One State Completed

Waking at my usual time, I started my shuffling.  I knew today'd be cold, wet, with a chance of sun.  I so anticipated getting out that I forgot my cheese in the fridge at Top of Georgia Hostel.

I caught a lift to the trailhead.  Rain fell gently.  I paced the first couple of miles with another fast hiker.  Then I was on my own.  I took shelter from the rain at Plum Orchard shelter for a snack.

I continued on into the mist.  Two hours later Rocky passed on his daily southbound loop.  He said I was close to the border.

Mist and a steep up hill awaited for me.  I reached the tree with the NC/GA sign.  I hollered and booted.  Soon a few other hikers showed.  They too celebrated. I wanted to make a taco of peanut butter and jerky.

I continued on, taking another shelter from.the rain at Muskrat shelter.  I heard a group of 6 had moved on to Standing Indian shelter.  With the weather breaking I hoped it would entice others to move on.

I enjoyed some free hiking.  The weather was slightly sunny but cold.  I arrived the next shelter just behind two others.  Not enough room for two but a squeeze for one.  The temp tonight is due to be 20 degrees.  I'm thankful for the squeeze.

I shook my wet clothes.  Unloaded the ruck and fetched water.  Cooking in thus shelter is nice for the huge awning.  No picnic table to flip but lots of hanging gear to dodge.

Time to look at the guide for tomorrow and see what's in store.  I'd like to see the forecast.

Zero Day

After pushing for the last few days, I called it at day off.  I'd like to say it's because of the weather but, that's due to hit tomorrow.  I called it.

I took time to review my gear and realized my ruck is failing on the shoulder straps.  My hiker buddies and I went looking for outfitters in Hiawassee.  There aren't any in this hiker town.  I spent some time sowing.  I did order a pack from REI while I had service.  T-mobile doesn't have much coverage here.

Yesterday, I came down from Tray Mountain, a 10 mile hike, the shortest yet.  Gamer and I got an easy ride into the Blueberry Patch Hostel.  The world's greatest hiker palace.  Gary & Lennie are great hosts, with a bunk house that sleeps 12.  They offer a complementary breakfast in the morning.  Totally worth the hike in.

Tonight I'm at Top of Georgia Hostel.  It's a new place off the trail.  It's run by a former thru-hiker and guide.  The luxury here is the marble & hot water foot bath.

Blood Mountain

Blood Mountain was the site on an Indian war many generations ago.  Last night I hike the summit with my full ruck.  The views were amazing.  The effort worth it.

I'm finding sleeping in shelters is a bit annoying with being open to the wind and snoorers.  They also tend to be a bit dirty.  I've slept in 3 so far. The benefits is the fellowship of the trail.  I've learned more then a lot about the trail and where others be from.

I know I'm pushing a bit but it's worth it.

Low Gap Shelter - A Day I'm the Life

I'm slowly falling into pace with life on the trail.  As I followed around the bend into yet another gap I saw the shelter ringed by camp sites and hearing the water source (a stream), I thought about my day.

My day began at Neel's Gap with Mountain Crossings Hostel.  I woke early to shuffle my gear.  I hear a coffee pot drip and I drank of it.  Soon others were up and lights came on.  The shuffle is always the first thing either at camp/shelter or hostel.  Last item of the morning was to eat breakfast.

After a quick last minute swing into the out fitters I headed up the mountain.  Most the day I hike alone.  I'd stop for a power bar every now and then.  At every water source, drink.  Today was a bit thin on the water.  At Hogpen Gap, I stopped for an actual break and Butterscotch stopped too.  A moment later a couple with a dog bounced down.  They offered water.  They offered water, ice cold, dripping wet from their pickup.  We drank and drank.

On up yet another mountain.  The trail is always going up, even when it's going down it's up.  I took a picture I'd the of the only flat spot I've seen longer then a hundred yards.  There were no views but out of Neel's.

Once in camp, the chores begin.  First is to claim a spot either a tent or shelter.  This takes more then throwing a pad down.  Next comes setting gear out, sleeping bag, cook kit.  Finally, I get water, filtering and bringing it back from either a stream or spring.

Sometimes I'll write or cook.  Cooking is simply boiling water and soaking freeze dried or noodles.  I also make tea.  Conversation abounds with every topic from blisters to where folks hiked from.  Sometimes we actually talk about what where we are from or what we do.  Some know I sell insurance.

The days get called early.  Early is sun down.  Once it gets dark folks bed down or finish chores.  Seldom is anyone up into dark.  If one is, the headlamp goes around the neck just before dark for those who do.

It's good to see familiar faces at each shelter.  Tonight I'm with Gentlemen Jim, Butterscotch, Stitch, Birdie, Doc,  Puzzle, Gamer, and a few others.  If someone you don't know shows pretty much someone knows them unless it's a weekender.  Though tonight is w weekend, no weekenders.

PS - You may not see pictures with the entries as my app clogs on the save.

Springer Mountain

Climbing up the stairs at Amicacola Falls, I thought my legs would give way.  The weather none to beat.  I tried to keep up with a couple college kids which proved useless.  I fell in step with Gentleman Jim, a second timer, Preacher from FL, and Chicken Feathers.

The last shot up to Springer Mountain I kept to my own pace.  A few others were at the second plaque.  I went to the primary with the first white blaze.  The moment emotional.  I've planned this hike for 4 years and wanted to start last year.  Today it's real.  I paused a moment to ask for the Lord's blessing on this journey.  I ask for safety and guidance.  I ask that I may grow deeper in faith as I struggle.

Last night I stayed at Stover Creek shelter with 7 others on the deck, 2 up stairs and several other in tents/hamocks.  The comeradery is nice to learn where folks are at in life and to pick up tips on what is helpful along the AT.  The down side, snores,  someone cut wood with a chain saw

Today, I climbed Sassafras Mountain.  I'm at Gooch Mountain tonight.  Another full shelter and the tent sites filling.  I don't see Preacher, I hope he makes it before dark.  All the others are here lest the German boys.

Time for dinner.
Hike strong...

Amicalola

Arriving during one of Atlanta's worse down pours, I kept thinking, why this rain?  My ride was delayed by it.  The departing train, too.

My ride, treated me to a shower at her place, and a quick run to the grocery store.

We made our way to Amicalola State Park, the beginning of the Approach Trail.  After signing in at the lodge she dropped me at a campsite.

I pitched my tent, threw stuff in, and went for a wander.  I descended the stairs back to the visitor's center.  I'd registered a few moments earlier as Thru-hiker 1044.  I read the registry for a bit, 2 other hikers are from Utah.

I'm chilling out in the lodge while my phone charges and I rest up from 3 1/2 days of travel.

More Train Riding

I woke to a stunning sunrise over Iowa.  My pillow, my shoes.  My blanket, my jacket.  I decided to call it early after a busy day of site seeing through the Rockies.  I chilled with a few slightly off people of interesting characters.  One a gal who drew graphic novels darker the Dark Horse Comics (I'm glad she didn't have a sample).  Another a Vietnam Vet proudly being part of the only parachute drop in 'Nam.  A third of note a retired educator making plans to teach in southern India.  The landscape of the Rockies will make this slight devastation worthy of making the recommendation - do the train to Denver if only to do it for the views.

This day would be more site seeing.  I immediately began counting deer and wild turkeys.  I noticed also the lack of tags on train side buildings.  The tags I did see were of sucky quality, I'm thinking the farm boys need some education on how to do this form of vandalism (I don't endorse any kind of vandalism).  Every town we passed were of country music description.  I couldn't imagine which town George Jones, Miranda Lambert, or Trace Adkins meant in their music.  I'd recommend the train & GPS unit if you're a 'picker' and looking to score on old cars/trucks to renovate.  This section of the country is right out of 'American Pickers' and country music.

We got into Chicago near two hours late.  I did want to head out for a quick walk about.  I scored on some CVS groceries.  In all my prep, I for got train ride meals, arugh.  Late into Chicago & on time leaving on a very full train.  I hope folks don't discover the lounge car, currently empty with a setting Sun over the American Heartland.

On towards DC.  I'll update after leaving the American Capital.

Ride on & hike on...

Train Riding

Bathed in warm light of sunrise, the Book Cliffs of Utah shimmering greeted my sleepy eyes.  Were they shimmering or couldn't I get a decent picture to share?

Sleep came in around the Point of the Mountain.  I took narry a nap yesterday wrapping things up.  Even as Captain arrived to pick me up I still worked on one or two minor things.  Any one got a hiker's roll of some funky duck tape?  I saved that to the end.  I do have a few feet of grey in the kit. 

I did make a sandwich.  Now wishing I made more.  I've got some fresh fruit & bagels in the overhead.  2 bucks for Maxwell's eases the pain of lack of sleep.  And it reminds me Starbucks ain't here, so for get good Joe.

With 10 thousand Greyhound miles to my name taking AmTrak's a zero.  The ride is smooth.  The space feels unlimited.  I can get up and move around.  The draw back?  Being at the depot at Oh Dark Thirty.  Great thanks goes out to the Captain for getting me there. 

Why not fly?  If I'm gona walk up the backbone of the East Coast why would I want to see the Rockies, the Great Plains, or any other part from 30 thousand feet?  Yeah it'd be nice just to get there, however it's near a decade since I last drove across any significant stretch of this great land.  One simply can't get this experience from Flickr, though one can get views of vast beauty there.

Antelope and prairie dogs can be seen if one's fast enough.  I ponder how many kids sitting in the backseat are pretending they're racing the train in the distance?  Could the US rail system support high speed trains?  Could the costs drop and schedules become more humane if high speed trains came here?  Until then I'll keep counting leaning weathered power poles at the break neck speed of AmTrak.

Wow as desolate as this region of Utah/Colorado is, I'm awestruck by the raw reds and greens.  This is a harsh land.  Those who settled it were tougher.

I think this post is long enough for one to not quickly read at work.  I did wave at the office before my eyelids gravitated to the opposing direction of awareness. 

Enjoy the ride & hike on.

Waiting

The ruck is in the box.  The shoes are waiting for occupancy.  If anything is not done or ready, it's not getting done.  If I'm not ready, I'll find out really fast.  They say we pack our fears, looking at the size of that box, I'll agree.

Now do I pack a sandwich?

The greatest stories are made of little chapters.  The chapter of preparation is over.  Let's commence the train ride...

All on board...
Hike on.

Final Night

T'was the night before leaving & all.thru the house...

Nah, didn't like the original poem, even as a tot.  I will say exhaustion is slowed me down to where at this late hour I wanted to keep moving and gettin'r done.  Nope, busted out all day finalizing 6 resupply drops, cleaning the whole house, seam sealing the Lunar Solo tent, and heading to the folk's house for dinner.

Surprisingly Joker wasn't his creative self.  I think he knows I'm headed out.  I enjoy sitting around my folks place, open windows let one visit the great outdoors without being exposed to it.  It's a common mistake to let the beauty fool one.  This week's weather is unusually active, snow, rain, and Sun.  Even the Joker didn't know what to make of it.

I've kept watch on the weather with envy as the last minute prep gets taken care if.  By the time I hit Georgia I'll be one or more weeks without training.  The first few days are going to suck for that reason.  At the same time it'll be great as going slow to get into shape will be time to meet other hikers.

Did I just say suck?  Let me hit my three levels of suck.
   1). It sucks but us fun.
   2). It sucks now but will be fun to talk about later.
   3). It sucks so bad it sucks to talk about the suck.

On the flip side levels of enjoyment.
   1. It's so great that there's hardly anything to retain a memory value
   2. Something happened along the way that made things interestingly enjoyable.  This has strong memory value.
   3. It's taken work to get the point of enjoyment.  This level has highest memory value.

I'm sure I have all of these, some times in the same day.  Without these ups and downs where'd the story be?  A common thread is the AT but it can be linked into other areas.

I think my mind is sharpening but my body is saying other wise.

Closing ponder this, which books are the funnest to read, those with a lot of little chapters or those with a few long chapters?

Hike on...

A Family Joke

All families have stories that really need to be in Reader's Digest.  This is our's.  Sailor loved using margarine tubs to store everything in our big camp box...

I'll let her tell the rest in the comments.

Panic Prep

What's more exciting then getting on the road but, finishing up last second to do lists.
I enjoy a certain level of clean around my place, even at my desk, I cleaned.  I did leave a keyboard brush floating.  Keyboards are disgusting any ways then add a crummy person like me always snacking at my desk and you get the point. 

My point isn't that side trail rather a last minute check on resupply locations left a spot or two wide open for hunger.  I threw a quick grocery list of items together and soon enjoyed a living room full of drop boxes.  Instead of cleaning today as planned, I loaded and portioned out supplies.  Granted one or two need only two days worth, I went on for six.  I figure this way I'll have something other then ramen, again.

Pairing on last minute, while it's raining (last night it was snowing), I need to seam seal my tent.  I've chosen to forgo the hammock in place of a much lighter option.  I do plan on staying in the shelters enroute so a tent is more of a backup option when either to many are present or something is not agreeable.

So close and yet so far away.
Head up to see the goal & hike on...

Random Tips

Random Tips
I collect tips from wide resources and think of others on sleepless nights.  Here's a collection of some.
@ use hex-head 1/4 inch screws as ice cleats by screwing them into the soles of the shoes.
@ practice setting up your shelter in nice weather with wet gloves, a stiff heavy coat, and dark glasses.  This will prep you for doing it in bad conditions.
@  wrap 1/8 cord around the shoes when in need of a quick traction on ice.
@ drinking straws
   Cut to 1 1/2 inch lengths.
   Melt ends closed using needle nose pliers and a flame
   Fill with: spices, cold meds, asprin, matches, cotton swab & vaseline, veggie oil, etc.  Anything one use of would be used.
  Try to find clear fat straws.
@ chapstick
  Zipper lube, rub on open zipper.
  Pin hole water proofing, temporary.  Smear over offending spot.
  Cover small scratches.
  Fire starter, smear on lint, tissue, or other tinder fuel source.
  Candle, rub a cotton swab & stick short piece into center.
@ Sawyer water filter
  Use a smart water bottle when the bladder breaks.
  Gently roll the bladder.
  Wet and leave the filter for a few minutes to allow the fibers to moisten.  A premoistened filter will work faster then a dry one.  Experience taught me that one.
  Use an open bottle as a scoop and a hurricane funnel adaptor to fill squeeze container.
  Always back flush in silty streams.
  Always air back flush when conditions of freezing are present.  Freezing this filter will ruin it.
  Attach a drinking hose directly to the filter and use a drity water bladder.
@ carry the pack towel on the outside of the pack
@ carry extra safety pins
@ carry one extra tent peg in case of loss or need of extra securing point in windy conditions
@ tie guide lines to tent stakes instead of to the tarp or tent.  I've used this for years and helps prevent lost pegs and tangled lines.
@  tie glow or reflector cord to any tripping or clothes lining hazard.
@ chain braid long lines
@ tie the bear bag cord to a rock sack.  Stuff line into sack for storage.
@  make soft shackels for the bear bag
@  know the back out plan.  Know when is far enough for the conditions present.
@  have a back up plan for when the primary is not possible.
@  make an I.C.E. card with a current face shot.  Take a photo of it.  Many new cameras have an internal memory images can be stored in with the memorybcard removed.  Copy I.C.E. card to every memory card used.
@  take photos of all map sections of travel.
@ take photos of relevant guide book pages
@ carry solid fuel tabs made of wax and cotton balls.  They are light, durable, and a fire starter in case of emergency.
@ know and practice two or more ways to start a fire.
@ duct tape
  Some say wrap it around the water bottle or hiking stick.  I find these methods lead to beat up tape.  Duct tape does have a short life span when constantly exposed to the elements.
  I prefer to wrap it around a card and carry it in the emergency kit.
@ use bubble wrap envelopes as freezer bag meal insulation.
@ establish mulitple ways of communication with your home base to let them know you're ok.
@ carry an extra tent stake.  It can replace a lost one.  It can re-enforce the windward side of the shelter.

@ carry a wide snow stake.  It serves as a cat hole tool during the day a fire coal mover by night.

Avoid Cotton - All cotton worn on this trip. Criteria 2010

Critters

Critters I want to see

I could say I just want the trail to be under foot tomorrow.  Indeed after speaking of this for years some of my friends would love for me to be there too.  Fortunately, for them once I finish, I'll have trail stories to tell endlessly.  My friends and I have such a wonderful friendship. I do chat up my latest hikes locally and if I've seen any wildlife.  I'm lucky if I do.

Sailor and Captain are no strangers to wildlife.  When I visit them it's not unusual to stop for a moment to watch an ROES outside.  Mind you these ROES's aren't from the Princes Bride of 80's fame.  The Rodents Of Extreme Size are none other then the mascot of their town.  I've run into them scattered throughout the Wasatch and desire to view them along the trail in Maine.  I'd love to say, with out stretched arms, "his paddles where this big and I was that close."

Okay, I don't want to be that close.  In Yellowstone NP several years ago, what started as a safe distance a few minutes later wasn't.  I ran for the trees, a long with a few other photographers.  I've got a blurry, on the run for my life, picture of a 6 point elk.  That was close and a different story altogether.

When I worked at Skyland in SNP, I kept track of one of the local black bears.  Some days I'd see her from my dorm window, other days while I was strolling along the trail to Stoney Man Mountain.  One Sunday, on my way to the amphitheater, her cubs were at the base of a tree and she at the top.  I was late to leading chapel service needless to say.  I want to see a few bears may be a little further away for comfort.

I'm not a critter holding creature.  I've unsuccessfully grabbed for a couple of the desert lizards.  I want to hold one of the orange salamanders, if they aren't poisonous.  I've got a feeling I'll just have to settle for holding a picture.

If you hear a scream, much like that of a teenage girl meeting Justin Bebier, coming from the woods, chances are you just heard me encountering a snake.  Once while returning from a midnight stroll to one of SLC's best over looks I heard the tell tell rattle.  I walked inches (24) from a snake in the dark, 2 miles from the trail head. Another time, I saw a baby rattler just of the trail in front of me.  I couldn't get my self past it.  That story turns out good, a young lady walking her puppy came the other way and, well, let say I made a new friend.  As much as I hate snakes, I know I'm gonna encounter them.  So I want to see a rat snake, a garden snake, an eastern rattler, and a bird with any of the a fore mentioned in it's mouth.

I'm sure right about now Sailor and the Captain are thinking why didn't we hear about these stories before? Well let me say this, my folks, it was for your protection.  Besides, you're now reading my raw thoughts with some editing.  You will read my raw thoughts.  Of the trail, I've heard it said you will meet people as real as any for the trail respects no class of people but the real ones and even then they too are tested through by the trail.

This brings me  to my final critter I want to meet.  I want to meet people.  I want to meet people who are new to hiking and old pros.  I want to meet people whose nose just twitched as I walked past, who wonder why I didn't bath that morning or ponder if I ever did.  I want to meet people who want to partner with me for a moment, while others want to go further.  I want to meet people who'll not give me the creeps, though I'm sure I will.  I want to meet people who'll challenge my way and I there's.  The one thing I am not use to is hiking and camping around people so if we meet in the woods pardon me for a moment while I shake a way myself.

There's an old saying in my mountains "you're never a lone for long in the Wasatch."  This must hold true as millions pour into the Appalachians each year.  So how long is long before friends are made? Come now let's make new friends  "come brush against the  walls of my life even for a moment, for the greatest stories are made up of short chapters" (From Student Magazine Sept 1989).

Let's see what we can see and who we meet.  Hike on!

On Film, in Shenandoah NP criteria '92

Distance Goals

Distance Goals

"The longest journey begins with the first step," a Chinese proverb says.
A question the Captain likes to ask, "How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time."
The first failure is always intention not acted upon.

Sayings, yes.  Puns and irony, true.  They are however relevant to goals, to struggle, and to this journey we are about to venure out on.

Now, I'll never eat an elephant.  I hope no one else does either.  The intention simply is, an elephant is so big it's gona take a while to consume.

Intention is next.  Many people intend to do something big, even, small and simple.  Someone intends to call but never does and misses out on benefits when they are needed the most.  Another intends to call and misses out speaking with a loved one before a fateful moment.  Intentions need to be acted on if not for the benefit of trying but also to see if it can be done.

The first step in a long journey is acting on the intention to go.  A long journey takes planning, building of experience, and trust of advisors.

In Union (1300 east and 7700 south) there's foundations of high rise condos.  The stairwell towers over the road, it's an eyesore in another wise nice area.  The developer intended for them to be finished years ago.  I'm not here to judge, I can say others missed out.  This location has clear unobstructed views of the valley and the mountains like no other spot.

I'm coming to the place where I need to post my notice of the intention to build.  Here are the goal points to watch for as this journey progresses.  The Sailor says this journey of mine will be a success even with just one night on the trail.  I'm saying, I've already carved into my proverbial elephant, here are the pieces.  Here is what the building will look like as we progress.

I've broken down these for simplicity into three catagories.  Major goals are points that help break the over all distance into manageble chunks.  They are also places I've read about or visited previously.  Secondary goals further divide the distances into more reasonable chunks.  I've thrown in a couple of reasons too.

All of my hikes include these.  When I took a group up to Mount Raymond, I set similar goals that the group could achieve.   If a consensus came to be that the summit was out of reach then the secondaries were good points.  Only one person that day chose to stop short.  The knife edge presented a challenge to much for her.  With her permission the rest continued to the summit.  She enjoyed the view she had.

I am also including a few weigh points to keep in mind like views to see and the challenges prevously presented.

# Springer Mountain.  Mile 0.  Goal type, Major. The starting point.
# Blood Mountain Shelter.  Mile 29.  Goal type, Secondary.  The first major mountain.
# GA/NC Stateline.  Mile 78.5.  Secondary.  The first of 13 State border crossings.
# Franklin TN.  Mile 109.8. Goal type, Challenge.  Fast food!
# Nantahala Outdoor Center.  Mile 134.  Major.
# Fontana Dam.  Mile 166.  Major.  Entry into the first National Park, the Smokies.
# Clingmans Dome.  Mile 199.  Secondary.  Sunrise.
# Charley's Bunion.  Mile 207?.  Secondary.
# Max Patch.  Mile 254.  Secondary.  Cowboy camping.
# Damascus VA.  Mile 467.  Major.  Trail Days.
# Audie Murphy Memorial.  Mile 686.  Historical note: Audie Murphy is the most decoreated soldier from WWII, European Theatre.
# Dragons Tooth VA.  Mile 695 Secondary.  Just sounds awesome.
# MacAfee Knob.  Mile 707.9.  Major.  The most photographed place on the AT.
# Shendandoah NP.  Mile 858.8. Secondary.  My last park of my Parkie days.
# Little Stoney Man Cliffs  Mile 929.3 Major.  A place I use to visit frequently.
# The Roller Coaster.  Mile 989.4 to 1003.  MUDS. I'd like to hike this in 1 day.
# Harper's Ferry, WV.  Mile 1019.6.  ATC hq & psychological half way point.
# 4 State Challenge.  Mile 1002 to   1060.5.  Challenge,  I am not planning on hiking this challenge.
# AT mid point official for 2014.  Mile 1092. Major.  I'm closer to the end then the beginning.
#  Pine Grove Furnace State Park.  Mile 109.9.  Major.  Ice cream half gallon challenge.  I'll be game.
# The Lemon Squeezer.  Mile 1382.  Major.  The trail goes through a boulder field where the pack needs to be taken off at times to pass through.
# Nuclear Lake south shore.  Mile 1438. Secondary. Site of a nuke accident in the '70s.
# CT State Challenge.  Mile 1457 -1502.3.  Secondary.  Another distance challenge that I'll be passing up.
# Mount Greylock.  Mile 1582.4.  Major.  Highest point in MA.
# Mount Moosilauke.  Mile 1792.  Secondary.  Views.
# Mount Washington.  Mile 1852.  Major.  Know for views and infamous bad weather.
# Kennebec River crossing.  Mile 2033.  Major.  The canoe ride is the white blaze way.  The end is within reach.
# Abol Bridge.  Mile 2170.  Secondary.  One final point to ponder.
# Mount Katahdin.  Mile 2185.  Major.  It's over.  This is it.  The Big K.  Time to .

Fog over the Shenandoah Valley from Skyland Lodge area in '92

Traditions

AT Traditions

Once again a teaser, a pre-hike installment of what's the perceived life like on the AT.  In a previous post I wrote about the challenges of the AT. This installment will over lap and may include challenges.  Today, I want to explore the traditions of the AT.  Any sub-culture would be incomplete without traditions. Traditions are ingrained into organizations, too.  The Navy celebrates the crossing the equator.  The Air Force celebrates a pilot's first solo flight.  Colleges celebrate graduation.   Many companies celebrate a Founder's Day.

The AT's oldest tradition is the trail name, a moniker a hiker will take on for this journey.  If they continue onto other long trails, there too the trail name will follow.  Earl Schaffer returning from the Pacific War, WWII, hit the trail with crude maps calling himself the Crazy One.  He wanted to walk off the war. Other Vets are also hiking of the war(s) with the Warrior Hike.  Some times a trail name is given based on what someone does or what they've said.  A trail name can evolve over time and does not need be adopted by a hiker.  If a hiker gives themselves a name it often gets changed by someone else, another tradition.  Only the Crazy One could legitimately give and keep his own trail name.

Another long standing tradition is getting the pack weighed at the Amicalola Falls State Park Visitor Center.  This weight is done less food, fuel, and water.  The weight is also known as a base weight.  For some this is a bragging point, others just informative.  The lighter a pack, the more experienced a hiker is thought to be.  A lighter pack also implies more efficient a hiker is, lighter is related to more miles covered.

While at the visitor center, sign in as a thru-hiker and get a starting number. The numbering system resets each year.  This is reported up to the ATC for statistical purposes.  The final number is recorded in the far north, if the hiker gets there.

From the visitor center, head to the arch leading to the Approach Trail for a picture.  Hiking the Approach Trail is a point of contention with Purists.  I plan on hiking it just 'cus it is part of the experience.  This photo will be the first of many.  The other starting picture is of the Benton MacKaye Plaque on Springer Mountain.

Another tradition and point of contention is climbing the stairs of Amicalola Falls.  I hear they go up forever and beyond forever.  These steps for many will be the last steps they take with family and friends as the hiker is.  After the hike, the hiker will be reborn as a different person forged by mountain trials and distance.

From the beginning of having the pack weighed some will start tossing gear, as each step brings the questioning of one item to the next. One of the first major road crossings brings the first outfitters.  The gurus at Mountain Crossings at Walasi-Yi.  These gurus are experts at throwing (a shakedown) your pack.   Backpacker.com reference these gurus as wanting to help you achieve this goal, selling their wares isn't the goal.  If you want some lighter gear, I'm sure they'll help you lighten the wallet too,. Mountain Crossings is at mile 31.7 so if a hiker made it this far, it's also time to celebrate as 15% have found a reason to depart the AT.  They lighten the load by 12 pounds per hiker on the average or a great way to haze the new UPS drivers.

By this point in time the male gender of thru-hikers are developing untreatable growths upon their faces.  The hiker beard as it's often called tends to begin to show as part of the city slicker ebbs further and further into the past.  'Unkept' outsiders will call them.  The odor surrounding thru-hikers is not from being unkept.  That's just part of life when a shower is but once or twice every 10 days.  The beard, however, is a choice.  Later, these males take pride in this growth much like they may have taken care of a shiny motorized toy at home.  Many males who take a bit of time away from the trail express regret for becoming kept.

Sunrise at Clingsman Dome, mile 220(?), is not to be missed.  Sunrise from the concrete tower is said to be beyond imagination.  The season and weather plays a big part.  I've seen pictures of complete beauty and utter misery taken within days of each other.

Where tourist mix with hiker another tradition emerges.  For many hikers Clingmans Dome will be their first professional try with this.  And no, it's not hitch hiking, that's just a life line to and fro the trail on resupply days.  Named after the crafty bear of Jellystone National Park, of Hanna-Barbera cartoons, Yogiing. Yogiing is the art of begging for food from a tourist without coming out and saying directly 'feed me.'  Techniques vary from sitting around looking pathetic to telling elaborate stories.  No technique though will work every time, flexibility is key.

One thing I keeping hearing about is a must do is to cowboy camp on Max Patch, mile 251. Cowboy camping is throwing down the sleeping bag without any shelter.  To me, it means heading out to the desert with a wool blanket for a cold night and a big campfire.  This is the AT so no blankets (sleeping bags are ok) just sleeping out under the stars.

Another tradition, and no writing of the AT would be complete without, the mention of the Damascus Trail Days, mile 460.  Trail Days is the party of the AT.  For 2014, it is over May 16 to 18th, the time many thru-hikers will be passing thru town.  This 3 day party includes a tent city, outdoor vendors large and small, and the Hiker Parade.  A sad note from last year, several hikers hike ended when a car careened through the crowd.  The Hiker Parade is complete with hikers getting free showers by a variety of means with super soakers and water balloons.  This big event will mix former classes with this year's and enthrall would be hikers. It is also a reunion of friends from around the globe.  Tips, tricks, and pranks are shared.  Stories tall told around fires and over drink by hikers and trail angels alike.  Because of the success of Damascus' Trail Days other celebrations are popping up, don't be fooled there is only one Trail Days.

Even if one chooses not to carry some form of dedicated image capturing device, the next traditional picture is worth the weight.  A photo standing on MacAfee's Knob is worthy of framing.  This view point juts out from the cliffs with a near 280 degree panoramic view.  This is the most photographed spot on the trail.

Tradition or challenge this next one is mixed.  Jumping from the James River foot bridge, mile 770, is here.  Why not? A hiker needs to get clean and with hiking 1/3rd the way a good soaking is in order.  Jumping from a bridge can be dangerous and or illegal, please consult with locals first.

Since we've picked up a number of photos so far let's stop for another.  This time stopping at the ATC's head quarters in Harper's Ferry, WV.  Remember the starting number? What's the rank at the psychological midpoint? Sign in, get a number, and a Polaroid next to the ATC sign.  Breeze the wall of images for friends who are ahead and leave a message for those coming.  Congratulations are also in order,  most hikers got off trail and only the elite are continuing on.  The hikers that reach this point are more the likely to finish.

From the mid-point to the end there are butt a few traditions left.  Mooning the Cog on Mount Washington is that butt, bare it, flash it, drop them drawers as the cog huffs and puffs with a load of tourist bound for the summit.  Butt there is a catch, the cog is no longer belching black foul of coal and often children are on board.  Arrests of indecent exposure are reported in the last few years.  I'd say, don't risk ending the hike with matching cufflinks.  Why not present skinny bellies? You got it, you earned it, why not flaunt it? This may be the last time a hiker will be this skinny.

While in the Whites, a working tradition abounds.  The AMC runs a series of maintained huts.  These huts are as close to the original reason for the AT.  The AT was to be a retreat, a string of huts a long a corridor of connected trails folks could hike to to get away from the hustle of city life.  A hiker can work a few hours for a place to sleep and some food.  This is on a first come first served basis as the paying guest get first servings and a bunk.  A hiker may get something to eat and a place on the floor.  If there are other thru-hikers present, the new arrivals may have to pay up or move on.  Work for stay is not guaranteed.

The final tradition is a combination of two things.  With in an easy day hike lay the summit day, finally, the anticipated moment, graduation day, what ever one desires to call it, it's time to sign the registry and check the ranger station at the base of the mystical mountain of KATAHDIN.  The grand finally is at hand time to ascend beginning at Katahdin Stream, the trail climbs above the treeline, past Thoreau Springs in the Tablelands, and onto the sacred wooden sign marking the end of the AT.  Celebrations of exquisiteness, sadness, joy, photos of the moment alone and with other hikers fill the moment.  I'm sure I'll be a basket case.  The climb is said to be the hardest of the AT and worth it.  SoBo's and Flip Floppers won't know the elation, they have their own points, only climbs are easier from now on.  PS don't forget to sign out as well, we don't want the rangers needless looking for someone who's gone back to the city, a strange place for the thru-hiker.

I'm sure I've missed a tradition or two.  Send me a message, I'll write it up and add it to an edited version.  At this point I need to fill in the blanks and do some fact checking.  I'm also hungry too.

AT Challenges

Appalachian Trail Challenges

Everyone likes bragging rights of some kind or another.  When I was a kid, it was how far beyond the bottom of the sledding hill could you go.  In Scouts, it was how fast could you tie the basic 6 knots or who could belch the loudest.  The AT presents a string of challenges as well for bragging rights.  I've searched out a handful.  Honestly, I'd love to brag this is a complete list be ready to be mildly disappointed some of these items are easy in concept but truthfully how many can say... they did that.

I've tried to get these in some order of location and category of distance, an activity, the food.  With distances try to not to take a zero (a day off from hiking) after wards for bonus points.  After all why rush a section only to recover after wards, why not keep the momentum going?  Also with distance challenges if you  do them separately you get bonus points around the campfire.  With food challenges please beware of your body, if you can't eat something look for an alternative or cheer on those trying.

Speed Hike to Damascus challenge.  If one is in reach of Damascus VA for Trail Days, pump up the volume, burn a few more calories, and get to the party.  Refueling is plentiful and one can start bragging of completing this challenge immediately.

50 miler challenge.  It can be done anywhere along the trail.  The idea is to hike 50 miles with minimal breaks.  It can be combined with other distance challenges.

The Roller Coaster challenge.  This isn't an official challenge but, it is one I'd like to bring in.  There is a section in Virginia that is about 13 miles of regular ups and downs know as the Roller Coaster.  The challenge is simple hike it in one day.

The 30 Days of Virginia.  Since Virginia is contains the greatest number of miles for any state on the AT (500) to avoid the Virginia Blues some under take completing the state in under 30 days.  An exception to this is if you grab a few days for Trail Days.

The 4 State challenge.  Hike from the State of Virginia to Pennsylvania in one continuous hiking day.  The mental midway point of the AT is Harper's Ferry WV and the ATC head quarters.  At the ATC remember to stop, get your picture taken, and grab a shower before continuing on.  PS at the ATC you're only half way done for the day.

The State of Connecticut.  Hike this state in one continuous hiking day.  This challenge can be combined with other distance challenges.

The 24 hour challenge.  Hike continuously for 24 short rest breaks are acceptable.  This can be completed with other distance challenges.  The one with the most number of miles covered in give period gets added bragging rights.  I understand by the time one hits VA they're in hiking shape and will under take it within the first bit of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Hike Naked Day challenge.  Okay, almost naked if you're not sure of yourself.  This is to, well, hike in the buff except for your turtle shell for the day of Summer Equinox (June 21 this year).  If you must grab some foliage to cover up quickly please don't grab some poison ivy like one fella did a few years back.

Jump from the James River Bridge.  Sounds easy enough, jump from a bridge.  Since jumping from the wrong bridge can be meet unhealthy ends or arrest, check with the locals first.  I may pass.

Moon the Cog challenge.  This is rather sketchy to do now.   In recent years barring your naked skinny backside to the populaces of tourists on the Cog Train bound for the top of Mount Washington has resulted in a few arrests.  I'm thinking of writing 'feed me' on my bellie and seeing if this results in gaindering of treats at the top would be more appropriate.

Now thus I shift into food.  I'm hungry now after writing for an hour, I ponder how much more so will I be on the trail.

Franklin Fast Food challenge.  This is more then likely to be the first food challenge of the AT and is one of many involving the elusive calorie.  In Franklin TN, dine on an item from every fast food join in town.  Now to my understanding there's more then a handful of 'em and I am not sure if it's like fries from one place, a burger from the next, a cookie from another.  I'm thinking it's a burger from each.

Value Menu challenge.  Formerly known as the Dollar Menu challenge the name is changing as few places actually have $1.00 menus any more.  Stop into a name brand chain, order one of everything, and dine.  Congratulations on achieving carnivore like hunger if you make it on the first try.  Bonus points if you do this early on the hike.  Subtract points if in the last half of the hike.

The Egg challenge.  I wish I could find out more about this one.  I presume it involves eating the most number of hard boiled eggs in one sitting.  However, it does sound like the game 'chubby bunnies' where you stuff your mouth with marshmallows until you can't say 'chubby bunnies' any more.  The location is presumed to be in Virginia.

The Pancake challenge.  Since hikers dream about eating and devour everything off a buffet why not add this to the plate.  In Williamsburg VA at the breakfast place order up the pancakes.  Again, I wish I knew more, I love pancakes more then popcorn.

1/2 Gallon challenge.  In Pine Grove State Park PA stop at and eat half a gallon of ice cream, any flavor, and get a wooden spoon.

A Gallon of Milk challenge.  Drink a gallon of milk in half an hour and keep it down for half an hour.  Location unknown.  I know I'm passing on this one already.  I haven't drunk even a cup of milk in years.  If I tried this one I'm sure my trail name would change to the 'White Fountain' at least temporarily.

There's the list I've found.  If you know how to fill the missing info send me a message.  I'm not sure if I'll take on more then a handful.  The greatest challenge after getting to the AT will be completing it.

Chopping Locks and Movies

The concept of a movie being made into a book is as exciting as watching paint dry.  I can never understand why one wants to read a movie-book unless it’s about the production of a particular story made into a movie.  I’ve made the decision not to watch some movies based on books for the movies seldom will capture the intensity of a book.  A great contrast with these are the Star Wars series versus Lord of the Rings.  How can one honestly read the Star Wars Trilogy (I did).  Please torcher me with the digitally enhanced versions.  Mean while, LOTR movies leave so much out when comparing movie to book.  I’ve only read a few small portions of the books and though there is incredible depth to the movies, it hardly captures intensity of the chapters I read.

I ponder how do the movies based on the section hikes of Cheryl Strayed on the PCT “Wild” and Bill Bryson’s “A Walk in the Woods” will capture their back stories? I found their stories to be less of the trail and more of why or how come they were hiking.  Does the movies capture her past? Will the lust for town come true for him?

Why so with and where am I going?  Easy, when one comes across a hiker please just don’t think ‘another dirty almost homeless bum encased in gortex’ or ‘an inconsiderate piece of hiker trash’  sure we are going to be dirty or we may laugh like there’s no one around.  There is shared experience in both and each have a rich back story to share.

I hitched via bus through Chicago long before I realized how adventurous I’d become.  As I took the shake rattle and sway transportation method called ‘the El’ people looked at a not so clean cut kid with a guitar and knapsack with a blanket rolled tied to.  I wondered what people thought of me then.  When I asked which stop I needed for the hostel, the person I asked sounded surprised on how polite I was.  They neither knew my story only had a perception.

As I stepped into work today, I got a few shocked looks, and comments of curiosity.  Unlike those looks in Chicago, I know these folks and yet we don’t know each other.  Is that long haired dude someone who likes to wear his hair long?  Or the gal with really short hair, is that really by choice?  What may be a common looking tattoo, is it really a normal tattoo or is there a deeper meaning behind it?  Much like movies and books, there’s a lot more behind what is seen then viewed even with the familiar.

My blog is more than just about me hiking the AT.  I chose on purpose not to start from scratch.  I’ve chosen to let what I’ve written in the past remain.  What for? Easy, the greatest books are made from a lot of short chapters.  Movies can’t explore the details within the pages of books even with the most skilled of writers working with the most skilled directors.

Where’d then did my hair go?  Hint it relates to this entry… http://preyingjaws.blogspot.com/2007/06/cancer-remains.html and ties into this organization http://www.locksoflove.org  somehow it’s become a major part of my story whether shared or unshared.

Ask the book for the details, forego the movie…

Hike on…

Infamous

Infamous, claim to fame, that guy.

Any title, any cringe, any brag point, call it what you will.  I will proudly say, "I am that guy..."  okay I don't want to go that far.  In and around the office one can lay low and never be known by something other then a guy who comes faithfully to work, be know for keeping things light hearted, taking on projects, or even be the guy that folks cringe for one reason or another.  We are all known for something even if it is nothing.

I can faithfully say I've become known for a waffying smell that permeates the office every lunch since last June of '13.  A waffying smell that is undeniable.  I will lay claim to the guy who pops microwave popcorn.  I even have my own secret I am sharing with you.

Hover around the microwave, listen for the slowing of the pops, and never let the time exceed 3 minutes.

No, that's only a small portion of the secret.  The rest is on the pictured bag.  Now, I do recognize that LifeHacker does list brown paper bags as one thing never to microwave for they may contain any number of additives in the proccessing that make it unhealthy for you.  As a side note that article just appeared in the last week or so.  Please use your own descression.

In near 200 bags, I've only brought one to the point of self ignition.  I mindlessly for got that the microwave I was using is the one that doesn't enjoyably pop favorably.  I kept hitting add 30 seconds until 4 minutes passed and smoke more then waffed into thy face upon entry into that cooking chamber.  I immediately brought the contents to the sink and did not cease to flood the now chemically enhanced contents with dihydrogenoxide in liquid form until no more.

I do beg the pardon, even of today, of those who lively put up with breakroom activities near their positions of diligence.  I do say though of all the bags popped, I've only brought one to the point where the nose cring of awfullness.  Most the time, 'tis the smell that awakens the desire to consume sustinence or make a stretch at mid day.

Now there are to many to list here in honor so for the noted: Dale, Dell, JamieLynn, Tom, the late Jim T, Nelly, Joel, Sussie, and most notably of all who posted the sign that began it all Carolee.  Thank you.

Now to whom shall the torch be passed? Who desires to consumate the starting of training on how to master the microwave? To whom shall pick up the mantel of desireous senses to announce mid day provissions are needed?

Now, to my friends, never fear, the pop is making way to the trail.  I've taken to mastering it in a kettle the size of your desktop beverage container.  A little oil, a little heat, and carefull attention to the sizzel over open flame.  A simple amount not to lift of the top and so goes the announcement of dessert to share.  Please let me shake a little into an open hand or container.

Snack healthy and hike on...

Generic FAQ Video

I came across this video a while ago and it's quirky.  It does address somethings rather humorously about some of the typical conversations I have with folks at work.