, August 22nd Stafford Notch Miles=10.4 Total=1996.6 @ Stafford Notch Campsite, United States, Maine

2008-08-23T16:59:18.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=177.4
The bigelow Mtns. were very tough and the rocky climb both up and down was rough on the knees - lots of pain, mainly with the right knee. Both Willie and I limped into camp after just 10.4 miles and hope that tomorrow will be better. The views were awesome from both Bigelow and Avery Peak.

Day=189 - Sunday, August 23rd Carrying Place Stream Miles=18.7 Total=2015.3 @ Pierce Pond Lean-To, United States, Maine

2008-08-24T17:09:39.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=158.7
Yeap, I went over the 2000 miles mark today but it sure was a tough day. We had an early start at 5:30am and had to use our head lamps for about 30 minutes. We had a lot of climbing going up Little Bigelow Mtn, but finally made it and then stopped at the shelter about 5.4 miles later for a break and water. The terrain is mostly flat, but lots of roots and rocks to step over and around. My left shoulder is very painful and I rarely take my pack off as it hurts too much when I put it back on. I pray a lot to God for strength to keep going. I took pictures at the 2000 mile mark on the highway even though the actual 2000 mile point was several miles earlier.

Day=190 - Monday, August 25th Rivers Outdoors Miles=7.5 Total=2022.8 @ Caratunk, Me, United States, Maine

2008-08-25T11:57:30.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=148.5
I broke thru the 150 mile barrier to Katahdin today and I will be in Monson by Thursday and getting ready for the final push thru the 100 Mile Wilderness starting Saturday - the end is in sight. We packed up in the rain this morning as we were tenting along the trail and then we hiked about 4 miles to Harrison's Pierce Pond Camp for a wonderful breakfast of pancakes and sausage. We hit the Kennebec Ferry at 10:20am and got a ride across in a canoe with Dave as the Guide - have to be licensed guide to do this in Maine. We hitched to Rivers Outdoor where we got a cabin for the night and plenty of food and some beer also. My left shoulder is getting worse at the pain goes from the shoulder bone all the way to my spine on the left side - can't wait to get to Monson and my medicine.

Day=191 - Tuesday, August 26th Bald Mtn. Shelter Miles=14.7 Total=2037.5 @ Bald Mountain Brook Lean-To, United States, Maine

2008-08-26T16:02:30.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=136.5
What a beautiful day for Hiking God has given us today. We started with a great breakfast buffet and then caught a ride to the trailhead and were hiking by 7:30am. The views from the tjop of Pleasent Pond Mtn. were just utterly awesome. The climb up was tough, but well worth the view. There are lots of blueberries now around the mountain tops and they are all ripe - plants are very low to the ground, but you just have to set down and pick and eat. One more tough mountain tomorrow and then on to Monson.

Day=192 - Wednesday, August 27th Horseshoe Canyon Miles=13.0 Total=2050.5 @ Horseshoe Canyon Lean-To, United States, Maine

2008-08-27T14:20:22.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=123.5
Beautiful Sunny Day - the last ford was a little deeper that my boot tops so water got into my shoes - had to stop and empty out and wring out my socks. We hit the shelter about 2:15pm and after dropping off our packs decided to hit the stream for a relaxing dip - water was cool but the sun was warm. We plan on getting out early and being in Monson before lunch. The shoulder still hurts and I am using a lot of Ibuprofen to keep the pain down enough to hike.

Day=193 - Thursday, August 28th Shaw's Lodging Miles=9.0 Total=2059.5 @ Monson, United States, Maine

2008-08-28T12:13:59.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=114.5
My shoulder woke me up about 2:30am this morning and I took some Vioxx to see if it would help and tried to get some more sleep. We were up at 5:00am and started packing up and eating some breakfast so we could get to town and I could get my mail-drop and medicine for my arm. I hit the road - Me 15 at 10:00am after a 4 hour hike and caught a hitch into town in about 10 minutes. The first thing I did at Shaw's was start looking for my package and Thank You Lord and Laura as it was there and so was the medicine I needed. I checked into my room and tore into the box and took my first pill. Willie and I had gotten separated on the way to the highway and I beat him to town. I finally called him on his phone and found him at the Post Office and we got a little lunch and a couple of beers and then went back to Shaws for a afternoon nap. There are lots of hikers here and we had a good time catching up with everyone. We went to the little restruant and had all you can eat taco's (I ate 8) and then back to the room to watch some TV. We will Zero tomorrow and get some more rest - arm is feeling better.

Day=194 - Friday, August 29th Shaw's Miles=zero Total=2059.5 @ Monson, United States, Maine

2008-08-29T20:14:15.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=114.5
I got to the internet today at the Library and updated my blog, but sorry that pictures will have to still wait till I get done with the trail. The zero today was nice and very much needed and Willie and I got a ride to Greenville and did some grocery shopping. I talked with my AES contact here in Maine and it looks like he will be around the house this next weekend when we get to Katahdin and should be able to pick us up in Millinocket when we finish. We are having a special Holiday Supper here at Shaws tonight and I have chosen to have Steak versus the Lobster. There will also be some Local Blue Grass Band Talent down at the General Store tonight for our listening pleasure. Monson is a nice stop before we hit the 100-Mile Wilderness and the completion of our long hike.

Day=195 - Saturday, August 30th Long Pond Lean-To Miles=15.1 Total=2074.6 @ Long Pond Stream Lean-to, United States, Maine

2008-08-30T18:22:37.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=99.4
Yes ! ! Under 100 miles to go. It is a very humid day with some light rain and very slippery conditions. I slipped 4 times today and injured myself on the 3 slip with a small puncture wound and 6" scratch on my right forearm - underside. It was a close call but about what I expected for the difficult terrain we are walking along. The forecast for tomorrow is for sun so maybe things will dry out.

Day=196 - Sunday, August 31st Chairback Gap Mtn Miles=10.9 Total=2085.5 @ Chairback Gap Mtn. Shelter, United States, Maine

2008-08-31T13:32:53.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=88.5
The miles were very tough today with lots of ups and downs and the downs were very severe and punishing on the knees. We still have about 1 more day of the mountains and then the terrain will flatten out somewhat and should be easier hiking. It looks like we will summit on Saturday or Sunday. I am getting Homesick pretty bad now and I am ready to get to Katahdin and "get it done".

Day=197 - Monday, September 1st Sidney Tappan Campsite Miles=11.3 Total=2097.2 @ Sidney Tappan Campsite, United States, Maine

2008-09-01T14:35:54.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=76.8
Clear, Sunny and Breezy, what a beautiful day to hike. The mileage was a little easier, but we decided to stop here at this campsite and leave the last three mountains till tomorrow. My energy level is low and my homesickness is increasing, but we press on for the Mountain at the end of this journey. I saw a female moose in a pond today- young moose and I took some pictures. We have been going slow, but should pick up some speed once we clear the last mountains tomorrow.

Day=198 - Tuesday, September 2nd Coopers Brook Falls Miles=17.1 Total=2114.3 @ Cooper Brook Falls Lean-to, United States, Maine

2008-09-02T15:38:33.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=59.7
Well, I was wrong about the number of mountains, as it was 5, not 3 that we had to climb and the last one kicked my butt, but I made it to the top and then down the other side. I am having some intestinal issues as well as feeling tired and not really getting enough nutrition but we continue to hike and move forward. There was a swimming hole here at the brook and I went for a swim as soon as I got my pack off. About 1 hour later, a young female hiker came in going southbound for just the 100 mile Wilderness and she surprised us when she took her clothes off and went "skinny dipping". It must be nice to be young and not be embarrassed. Seems she is a Emergency Room Nurse from Detroit - Nice end to the day.

Day=199 - Wednesday, September 3rd WhiteHouse Landing Miles=13.8 Total=2128.1 @ White House Landing, United States, Maine

2008-09-03T13:23:30.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=45.9
I was hiking by 6:15am this morning and there was quite a bit of good trail today. We hit the Blue Blaze for the White House Landing around Noon and decided to go and have Lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing. We blew the air horn and Bill came and picked us up in the boat and took us back across to his camp where he fixed us his famous 1 pound hamburger. We decided to spend the night as my shoulder was still hurting me and I had just taken my last pill and will have to switch to Ibuprofen for the rest of the trip. We are looking at Katahdin on Sunday now. A big Bull Moose came out tonight next to our cabin and allowed us to take pictures.

Day=200 - Thursday, September 4th Rainbow Stream Miles=15.8 Total=2143.9 @ Rainbow Stream Lean-to, United States, Maine

2008-09-04T18:06:39.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=30.1
It was a beautiful morning at White House Landing with a great breakfast to start the day (eggs, sausage and pancakes). It was 9:15am before we finally made it to the trail, but it was fairly easy till I hit Nesuntabunt Mtn., which really kicked my butt due to the sharp climb and the humidity. My intestinal issues are still with me and I feel tired all the time and it is difficult to hike when you don't feel good, but I made it to the camp about 6:00pm. My shoulder felt a little better today, but it still hurts as I go to bed - just a couple more days.

Day=201 - Friday, September, 5th Hurd Brook Lean-To Miles=11.5 Total=2155.4 @ Hurd Brook Lean-To, United States, Maine

2008-09-05T13:14:26.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=18.6
As this awesome adventure draws to a close, a feeling of sadness has settled over me. The pain in my shoulder makes it difficult to hike but the excitement of reaching Katahdin keeps me going forward. I am hiking slower to stay safe here at the end and also to cherish these final moments in Maine's Wonderful Wilderness. I am spending this night in the last shelter in the 100-Mile Wilderness and will only have the final shelter at the Birches in Baxter State Park tomorrow before we summit on Sunday. Thank You God for this Most Excellent Adventure and for keeping me Safe.

Day=202 - Saturday, September 6th Birches Campsite Miles=13.4 Total=2168.8 @ The Birches Shelters, United States, Maine

2008-09-06T13:57:42.000Z

Miles to Katahdin=5.2
Well, we made it to the base of the mountain at Katahdin Stream Campground. The Ranger says that the mountain will be open to us tomorrow morning even if it is raining, so it looks like a go for a summit on Sunday Morning, a fitting end to this journey. My emotional state has been off the chart, as I go from a state of excitement to one of sadness as this walk is ending. I cry a lot thinking about family and then pray to God to keep me focused on the trail and hiking safely. God has been my Constant Companion on this Trek and I know he will not abandon me now. As I lay here in my last shelter, I assess my Physical Condition - lost 4 toenails, knees still OK but sore, left shoulder somewhat better but still sore - Looks like a go for the summit tomorrow.

Day=203 - Sunday, September 7th Summit of Mt Katahdin Miles=5.2 Total=2174.0 @ Summit of Mt. Katahdin, United States, Maine

2008-09-07T10:26:32.000Z

Miles to Katahdin= Zero
Yes, we climbed the Mountain this morning. It rained all night, but stopped at 6:00am and we started up at 6:30am, along with Dust-in-the-Wind and her husband and son along with Hammer and Willie and I. The top is some 4200 feet in elevation gain with a lot of tough boulder and rock scramble to get to the Table Lands at the top and the final 1.5 mile walk slightly uphill to the summit. Willie and I saw the sign at the peak and we walked to it and gripped it and just sobbed for several minutes - very emotional moment and what a feeling to finally be here. I tried my cellphone and it worked and I tried to call Laura, but she didn't answer as it was 10:30am and she was in Church. I called my daughter Tabitha and got here to go to the church and get her mother out and tell her that I had made it to the top and to announce it to the congregation, which she did. There was a lot of celebration in Bainbridge and Praises to God for my Safe Return. We now had to take pictures and start back down the mountain, which was very scary descent and then get a ride to Millinocket for a night of celebration and then try to get home on Monday, which I did thanks to Peter Rouleau with AES Seals and his Dad, Peter Sr., I was home in Bainbridge by Midnight Monday.

Summit of Mt. Katahdin, United States, Maine @ Summit of Mt. Katahdin, United States, Maine

2008-09-08T05:10:53.000Z

Piperhiker Summary @ Bainbridge, United States, Georgia

2008-09-23T14:50:24.000Z

I will try to summarize my recent Wonderful Journey up the East Coast from the Welcome Center at Amicalola Falls in North Georgia, the Approach Trail to the top of Springer Mt. and finally, 2,174 Wondrous Miles to Mount Katahdin in Northern Maine. My journey began on Monday, February 18th, after my family had dropped me off at the Welcome Center the previous day, amidst many tears, goodbyes and "Hike On Old Man" . I successfully completed my Thru Hike of the Appalachian Trail on the 7th Day of September and returned home to Bainbridge on September 8th and yes, I went back to Virginia on September 23rd and hiked the 1/2 mile I missed when the Church Group picked us up for Breakfast. I contracted Lymes Disease while on the trail in New York from a tick bite, but didn't realize what I had till I was off the trail and on the trip home. I began treatment on Wednesday, September 9th thanks to Dr. McRae and began the slow process of improvement.
My Hike encompassed 203 Days with 34 "Zero Days" of no hiking, 9 "Nero Days" of less than 5 miles per day and 12 "High Mileage Days" of 20 miles or greater. I hiked 2,188 miles, which includes the 8.8 miles for the Approach Trail and the 5.2 miles to get back down from the top of Katahdin. My Average Miles / Day was 12.9 with my highest day being 26.5 miles. I lost 40 pounds during my hike and was only sick one time for 2 days at Harpers Ferry as long as you don't count the Lyme Disease which severely hampered me during my last two weeks of hiking. I highly recommend this trek to any who wish to experience the Beauty of God's Creation. While the trip was not easy, it is doable with God's Help. Thank You All for following along on my Adventure and May God Bless You All !!!!!!