Coach
Ethan Pond Shelter - Lakes of the Cloud Hut: 13.9mi
Easy start this morning, until we had to hike out of Crawford's Notch. The hike out was more like a climb out. The weather made it more difficult. Looked forward to more hut hopping for soup and bread. I think I am actually gaining weight now. Tonight we are doing a work for stay at one of the huts. The weather at the summit of Mt. Washington looks really bad. Basically, it will be in the 30's with strong winds and gusts up to 50mph. The windchill will be in the teens. Can't wait!
Professor
We are so excited about the huts here in the Whites that we basically woke up thinking about hot soup. 10 miles to the next hut...What kind of soup will they have?... Do you think they will hook us up with some free bread?... We asked each other these questions as we hiked. After dropping down from Ethan Pond into Crawford Notch and NH302, we started climbing arguably the steepest ascent yet of the trip.
Roughly 3.6 miles of hand over foot rock scrambling and cliff climbing. With our packs, it was incredibly difficult...shaky thighs, burning calves...keep pushing, keep pushing, loosen your chest strap so you can take deeper breaths, blood rushes to your muscles in support. My heart pumps, thumps, it feels strong about almost 1,900 miles of hiking...keep pushing, I can feel my feet starting to cramp, the arch of my foot wants to cramp in a ball of pain and curl my foot into a claw in my wet, smelly shoes... keep pushing, drink water to avoid the cramps in my calves and feet.
Cold, wet, wind. It's hard to regulate your body temperature in this weather. Coat on, coat off. Hat on, hat off. Gloves on, gloves off. Fleece on, fleece off. Etc, etc. So on and so forth. Constantly putting on and taking off our sweaty wet layers.
Finally, Mizpah shelter, soup, bread, brownies, free! They like thru-hikers around here, it's awesome! Climbed above the tree line again entering the Presidential Range of the Whites. High elevation, white out, then brief view, then white out, then rain, then quick view, climb, climb, climb, Ridge.
Lakes of the Cloud Hut, just below the summit of Mt. Washington. Work for stay - Free dinner (1 pancake, lemonade, coffee, 2 bowls of soup, salad, 1/4 loaf of bread, chicken, rice, green beans, 2 pieces of apple cake, cranberry juice), sleep on dining room floor. They liked us, we only cleaned for 20 minutes after dinner.
Showing posts with label Weather. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Weather. Show all posts
Friday, June 24, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 109, June 12
Coach
Garfield Ridge Shelter - Ethan Pond Shelter: 15.2 mi
After being packed in like sardines, we were actually one of the last ones to leave in the morning. The conditions yesterday didn't make us want to get back out in it. We had heard today was going to be worse than yesterday, but it turned out to not be nearly as bad. It still rained, but most drizzled all day. We also didn't have to go on any exposed ridgelines. Despite the weather, the day was actually really good and a big morale booster. We still got in 15 miles in the Whites, which is good by itself, but we also got to eat a lot of food. We started the morning by crushing oatmeal cookies our friend Anne made for us in our oatmeal. Later that morning we stopped in at a hut where we got 2 bowls of soup, which we added our lunch meat to, cake and coffee. Next, we hiked 6 miles to the next hut. There we ate another bowl of soup, carrot cake, and a lot of bread. The bread was amazing, the girl serving food really hooked us up. We finally ended the day with dinner. Tonight, we had our usual Alpine Aire dinner with a bagel, a mass produced oatmeal creme pie, and more of Anne's cookies. It was a good day and good food. As I write this I am already hungry again.
Professor
We were in a shelter that sleeps 12... with 14 people in it, wet, cold, and generally trying to look past how miserable we all really were. I shook almost uncontrollably when I brushed my teeth. Sardine lineup: A couple (2), Solo, ultra-lite dude (1), Coach and Prof (2), Maine girls (2), French Canadians (4), 3 dudes on the end (3). I was jammed between Coach and a pole with wet jackets hanging up, dripping. Today, I was thankful for: Soup at huts (vegetable chowder and tomato), Bread, carrot cake, coffee cake, coffee, Anne's oatmeal cookies. We ate like kings, the rain held off, we were warm, we felt strong again. Tomorrow we begin our two day ascent to Mt. Washington and perform our first "work for stay" at the White Mountain Presidential Range Hut.
Garfield Ridge Shelter - Ethan Pond Shelter: 15.2 mi
After being packed in like sardines, we were actually one of the last ones to leave in the morning. The conditions yesterday didn't make us want to get back out in it. We had heard today was going to be worse than yesterday, but it turned out to not be nearly as bad. It still rained, but most drizzled all day. We also didn't have to go on any exposed ridgelines. Despite the weather, the day was actually really good and a big morale booster. We still got in 15 miles in the Whites, which is good by itself, but we also got to eat a lot of food. We started the morning by crushing oatmeal cookies our friend Anne made for us in our oatmeal. Later that morning we stopped in at a hut where we got 2 bowls of soup, which we added our lunch meat to, cake and coffee. Next, we hiked 6 miles to the next hut. There we ate another bowl of soup, carrot cake, and a lot of bread. The bread was amazing, the girl serving food really hooked us up. We finally ended the day with dinner. Tonight, we had our usual Alpine Aire dinner with a bagel, a mass produced oatmeal creme pie, and more of Anne's cookies. It was a good day and good food. As I write this I am already hungry again.
Professor
We were in a shelter that sleeps 12... with 14 people in it, wet, cold, and generally trying to look past how miserable we all really were. I shook almost uncontrollably when I brushed my teeth. Sardine lineup: A couple (2), Solo, ultra-lite dude (1), Coach and Prof (2), Maine girls (2), French Canadians (4), 3 dudes on the end (3). I was jammed between Coach and a pole with wet jackets hanging up, dripping. Today, I was thankful for: Soup at huts (vegetable chowder and tomato), Bread, carrot cake, coffee cake, coffee, Anne's oatmeal cookies. We ate like kings, the rain held off, we were warm, we felt strong again. Tomorrow we begin our two day ascent to Mt. Washington and perform our first "work for stay" at the White Mountain Presidential Range Hut.
From the Journals: DAY 108, June 11
Coach
Franconia Notch Visitor Center - Garfield Ridge Shelter: 10.0mi
This day was by far the hardest one we have had. It began with a resupply, which combined with our cold weather gear change made our packs heavier than they have been in a while. Then we had to hike up to the ridgeline and over 2 summits. Although it was only 10 miles, it was a lot of up. I knew were in trouble when it felt difficult to hike up a small incline on a bike path out of the Visitor Center. It only got more difficult after that. The fact that we were hiking through heavy rain meant we were soaked to the bone. The Professor was really cold. I only got really cold once we reached the first summit. After arriving to the summit, we got to hike on an exposed ridgeline for over 2 miles up and over the second summit. On this exposed ridgeline, we got to endure rain and strong winds. Winds with gusts up to 45mph. The wind chill was 28 degrees, according to a weather report we saw from Mt. Washington. Needless to say, it wasn't a very good time. All I could think about was getting to the shelter and to get dry and crawl into my 0 degree sleeping bag that I am very thankful I brought back. Of course, when we got to the shelter, it was pretty packed, since everybody goes for shelter in bad weather in the mountains. The full shelter and bad weather reminded me of the Smokies. We packed in like Sardines. The Professor was next to a group of French Canadians and I was next to a girl who asked me if my foot was "O.K."? after she noticed me cleaning them. I can only take that as a good sign. It was a cold night. Basically, the most positive thing from today is that chances are very strong it can only get better after this day.
Professor
Today went south, so fast I almost had a psychological meltdown. It certainly rates in the top 2 to 3 moments when I seriously thought about quitting. Saving graces:
1. Thoughts of finishing for Lindsay
2. Anne Farra's cookies and bourbon
3. The fact that Coach didn't like the idea of taking a side trail off the ridge and down into the tree line to a parking area
4. Remembering to eat
5. Moving to stay warm
6. Concentrating on blazes so as not to get lost
7. Elijah Craig 18 year from Manager Mike/Hell Hound
8. Remembering all the people who are helping, supporting, and sending their love to us
9. Not having to pay for the shelter
Franconia Notch Visitor Center - Garfield Ridge Shelter: 10.0mi
This day was by far the hardest one we have had. It began with a resupply, which combined with our cold weather gear change made our packs heavier than they have been in a while. Then we had to hike up to the ridgeline and over 2 summits. Although it was only 10 miles, it was a lot of up. I knew were in trouble when it felt difficult to hike up a small incline on a bike path out of the Visitor Center. It only got more difficult after that. The fact that we were hiking through heavy rain meant we were soaked to the bone. The Professor was really cold. I only got really cold once we reached the first summit. After arriving to the summit, we got to hike on an exposed ridgeline for over 2 miles up and over the second summit. On this exposed ridgeline, we got to endure rain and strong winds. Winds with gusts up to 45mph. The wind chill was 28 degrees, according to a weather report we saw from Mt. Washington. Needless to say, it wasn't a very good time. All I could think about was getting to the shelter and to get dry and crawl into my 0 degree sleeping bag that I am very thankful I brought back. Of course, when we got to the shelter, it was pretty packed, since everybody goes for shelter in bad weather in the mountains. The full shelter and bad weather reminded me of the Smokies. We packed in like Sardines. The Professor was next to a group of French Canadians and I was next to a girl who asked me if my foot was "O.K."? after she noticed me cleaning them. I can only take that as a good sign. It was a cold night. Basically, the most positive thing from today is that chances are very strong it can only get better after this day.
Professor
Today went south, so fast I almost had a psychological meltdown. It certainly rates in the top 2 to 3 moments when I seriously thought about quitting. Saving graces:
1. Thoughts of finishing for Lindsay
2. Anne Farra's cookies and bourbon
3. The fact that Coach didn't like the idea of taking a side trail off the ridge and down into the tree line to a parking area
4. Remembering to eat
5. Moving to stay warm
6. Concentrating on blazes so as not to get lost
7. Elijah Craig 18 year from Manager Mike/Hell Hound
8. Remembering all the people who are helping, supporting, and sending their love to us
9. Not having to pay for the shelter
From the Journals: DAY 99, June 2
Coach
Stratton Mountain - Peru Peak Shelter: 23.9 mi
I was wondering when it was going to happen again and today coming off Bromley Mtn I reaggravated my ankle injury. The last couple miles were painful. We made the decision to take advantage of the fact that we had friends in the area. They agreed to come pick me up so my ankle could have time to recover. While I rest, the Professor will continue to hike, so he can stay on schedule. I will come back and slack pack this area after we finish.
Professor
We got off the mountain quick this morning. High winds and threat of a storm looming. It was cold. Colder than I've felt since Virginia. We pushed out for a while but Coach's ankle started hurting again and we had to pull up a shelter short of our goal. We've decided to separate again. He's going to pull off and get picked up by Rockstar and Britt, our friends from college. We are very lucky that they live in the area and can help us out.
Stratton Mountain - Peru Peak Shelter: 23.9 mi
I was wondering when it was going to happen again and today coming off Bromley Mtn I reaggravated my ankle injury. The last couple miles were painful. We made the decision to take advantage of the fact that we had friends in the area. They agreed to come pick me up so my ankle could have time to recover. While I rest, the Professor will continue to hike, so he can stay on schedule. I will come back and slack pack this area after we finish.
Professor
We got off the mountain quick this morning. High winds and threat of a storm looming. It was cold. Colder than I've felt since Virginia. We pushed out for a while but Coach's ankle started hurting again and we had to pull up a shelter short of our goal. We've decided to separate again. He's going to pull off and get picked up by Rockstar and Britt, our friends from college. We are very lucky that they live in the area and can help us out.
From the Journals: DAY 98, June 1
Coach
Hell Hollow Brook - Stratton Mtn: 23.1 mi
Made another big mistake concerning food. I didn't bring enough and have to ration. It really affected my energy level. I felt like I was dragging all day. We did some cowboy camping on a mountain. The winds are very strong.
Professor
Stratton Mountain- HARD!
Crazy flash boom storm in the afternoon. We got wet but were able to hole up in a shelter for 20 or 30 minutes with a chaperoned group of high schoolers...Stratton was a long climb at the end of a day. Firetower, crazy winds, camped illegally on top of the mountain. Coach was not feeling good, did not sleep well.
Hell Hollow Brook - Stratton Mtn: 23.1 mi
Made another big mistake concerning food. I didn't bring enough and have to ration. It really affected my energy level. I felt like I was dragging all day. We did some cowboy camping on a mountain. The winds are very strong.
Professor
Stratton Mountain- HARD!
Crazy flash boom storm in the afternoon. We got wet but were able to hole up in a shelter for 20 or 30 minutes with a chaperoned group of high schoolers...Stratton was a long climb at the end of a day. Firetower, crazy winds, camped illegally on top of the mountain. Coach was not feeling good, did not sleep well.
Friday, June 3, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 87, May 21
Coach
Tentsite - Who Cares!: 26.7mi
NO FUN!
Professor
It has now rained for 8 consecutive days. We haven't had the opportunity to really dry out. Everything is some form of wet or damp. Sloppiest trail to date. Soggy socks, soggy shoes. Miniature goats baaaaa-ing behind Coach and I as we walked down a country road. Folks marveled at the spectacle. Today was a total grind out sloppy push battle through mud and slippery rocks. Almost 27 miles today, over about 14 hours. Took a spill on some rocks. Have a sweet bruise on my right leg now. Dijon chicken for dinner, almost 1,000 calories along with the honey bun it should push it over the edge. 
Thursday, June 2, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 83, May 17
Coach
Wildcat Shelter - Fingerboard Shelter: 14.3mi
-I don't like New York
-More rain
-Resupply
-Postal worker said we looked out of it
-Trail magic back to the trail (ie, ride)
-Left ankle is now an issue
Professor
Finally found our bump box...Had to walk 2.1 miles to the post office on the side of a busy highway in the rain. Apparently, we looked how we felt; even the postal worker lady said something.
Up and down, up and down, that's New York. It's been raining for days. Big rain, slippery rocks.
At the gas station, a man started asking questions about our hike. I asked for a ride back to the Trailhead and we lucked out. He had a crazy Pit Bull in his van that he had to hold back with one hand while driving with the other, in the rain, and looking back at us talking while the Pit Bull was growling - I white knuckled the seat.
Coach's ankle is hurting him tonight.
Wildcat Shelter - Fingerboard Shelter: 14.3mi
-I don't like New York
-More rain
-Resupply
-Postal worker said we looked out of it
-Trail magic back to the trail (ie, ride)
-Left ankle is now an issue
Professor
Finally found our bump box...Had to walk 2.1 miles to the post office on the side of a busy highway in the rain. Apparently, we looked how we felt; even the postal worker lady said something.
Up and down, up and down, that's New York. It's been raining for days. Big rain, slippery rocks.
At the gas station, a man started asking questions about our hike. I asked for a ride back to the Trailhead and we lucked out. He had a crazy Pit Bull in his van that he had to hold back with one hand while driving with the other, in the rain, and looking back at us talking while the Pit Bull was growling - I white knuckled the seat.
Coach's ankle is hurting him tonight.
From the Journals: DAY 82, May 16
Coach
NJ Route 94 - Wildcat Shelter: 17.0mi
-Enjoyed the motel room until the last minute 11am checkout
-RAIN ALL DAY
-Slippery rocks
-Left ankle might be developing into an issue
-Got to shelter after dark
Professor
Saw 2 big black bears today. They bluffed us. I yelled at them.
Tried to hitch a ride back to the Trailhead in the rain this morning- no luck.
It POURED on us!
Late start, didn't want to leave the comfort of the hotel room in the rain. Watched Rules of Engagement this morning waiting out the rain.
The Appalachian Motel is not very hiker friendly. Even though it was pouring, they wouldn't give us a ride the 1.8 miles back to the Trailhead. They were actually kind of jerks, and totally price gouged us to do laundry. Made us pay $11 for 1 load of laundry (They knew the alternative, hike 5 miles in the rain...).
Rocks were wicked slippery today. Got to the shelter really late (9pm), disturbed some older ladies, not anything we could do about it though.
Cooking dinner late, want to go to bed.
My feet hurt.
NJ Route 94 - Wildcat Shelter: 17.0mi
-Enjoyed the motel room until the last minute 11am checkout
-RAIN ALL DAY
-Slippery rocks
-Left ankle might be developing into an issue
-Got to shelter after dark
Professor
Saw 2 big black bears today. They bluffed us. I yelled at them.
Tried to hitch a ride back to the Trailhead in the rain this morning- no luck.
It POURED on us!
Late start, didn't want to leave the comfort of the hotel room in the rain. Watched Rules of Engagement this morning waiting out the rain.
The Appalachian Motel is not very hiker friendly. Even though it was pouring, they wouldn't give us a ride the 1.8 miles back to the Trailhead. They were actually kind of jerks, and totally price gouged us to do laundry. Made us pay $11 for 1 load of laundry (They knew the alternative, hike 5 miles in the rain...).
Rocks were wicked slippery today. Got to the shelter really late (9pm), disturbed some older ladies, not anything we could do about it though.
Cooking dinner late, want to go to bed.
My feet hurt.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 58, April 22
Coach
Pass Mountain Hut - Front Royal, VA (US 522): 26.6 mi
After cowboy camping, we managed to pack up most of our things before the rain set in. The day was miserable and we got to hike all day in hypothermic weather, which basically means high 30s to low 40s with rain and strong winds. The push through the Shenandoah National Park really took its toll. The only thing that really got us through this day was knowing that Lindsay would be waiting with food and beer to whisk us to Zero Day land for much needed recovery time.
Professor
When we woke this morning we had just enough time to eat breakfast before it started to rain. After that, it really didn't stop and it got colder. It was the first time we had to put almost complete "weather armor" on in a while. As the second 25+ miler in a row it was quickly turning into a miserable day with this cold wet weather. This is hypothermia weather, perfect conditions. For lunch, we ran into another troop of boyscouts on Spring Break. They had a fire going which Coach and I immediately took to. We were hunched over the fire with our clothes steaming from wet. The boyscouts thought we were heroes. I felt like a beaten wet dog, but the enthusiasm and fire definitely helped morale! They took a picture of us in a group with them. My wife was the most perfect Trail Angel with beers and BBQ waiting for us at the end of this miserable finale of the Shenandoah 107.5 mile push.
Pass Mountain Hut - Front Royal, VA (US 522): 26.6 mi
After cowboy camping, we managed to pack up most of our things before the rain set in. The day was miserable and we got to hike all day in hypothermic weather, which basically means high 30s to low 40s with rain and strong winds. The push through the Shenandoah National Park really took its toll. The only thing that really got us through this day was knowing that Lindsay would be waiting with food and beer to whisk us to Zero Day land for much needed recovery time.
Professor
When we woke this morning we had just enough time to eat breakfast before it started to rain. After that, it really didn't stop and it got colder. It was the first time we had to put almost complete "weather armor" on in a while. As the second 25+ miler in a row it was quickly turning into a miserable day with this cold wet weather. This is hypothermia weather, perfect conditions. For lunch, we ran into another troop of boyscouts on Spring Break. They had a fire going which Coach and I immediately took to. We were hunched over the fire with our clothes steaming from wet. The boyscouts thought we were heroes. I felt like a beaten wet dog, but the enthusiasm and fire definitely helped morale! They took a picture of us in a group with them. My wife was the most perfect Trail Angel with beers and BBQ waiting for us at the end of this miserable finale of the Shenandoah 107.5 mile push.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 53, April 17
Coach
The Priest Shelter - Campsite with view: 22.4 mi
The sun is the top deity in ancient religion for a good reason. After getting soaked in thunderstorms Old Man Winter was nice enough to drop the temperature below freezing for us. We ran into a young family with a little 8 year old boy who was freezing but not complaining, probably because he couldn't talk. I love how being a thru-hiker means people give you food.
When massive amounts of deer show no fear it kind of gets a little scary. Almost like maybe they aren't scared because they have a plan to attack you.
Professor
Slept in rain gear last night. Frozen shoes. Forded a stream, and helped a man across. Ran into a young family including a frozen 8 year old. Long lunch on Hanging Rock. Dried stuff out somewhat. Trail Angels gave us salami and cheese. Deer next to me while hiking. Hiked in the dark.
We are out on a mountain top under a tarp with strong winds. But it is clear the moon is full. A deer ate grass next to us while we cooked dinner. Our tarp catches the wind and I feel like we are sailing. Sailing at night on the mountain top.
The Priest Shelter - Campsite with view: 22.4 mi
The sun is the top deity in ancient religion for a good reason. After getting soaked in thunderstorms Old Man Winter was nice enough to drop the temperature below freezing for us. We ran into a young family with a little 8 year old boy who was freezing but not complaining, probably because he couldn't talk. I love how being a thru-hiker means people give you food.
When massive amounts of deer show no fear it kind of gets a little scary. Almost like maybe they aren't scared because they have a plan to attack you.
Professor
Slept in rain gear last night. Frozen shoes. Forded a stream, and helped a man across. Ran into a young family including a frozen 8 year old. Long lunch on Hanging Rock. Dried stuff out somewhat. Trail Angels gave us salami and cheese. Deer next to me while hiking. Hiked in the dark.
We are out on a mountain top under a tarp with strong winds. But it is clear the moon is full. A deer ate grass next to us while we cooked dinner. Our tarp catches the wind and I feel like we are sailing. Sailing at night on the mountain top.
From the Journals: DAY 52
Coach
Cow Camp Gap Shelter - The Priest Shelter: 17.1 mi
Top 5 worst weather day. I hope the Professor can get his chili dog in Waynesboro, VA. A tree crashed down in front of the shelter last night and did not wake us.
Professor
The storm started around midnight last night, very strong winds. A giant tree next to the shelter blew over in the middle of the night. It didn't wake Coach or I but the other two guys shot wide awake, we learned about it this morning. Awoke to rain and wind. Stayed in the shelter a little longer to see if it would let up. It didn't. We were forced to hike regardless. As we hiked, we climbed. As we climbed, the storm got worse... and worse. It was, I think, the heaviest rain we've been in, with easily 40+ mile gusts. Coach and I walked at a 45 degree angle against the wind, rain, thunder and lightning. It hailed on us on several different occasions. As I write this I can literally squeeze the water from my sleeping bag. It rained so hard that my system of keeping my equipment dry totally failed. I am going to wear my rain gear inside my sleeping bag tonight. Hopefully, it has not lost too much repellance value.... snowflakes, dang.
Cow Camp Gap Shelter - The Priest Shelter: 17.1 mi
Top 5 worst weather day. I hope the Professor can get his chili dog in Waynesboro, VA. A tree crashed down in front of the shelter last night and did not wake us.
Professor
The storm started around midnight last night, very strong winds. A giant tree next to the shelter blew over in the middle of the night. It didn't wake Coach or I but the other two guys shot wide awake, we learned about it this morning. Awoke to rain and wind. Stayed in the shelter a little longer to see if it would let up. It didn't. We were forced to hike regardless. As we hiked, we climbed. As we climbed, the storm got worse... and worse. It was, I think, the heaviest rain we've been in, with easily 40+ mile gusts. Coach and I walked at a 45 degree angle against the wind, rain, thunder and lightning. It hailed on us on several different occasions. As I write this I can literally squeeze the water from my sleeping bag. It rained so hard that my system of keeping my equipment dry totally failed. I am going to wear my rain gear inside my sleeping bag tonight. Hopefully, it has not lost too much repellance value.... snowflakes, dang.
From the Journals: DAY 51
Coach
John Hollow Shelter - Cow Camp Gap Shelter: 23.9 mi
Bald Knob (last 4 mi) was difficult. I don't really like breaking in new shoes.
Professor
Silently, we walked through a freed slave settlement in Virginia. With the breeze in the air, new leaves on the trees and the wild flowers, it was the kind of walk that you can walk forever. My right knee is getting worse, I think it's some sort of muscle strain, which I guess is better than something inside the joint. Tonight is going to be interesting, storms a brewin'. I think it's going to be a big one, a wild one. We'll see if we get any sleep, and hopefully the wind won't blow the rain into the shelter.
More trail magic- Two other dudes in the shelter hooked us up with an entire Mountain House meal and some tabasco sauce. Coach and I split it as an appetizer.
John Hollow Shelter - Cow Camp Gap Shelter: 23.9 mi
Bald Knob (last 4 mi) was difficult. I don't really like breaking in new shoes.
Professor
Silently, we walked through a freed slave settlement in Virginia. With the breeze in the air, new leaves on the trees and the wild flowers, it was the kind of walk that you can walk forever. My right knee is getting worse, I think it's some sort of muscle strain, which I guess is better than something inside the joint. Tonight is going to be interesting, storms a brewin'. I think it's going to be a big one, a wild one. We'll see if we get any sleep, and hopefully the wind won't blow the rain into the shelter.
More trail magic- Two other dudes in the shelter hooked us up with an entire Mountain House meal and some tabasco sauce. Coach and I split it as an appetizer.
Monday, May 2, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 44
Coach
Rice Field Shelter - War Spur Shelter: 25.2 mi
Long day today. We rolled the dice with the incoming thunderstorm and lost. When a sign says 1.1 miles to the shelter it should at least be closer to 1 mi than 2. Met up with a group of four thru-hikers, who seem like theyh are hiking at the same speed. We basically destroyed our knees trail running what we thought was the last mile to the shelter to beat the storm. So long story short, we hobbled into the shelter soaking wet.
Professor
Second night with the four guys (Youngin, Fosters, Victus and Space Cowboy and their dog Kaia, a 2 year old husky). Shelter is totally full. Everybody and everybody and everything is totally soaked.
2 miles to the shelter. Coach and I are dry and happy. The sun is out. Within minutes a spring flash thunderstorm was slamming us with thunder, lightning, hail and big fat cold rain. We got soaked at the very end of the day. Then four soaked dudes and a wet dog showed up. "Canada" was already here getting out of the rain. Clothes hanging everywhere, dripping everywhere. The dog's hiding under the shelter, away from the lightning. I think I have some mild shin splints in left shin/ankle. Little worried about that.
We made a bad decision to try and beat the storm to the shelter. We ran the last "mile" (at least that's what the sign said, it was more...); Knee hurts and wet as a result.
Coachism: "Fence-over" = Fence stile
I have a fear of waking up to a mouse sucking on my beard because I got food stuck in it...
The Elijah Craig was absolutely scrumptious! Thanks Manager Mike!
Rice Field Shelter - War Spur Shelter: 25.2 mi
Long day today. We rolled the dice with the incoming thunderstorm and lost. When a sign says 1.1 miles to the shelter it should at least be closer to 1 mi than 2. Met up with a group of four thru-hikers, who seem like theyh are hiking at the same speed. We basically destroyed our knees trail running what we thought was the last mile to the shelter to beat the storm. So long story short, we hobbled into the shelter soaking wet.
Professor
Second night with the four guys (Youngin, Fosters, Victus and Space Cowboy and their dog Kaia, a 2 year old husky). Shelter is totally full. Everybody and everybody and everything is totally soaked.
2 miles to the shelter. Coach and I are dry and happy. The sun is out. Within minutes a spring flash thunderstorm was slamming us with thunder, lightning, hail and big fat cold rain. We got soaked at the very end of the day. Then four soaked dudes and a wet dog showed up. "Canada" was already here getting out of the rain. Clothes hanging everywhere, dripping everywhere. The dog's hiding under the shelter, away from the lightning. I think I have some mild shin splints in left shin/ankle. Little worried about that.
We made a bad decision to try and beat the storm to the shelter. We ran the last "mile" (at least that's what the sign said, it was more...); Knee hurts and wet as a result.
Coachism: "Fence-over" = Fence stile
I have a fear of waking up to a mouse sucking on my beard because I got food stuck in it...
The Elijah Craig was absolutely scrumptious! Thanks Manager Mike!
Friday, April 22, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 41
Coach
Helvey's Mill Shelter - Wapati Shelter: 24.2 mi
Today was another big mileage day, and another top 5 worst weather day. The weather changed at least 10 times ranging from hail to freezing rain to sunshine and all in between. My favorite precipitation must have been the "sneet" it was a combination of snow and sleet that looked more like hail. We also came across what appeared to be a dump site for a dog fighting ring. On this gravel road, there were 4 to 5 carcasses of rather large dogs in different levels of decomposition, so it was clear they were dumped at different times. It was a very disturbing site, and day for that matter.
Professor
Animals seen:
Helvey's Mill Shelter - Wapati Shelter: 24.2 mi
Today was another big mileage day, and another top 5 worst weather day. The weather changed at least 10 times ranging from hail to freezing rain to sunshine and all in between. My favorite precipitation must have been the "sneet" it was a combination of snow and sleet that looked more like hail. We also came across what appeared to be a dump site for a dog fighting ring. On this gravel road, there were 4 to 5 carcasses of rather large dogs in different levels of decomposition, so it was clear they were dumped at different times. It was a very disturbing site, and day for that matter.
Professor
Animals seen:
- Several white tail deer
- Eagle
- Hawks
- Screeching owl
- Copperhead snake
- Chipmunks and squirrels
- Mice
- Red headed wood pecker
- Skunk (walked in front of us for a while on the trail)
Trail Magic (cont'd)
- "Carrot Guy": Dark chocolate oranges, a large raw carrot
- Lindsay and Mom's baked ziti
- The Christian's 5 course meal
- Shana's box of sweet goodies
- The Hiker Inn with Paul and Lee in Damascus and Lindsay driving us to the front of every establishment
- Storeowner who gave us 2lbs of fudge
- Manager Mike- slackpacking
- Healthy trucker magic: bananas and peaches
- Marcus's Chalet
Thursday, April 7, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 17, March 12
Coach Newfound Gap - Tri-Corner Knob Shelter: 15.6mi Last half of the day trucking through snow really sucked. First time we were passed by someone who started after us.
Professor 15+ miles, deep snow, hard, tired, Charlie's Bunion. People on the Trail Gadget: California, glass eye, lost 50lbs to hike the AT, never been backpacking before this experience. Got his name because he carries lots of "gadgets" with him...phyiscal therapy electrodes, etc.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Sneak Peek- Conditions around Mt. Rogers (VA)
Manager Mike spent several days last week assisting Coach and Professor's efforts battling the elements between Damascus and Marion. He would drop them off in the morning where the trail crosses a roadway and pick them up at the end of the day at another crossing, then bring them back to a hotel where they could spend the night out of the weather and get a hot meal. Here is his report:
I've attached a couple of photos that show what the guys have been going through for over a week now. These were taken at one of the drop off points on a mountain pass near Mt Rogers. The first one is of Professor adjusting his protective clothing and gear. The other photo shows the conditions they faced that morning as they stood in front of the car. I took it through the front windshield of the car because I was not properly equipped to step out into this mess which probably would have instantly ruined the camera anyway. First of all we were suspended in a thick cloud that engulfed the higher elevations making it inky dark with a visibility of about 20 feet if your LED headlamp was on and about zero with it turned off. The wind was blowing at about 30-35 MPH and the temperature was around 35 degrees. It was raining and snowing and the wind was swirling. It was like standing in a freezing cold shower with a dozen nozzles showering you from every direction. From the comfort of my car I nervously watched the barely visible glow of their headlamps seek out the white blazes of the A.T. as they ascended a grassy bald called Elk Garden heading for Mt Rogers. In my mind I urged them to veer left up the slope for I had scoped out the path the day before while it was still daylight and knew it went in that direction. Then suddenly the glow of their headlamps vanished and I found myself staring into blackness wondering if striking out under these conditions had been a mistake. Then I put myself in their shoes and when envy pushed my fear aside I felt they would be OK. The second photo captures one of the many realities that hikers face when they take on the totality of what constitutes an A.T. through hike. They hiked 23 miles that day and 12 hours later near day's last light when I saw them pop out of a rain drenched laurel thicket at the planned rendezvous point, I couldn't have been more relieved...or proud. It was thrilling for me to walk with them that first mile in Georgia on February 24th and it was thrilling today to walk in and meet them at mile 549 then back out to the car at 551.6 where I will leave them tomorrow morning once again in the wind and rain and snow.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
From the Journals: DAY 11
Coach
Sassafras Gap Shelter - Cable Gap Shelter: 16.7 mi
7:40am start. Experienced yet another type of weather today. It is amazing to see it change so quickly and run the gambit at the same time. Took it easy on the pace. The Professor is starting to get annoyed about his prep time on his feet. It is taking a long time, but there really isn't an alternative. Got in bed by 6:30pm. Arrived at shelter and ate and quickly got into bed. Temp. dropped quickly.
Professor
Rain and fog Cable Gap w/ ATL Dave. COLD 22 degrees. There is a mouse in this shelter...
Sassafras Gap Shelter - Cable Gap Shelter: 16.7 mi
7:40am start. Experienced yet another type of weather today. It is amazing to see it change so quickly and run the gambit at the same time. Took it easy on the pace. The Professor is starting to get annoyed about his prep time on his feet. It is taking a long time, but there really isn't an alternative. Got in bed by 6:30pm. Arrived at shelter and ate and quickly got into bed. Temp. dropped quickly.
Professor
Rain and fog Cable Gap w/ ATL Dave. COLD 22 degrees. There is a mouse in this shelter...
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