• Check out Waldo Jaquith's page. He's planning to hit the trail on April 15th with his computer and cellphone, updating his webpage daily as he hikes north.
• Duffbuster's son has a page tracking his dad's hike.
  

• Some Non-AT Current Walks :

• Walking the Pacific Crest Trail
• A Page of an Ongoing Walk - somewhat parallel to the route of the AT. Tony Cohen is following the route of the Underground railroad from Washington to Canada.
• Two women are walking from ALaska to Argentina.

 3/1/1996
RE: 1996 Thru Hike of the Appalachian Trail
          Richard and Kathleen Kushman

Beginning of journey...

This is the first, I hope, of many updates from the Appalachian
trail.  Now while  flying to Georgia to begin our  hike  seems like
a good time to reflect on the last very hectic three months. Call
this a pre-hike equipment evaluation. We have read everything we
could find, talked to many other hikers and listened to the sales
people make their case for what they sell. We think we have chosen
our equipment wisely, time will tell.

Here is what we did ...

PACKS ...............    KK - Lowe sirocco
                    RK - Osprey Helix

We tried on many and with weight. We bought the packs that  felt
the most comfortable, period.
There are many high quality packs available both external and
internal frame we ended up picking internal because they simply
felt best. 

BOOTS........       KK - Vasque Super Hiker
                    RK - Raichle Mountain Guide

What's to say, both good quality and they felt best to us.

TENT......     Mountain Hardware
               Windlight III

We just liked it. Plenty of room, excellent quality, and not too
heavy for two people.

SLEEPING BAGS ..... KK - Cats Meow - NF
                         RK - Big Kazoo - NF

We pretty much followed the recommendations of others. Synthetic
fill (Polyguard) was thought best. Then why did I get a down filled
bag? I needed room and the Big Cat (NF) was very comfortable but
didn't compress nearly enough, unless we took no food. The Big
Kazoo offers the space and actually compresses smaller than the
Cats Meow. I will certainly have to keep it dry.

RAIN GEAR :..  KK - Mountain Hardware
                    RK - Mountain Hardware

Triple Gortex jackets, fit good and received good rating in
Backpacker. We opted for less expensive pants just to get us
through the first few weeks.

WATER FILTER ...    PUR Hiker

I read all the first hand reports and complaints I could find on
Compuserve, AOL, and the Net There were a few different filters
that some people thought excellent The only filter that had no
complaints about clogging was the Hiker. initially I was concerned
that the pore size (.5) would not be  small enough but several
hikers were not happy with clogging and stopped using a filter with
no side effects. The Hiker seemed a safe bet for this trail.

STOVE          Camping Gaz Tristar

This choice was interesting in that CW says a MSR Whisperlight. We
liked the ease of use and safety of the Gaz. Cartridges are much
more available now and some people have been known to mail drop
them, two of the 270 cartridges weigh one pound...we will see on
this choice.

FOOD      Alpine Aire 

We got a good bulk discount on backpacking meals. Really simplified
mail drops and planning. Good variety, dinners only, we purchased
approximately 130 and some deserts.

We are sending updates with a Sharp Zaurus, which is a small
computer like device. It weighs one pound, we plug into a phone and
link through Compuserve.

Our gear choices will have much less to do with our success than
the mental drive and spirit we need to accomplish an adventure like
The Appalachian Trail.

RK - KK
No trail names yet.

We shipped our packs by UPS to Wes Wesson, Kathleen's pack weighed 32# and mine weighed 39#, without water, Zaurus, and about 4# misc. items. Wes and his wife Dixie picked us up and brought us to Amicalola Falls Lodge for a $75.00 fee, which is very reasonable. We had originally wanted to be dropped off closer to the start and avoid a long approach hike, however, Wes was arrested by the Feds for providing a service without a permit on Federal Land and given a fine. Amicalola is state property and that's as far as he will go, who can blame him. We spent a very comfortable night at the lodge.

Day 1 - Saturday 3/2/96 - 7.1 miles

Filled up on a buffet breakfast, signed the register, and began approach hike to Springer Mt., saving just over a mile by not going back to the welcome center. Mostly uphill and the last mile was tough.
Took picture at plaque on top of Springer, cold and very windy so we didn't linger to enjoy to overlook, then continued to Springer Mt. Shelter. We've made it to the start.

Shelter was full - no one believed there would be this many thru hikers this early in the season. Mostly young college age people. We pitched our tent, ate dinner and went to bed at 4:30 - woke up 8:30 p.m. - this was a new experience. Cold and windy 25 degrees. Went back to sleep - nothing else to do. Stayed plenty warm in sleeping bags.

Day 2 - Sunday 3/3/96 7.6 miles

Water left outside of tent froze, (just right for a rum & coke) and Gaz canisters were not as efficient for breakfast. Water in tent was fine and canisters will stay in my sleeping bag.

There is no level ground in GA - up and down today to Hawks Mt. shelter. Couple of new members to group, "Cookie" (over 50), and Dusty with Kokomo a Golden Retriever. Dusty's partner already quit. Still cold but Kath & I built a camp fire and finally got everyone talking. Fifteen exhausted people do not make for a party. Whole camp awakened at midnight when Dusty's dog attacked Kath when she headed for privy - they only frightened each other. Only "Cookie" has a trail name so far.

Day 3 - Monday 3/4/96 9 miles

Gaz worked better this morning after I slept with canisters but did slow down for second boiling. It seems if I shake the canister it perks up some.

Killer day - up and over three mountains. No level ground.... no level ground...no level ground. Made it to Gooch Gap - steep hike up to shelter, found note from Ann Marie & Craig telling us everyone was down the trail at better level ground - we even carried extra water - tough at end of day. We at least got to sign the register.
Trail names are starting to develop Mike took "MacGuyver" , Paul took "QTip" three college girls Amie, Meg, and Lidi took "Turtle", "Yoda", and "ET". we decided on "Download" and "Nexmo" for ourselves.

RK = "Download" - how we send updates
KK = "Nexmo" - short term goal - next motel

We were visited by a 30ish man with a big knife on his belt and a mug of beer in his hand - he took up conversation with Nexmo then went across forest road and visited with 4 boys camped there. He said he lived nearby but had Florida plates on his car - some of the boys had just seen a rerun of Deliverance expressing mild concern, but all was well.
We helped Yoda, Turtle and ET hang their food, it took two lines and weighed at least 50 lb. (I am not kidding) they ate well . We bought some cheese and peanuts from the girls - our food was low, tasted wonderful. Warmer weather today feels good. We ate at a more normal dinner time and went to bed at 8:45, calm pleasant night.

Day 4 - Tuesday 3/5/96 9.2 miles

Pushing now for Neels Gap. We stayed at an area called Jarrard Gap - no shelter but a good camp site. Made camp, ate, and went to bed. Seven others camped there, the four boys only under tarps. Thunder and heavy rain all night, stayed dry and cozy. No sign of Dusty or Cookie, somewhere behind. Only 5.2 miles to Neels Gap and food and showers. To put it mildly, we stink. You don't notice others because your own fumes are so overpowering. The Gaz stove is easy, the Alpine Aire dinners are easy, just boil water. Some of the hikers are quite elaborate with their dinner preparation. Combining many ingredients and cooking for a long time, these hikers do need white gas in cold weather.

Day 5 - Wednesday 3/6/96 5.2 miles

We had 'fun' breaking camp in the rain.... off by 8:33. This was the day for Blood Mt. which is the highest peak in GA. on the AT. The rain was very heavy and the decent would be very steep. We thought it prudent to take a blue blaze trail around Blood Mt. to avoid terrain above our capabilities. We saved .2 of a mile distance and as it turned out we each fell once anyway, no injuries. Water was cascading down the mountain at many places creating good size gushing streams to cross, very pretty, very wet, very muddy, lots of rocks to cross.
Yahoo ..... Neels Gap !!
A beautiful store ... Walasi-Yi Center, great backpacking supplies. The hostel was overflowing, loaded with young people hiking the trail. More due in with nowhere to stay unless they spend for a cabin. Dorothy was very kind and let us download our mail at the store even though she was extremely busy. Chet picked us up for a dry warm night in our "Rustic" Goose Creek Cabin. They will do our laundry and we can take a shower ... close to heaven.

Day 6 - Thursday 3/7/96 Layover Day No Miles

Continued heavy thunder showers all last night and rain continuing most of today. What radio I could hear made it clear weather was going downhill ...They are calling for possible snow and freezing rain.

Cookie and the three girls were at Goose Creek last night as well, no sign of Dusty and Kokomo, Dusty's knee was very sore and we think he has left the trail. Everyone except some of the young strong boys are laying low. Expected low tonight 5 degrees. We are not fools ... it is bitter cold outside with a -22 degree wind chill.

We have moved to a lovely cabin (Blood Mt. Cabins) no phone but George Case, the proprietor, is very generous, he gave us 3 beers (it's a dry county), a TV, and movies to watch. The wind is howling and the temperature is dropping, weather is getting worse. Rumor has it a woman was taken off the trail yesterday because of hypothermia.

We are really praying for those young men and women still on the trail. Robin is a young woman hiking alone, she's out there ... MacGuyver and QTip are out there and their gear was wet.

George came by with some candles, that's right the power is out. A true winter storm ... at least we are safe. George says it should be fixed tonight, down here in sunny GA.

George was right the power was only off a little over an hour. We have a fire going but the wind is creating a backdraft ... the smoke alarm works fine.

Day 7 - Friday 3/8/96 Layover Day No Miles The ground is white...

We put our thermometer outside ... it says 8 degrees (single digit) ... and still plenty of wind. Atlanta is reporting 20 degrees & -10 wind chill ... much lower here in the mountains.

The hospitality we have received from everyone during our layover is outstanding !!!
George let us use a car so we went into Blairsville for groceries. We then stopped at the Walasi-Yi Center (backpacking store etc.) and had our packs checked and fitted properly by a pro ... Jeff Hansen. Jeff and his wife Dorothy run the business and are a backpackers best friend.
THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT..... We never received sound advice from any sales person during our search for packs. Until Jeff, we never found anyone who really new how to fit packs ... just vertically measuring your back doesn't do it. If you can find someone that fits your pack properly (with weight 40-50 lb. for the AT), buy from that person. Oh yes, and stop and see Jeff Hansen at Neels Gap anyway .....

It seems to us now that Dana and Osprey have the best suspension systems on the market. Check these brands out, but remember, regardless of brand name, proper fit will lessen the pain.
We met another couple closer to our age. Kate & Reilly from New Jersey. They sold their Cape May Bed & Breakfast and are hiking the trail. We look forward to seeing them along the way...

Talk about hospitality, Rubin from another cabin, gave us a T-Bone steak, said he had extra Maybe the Clearinghouse Sweepstakes will visit us here....... .

Day 8 - Saturday 3/9/96 Layover Day No Miles

Temperature this morning 5 degrees, the trees on top of the mountain still covered with ice ... less wind though. Forecast looks better, expected low of 23 but a high of 43 on Sunday, and getting better all next week. We will be setting out early Sunday morning. This has been a long layover and we have miles to make up ..... maybe in June ...
Trimmed our gear ... mailing home about 4 lb.
Next download point, and our first mail drop, will be The Blueberry Patch Hostel.

"Download" & "Nexmo"
AT - 1996 GA to ME

UPDATE - BLUEBERRY PATCH

Day 9  -  Sunday  3/10/96  10.6 miles

Left Neels Gap about 10 a.m., feels good to be making progress
again. The first shelter, Whitley Gap, is 1.2 miles off the trail.
This makes for a 2.4 mile round trip just to stay at that shelter.
Low Gap shelter is only 4.4 miles further, let's see, (4.4-2.4= 2
mile hike to Low Gap). How do you like my NEW Math?
Hiking can be like driving a car. I was driving with Nexmo close
behind. We arrived at Cow Rock so I, like a man, pushed on to the
nearest trail, ignored the data book and dismissed the fact that
white blazes were missing. I descended for about .2 of a mile
looking hopefully for the next white rectangle. Well, Nexmo
prevailed, we climbed back to the top of Cowrock, followed the
instructions in the book and continued on the AT. Unfortunately I
will be reminded of this for at least a month but there is a 
bright side, Nexmo had no weapon.
 This was a long day for us  and we had to make camp and eat dinner
after dark, this will not become a habit. 
We were alone at this shelter with a pleasant babbling brook  but
it was a very cold night, even the water bottles in our tent were
filled with crushed ice in the morning.
Notes in the register by Tim indicate that the house mouse gave
birth in his pack, but no mention of adoption, also noted was that
a ranger came by during the cold spell to check on the hikers ...
they all made it. 

***** BLUE BLAZE ABOUT DOWNLOADS  ****
     We are using a Zaurus ZR-5800FX by Sharp 
     to up/dn load our e-mail. It has 2M of
     memory and I have added a 2M flash card
      for backup. Compuserve Companion is a
     built-in feature and works like a charm.
     The screen is backlit if needed and the
     keyboard is large enough to be usable.  
     There are many other good features as
      well and  so far it  has proven to be a
     good choice. Total weight 1 lb.
******************************************

Day 10  - Monday  3/11/96  7.2 miles

The profile for this day was somewhat promising, no big ups. Still,
we were certainly ready to stop at Blue Mountain shelter by 3:00
p.m. Sunday had taken its toll. 
We met a very interesting group. Hannibal, Pappy, Weightless, and
Cyclops all fast and apparently professional hikers. Hannibal, a
very engaging Brit, said he had started the trail in January, got
to Pennsylvania, turned around and  has now started over because
there were no other hikers and he missed people. Pappy, a trail
hardened 60ish Lithuanian took delight in demonstrating, with a
walking stick, the killing techniques the U.S. Army taught him
during the Korean War. Weightless and his dog Barney arrived about
4:00 p.m. after doing 20 miles from Neels Gap (fast hiking), Barney
though looked exhausted. Cyclops said he had thru hiked in 1993 and
was just doing a section for fun. Hanibal claimed in some areas he
had done 30-35 miles a day, traveling light - except for the
camcorder and battery charger he carries.
Pleasant night, starting to get warmer but still to cold to linger
outside after dark. The sun's going down, time for the sleeping
bag.
I tried leaving my pack in the tent vestibule for the night. The
mice thought it was a carnival ride and made such a racket
exploring every pocket they kept me awake. Bringing it into the
tent helped quiet the night.

Day 11  - Tuesday  3/12/96  7.7 miles

Two big ups today, Rocky and Tray Mountains. We headed for Tray
Mt. Shelter, and the pros headed for Deep Gap shelter, which is
twice as far, so we don't plan on seeing them again.
Arrived at Tray Mt. Shelter about 4:00 p.m. and had our choice of
several pretty overlooks. The Georgia hills are spread out below us
for miles but, it is still too cold to enjoy the view after sunset.
So it's into our bags as the lights below twinkle on. 
The immediate shelter area here is strewn with trash, there is no
register and the privy seat has been broken. Conditions like this
have not been typical and certainly are not the results of thru
hikers 

The trail is quite muddy in places and sliding is very easy. We
will continue to take it slow, like we have a choice, until our
mountain legs arrive.

********   BLUE BLAZE ABOUT FEET  *******
Looks like we chose boots wisely. No blisters, no black toes.
DOWNLOAD  - I use Thorlo trekking socks and Vaseline all over my
toes. When I tried a thin liner sock it really raised havoc,
probably too much heat.
NEXMO uses Thorlo light trekking socks and a thin liner sock, also
a few patches of moleskin.
The secret, I think, is to stop as soon as you feel any twinge and
fix the problem. Don't wait until after the next hill.
*********************************************
 Day 12  - Wednesday  3/13/96  10.6 miles

We are on our way by 9: a.m., which is a new record. Breaking camp
each morning starts off with the most difficult task of the day,
simply standing. My goal, if not Nexmo's, is to reach Deep Gap
Shelter by 2:00 p.m. This would give us a choice of staying there
or continuing on to Dick's Creek Gap, another 3.5 miles.
We reached the Shelter area at 2:03 p.m. and the profile showed no
big ups. Reaching Dick's Creek means a motel room, shower, regular
food, and calling home, we pushed on.
There we are, standing next to Rt. 76 with our thumbs out and
trucks and cars whizzing by. Now, here is where luck enters the
picture. Gary Poteat decided to put his van back on the road.
Naturally he wanted to take a test drive and, God bless him, he
turns right out of his driveway. Might as well see if any hikers
are up by the trail. Well, we were, and the angel with the ATC
patch on his cap brought us to his home, The Blueberry Patch. 
Gary and his wife Lennie are just wonderful people. Providing a
friendly place to stay, a great breakfast, and a ride back to the
trail. The Blueberry Patch Hostel is well known among hikers.
Remember the three girls?  Yoda, Turtle, and ET,  affectionately
known as the "Cheese Girls" (they carried a 5 lb. block of
mozzarella We caught them at the Blueberry Patch. Meg (Yoda) had a
garden of blisters on her feet so they stayed an extra day.
Hopefully she used the prescription antibiotic ointment we gave her
and is on the mend.

*** FOR  RELATIVES OF THE CHEESE GIRLS ***
We know you are watching ...
They are delightful, courageous young women doing just fine.
*********************************************
The Patch was our first mail drop and it was great to receive other
mail as well, including goodies from Eleanor (Nexmo's sister). We
did not sleep at the Patch but only because we wanted the privacy
of our own motel room. David Shakespeare (Shakespeares' Taxi)
brought us to Lake Chatuge Lodge. Very nice modern accommodations
about a mile walk to town. The lodge is new and not listed in any
hiker guides we saw. A washer and dryer are also on premises 
All the people at the lodge have been very helpful They picked up
a pizza for our dinner.

Day 13  - Thursday  3/14/96  layover no miles

We got a ride into town, mailed a package of extras to Franklin NC,
and shopped for supplies. Now we have to stop at Franklin and check
out the motels.
The taxi is picking us up at 7:30 a.m. Friday and bringing us to
the Blueberry Patch for breakfast. Gary and Lennie have only three
hikers staying the night and have made room for us to join them. 

Next update  from North Carolina - Goodbye to Georgia.

"Download" & "Nexmo"
AT - 1996 GA to ME

Day 14  - Friday  3/15/96  10.5 miles

What a wonderful start. David picked us up promptly at 7:30 a.m.
and whisked us to the Blueberry Patch. We formed a small "Trail
Family" with Stomper, Artemis, and Nattygann, as we held hands
around the table while Lennie asked for God's blessing. A splendid
breakfast of Lennie's very light pancakes, sausage, biscuits,
coffee, juice, and blueberry syrup (ala Blueberry Patch) was
enjoyed by all. 

Nexmo tried on a knee brace she found in the grab box at the Patch
(we left food). It was left by a friend of Stomper's and it fit
perfectly. Apparently her knee was bothering her more than she let
on and the brace may help. Stomper and Artemis are a young couple
hiking together and Artemis had good EMT advise for Yoda about
those blisters.
The contribution for lodging and, in our case, breakfast, included
a ride back to the trail. When Lennie drove Nattygann (a woman
about our age hiking alone) and us back there were at least 8 or 10
hikers waiting to catch a ride to the Patch. It was going to be a
busy day for Gary and Lennie. We also saw two of the Cheese Girls,
Turtle and ET heading back to the Patch. Where was Yoda and her
blistered feet?

Our goal today would be Bly Gap, North Carolina. There was a light
rain with thunder in the distance. We found ourselves putting rain
gear on and off. All you veteran backpackers know how to make the
rain stop ... put your rain gear on. Unfortunately the reverse is
also true.

We stopped for lunch at Plumorchard Shelter just as a T-storm hit,
complete with hail. We shared this refuge with Icicle and his dog
Angus who were doing a section. As the sky brightened, we continued
and bumped into Stomper and Artemis who had news of the Cheese
Girls. Yoda would go to Rainbow Springs Campground to recover and
await Turtle and ET hiking the trail. That sounded reassuring to
us.
Friday was a long day for us, but we made it to North Carolina. We
settled in for a chilly night alone at Bly Gap.

Day 15  - Saturday  3/16/96   7.7 miles

Weather seemed better, faint sun, we took the mandatory pictures at
the gnarled tree and began to curse whoever it was that designed
the immediate trail North from Bly Gap. B-a-a-a-d up. We stopped at
Muskrat Shelter for lunch and checked the register. Two more hail
storms hit before we arrived at Standing Indian Shelter.

Mark (no trail name yet) an engineering graduate thru hiking, was 
at the shelter, as well as Ed Brown, and Lee Tade who were just out
for a one nighter. Ed looked at us in a peculiar way, like he knew
us. After some idle chit chat he asked, "Are you the Kushmans"? Ed
and Lee are from Chattanooga, and we have never been there. Well
then, Ed pulls out a print out of the Appalachian Home Page Trip
Report..... What are the chances?

Our tent kept us warm and cozy during a pretty cold and windy
night. Ed jealously mentioned our log sawing during the night
making me wonder about our noise pollution

Day 16  - Sunday  3/17/96  11.5 miles

Standing Indian Mountain was before us. I never thought I would use
the words (good) and (up) together. We are either starting to get
in shape or this was simply a good up. The rest of the day was very
pleasant as well, sunny, and very reasonable terrain. 
We only met one other hiker all day, Iz-R and his dog Chance, going
South, looking for the Blue Grass Boys. Very clever name, reminding
me of Johnny Mathis.
Camped alone at Betty Creek Gap. A warm evening turned into a cold
night with crystallized condensation.

Day 17  - Monday  3/18/96   9.1 MILES

Only 10.1 miles to a shower, laundry, and homemade chili. Rainbow
Springs Campground lies only one mile off the trail and because God
loves Nexmo, it is down hill. 
We played leap frog with four college boys. Coffeebean, Captain
Chaos, Plamona, and It's All Good who luckily had picked up a shirt
that I dropped the day before. "Trail magic."

Yoda was in fact at Rainbow Springs and bored to death waiting for
ET and Turtle. She visited a doctor in Franklin and he gave her a
brush for foot torture. Believe it or not her spirits were high and
she was anxious to get back on the trail. But  ... PLEASE YODA ...
not with those boots.
We rented "Rustic Cabin #4", showered, and did laundry. The chili
was very good and, in my opinion, the highlight of Rainbow Springs.
Box Car (a large 60ish man) was talking a mile a minute about
loosing 45 lbs. since Springer. With no obvious limbs cut off, that
seemed a little much. He brought news about Cookie being a day or
two ahead and Thunder & Lightening a day behind.
We met Sharon and Bronco, a young couple cursed with the flu since
starting. Sharon is resisting a trail name on principle, we'll call
her "No Name". Yoda, No Name and Bronco joined us at #4 for a warm
evening social. Staying up late and sharing our trail experiences
was very enjoyable. 

Day 18  - Tuesday  3/19/96   3.1 MILES

Cold day. The forecasters called for snow in the mountains and they
hit the bullseye. Interesting and delightful would describe our
hike from Wallace Gap to Winding Stair Gap. Interesting because of
the hauntingly beautiful blizzard like conditions. Delightful
because we were slack packing and had arranged for a warm car ride
to the Franklin Motel. Buddy, from Rainbow Springs Campground,
provided this wonderful service.
Snow continued all day and into the night. The mountain regions
were reporting very high winds as well, making the decision to stay
put very easy.

Day 19  - Wednesday  3/20/96   No Miles
Snowflakes sprinkling down, windy and cold. Was this really the
first day of Spring? Good day for napping, shopping, and eating. 
Reports are coming in about 18 in. of snow in the mountains. The
trail is really not passable at any reasonable speed. We had hoped
to continue by Thursday but as more and more hikers came off the
mountain we realized that conditions were pretty bad.

Duffbuster, Blister Sister, Artemis, Stomper, The Cheese Girls, Zak
Going North, Coffeebean, Ralph and Alice (the Honeymooners),
Thunder, Lightning, The Quiet Man, and Homebrew have all come off
the mountain and taken refuge here in Franklin. Sharon and Bronco
are at Rainbow Springs along with at least six others including a
free lancer for National Geographic taking pictures and writing a
story. Coffeebean headed North and got to the first shelter but
decided to return. He left extra food for those still at the
shelter. Ralph, had 18 inches of snow bury their Mountain Hardware
tent Tuesday night, but it held up fine. He had to periodically
clear snow away for venting.

Several of the hikers met Doctor Green and Johnny Quest at Rainbow
Springs Tuesday. They were dubbed "The Clean Team" because of their
starched and pressed appearance after fifteen trail miles. No one
knew how they did it but all were a little jealous.

       *********    PARENTS AND FRIENDS    *********
We are aware that many are watching this page for updates and news
of loved ones on the trail. We will try our best to mention all the
hikers we meet and relay any grapevine tidbits. We have heard of no
one in danger. The brave souls that have remained in shelters are
hunkered down and waiting it out. Probably quite bored.           
        *******************************************

Snow continued to fall into the night. I thought the white
mountains were in New England.

Next Update - From Franklin before we leave.
"Download" & "Nexmo"
AT - 1996 GA to ME

Date: 22 Mar 96 12:02:23 EST
From: Richard Kushman <70304.1011@compuserve.com>

Day 20  - Thursday  3/21/96   No Miles

The weather is slowly improving, if it is snowing in the mountains it can 
only be flurries. Sharon and Bronco moved into Franklin along with six 
others. Rainbow Springs Campground was not a favorite with any hiker we 
spoke with. The shower was described as a meat locker. Soap and towels 
were only available for an additional charge. The bunkhouse and hospitality 
were not to the level normally found on the trail. Our own stay was in 
their best cabin which was tolerable for one night. You will find Franklin 
much more comfortable but you really have to get to Winding Stair Gap and 
catch a ride.
We all pitched in and Zak Going North rented a van. This gave us wheels 
to the West Gate Shopping area. Fourteen climbed in for the first load. 
After the second load of hikers arrived the Three Eagles Outfitter store 
was full to the brim. YODA BOUGHT NEW BOOTS. This layover has been great 
for her feet and a new pair of Asolo 530 boots should solve the blister 
problem. 
The Hiking Mob ate at Western Sizzlin this night and only Coffee Bean was 
talking about hitting the trail on Friday. We all thought he should take a 
snow blower and blaze away. Sharon has reluctantly taken the trail name 
"Puddin", but she is still kicking and screaming about it. 
Chest high drifts are being reported on the trail. Looks like Saturday may 
be the next day of hiking.
This layover carries only one advantage for us. We are from Connecticut and 
the UCONN Huskies are in the sweet sixteen and play Friday night.
GO UCONN.

"Download" & "Nexmo"
_________________________________________________________________________

Date: 22 Mar 96 22:32:27 EST
From: Richard Kushman 
Subject: Last Franklin Update

Day 21  - Friday  3/22/96   No Miles

The morning was still chilly but the sun was shining and the temperature 
was expected to rise. We met Kurt who came back to Franklin after trudging 
through deep snow. He decided to wait until Sunday to continue and allow 
for the sun to work. Thunder and Lightning left to hike from Wallace Gap 
and returned after getting to Winding Stair. The night promised 18 to 22 
degree temperatures which was not inviting. We understand Dr. Green and 
Johnny Quest have skipped ahead closer to Wesser.

Most of the other hikers as well as ourselves were planning to leave 
Saturday. The forecast looked good and we might have to pay property tax 
in Franklin if we stay longer.

Dinner this evening for thirteen at the Hickory Ranch. Suddenly a 
distinguished looking gentleman is shaking my hand and introducing 
himself as John Newman "Oliver Twist", husband of "Possum Poop Patty". 
John has followed our updates and knew where to find us. He is an avid 
hiker and trail angel.....What are the chances.

We heard a rumor that the Smokies were closed but a call to the park 
proved otherwise. The ranger did say many hikers had left the park 
because of snow.

*** BLUE BLAZE ABOUT TRAIL MAINTENANCE **
Considering the storm damage we have seen, especially in Georgia, the 
amount of work extended by all the men and women of all the trail clubs 
is outstanding. They keep people like ourselves safely hiking The 
Appalachian Trail. Thank you ... one and all.
***************************************** 
Tomorrow we go hiking.

"Download" & "Nexmo"

Day 22 3/23/96  8.2 miles 


Finally back on the trail. We were shuttled to Winding Stair Gap and began
our first snow hike. Most of the Franklin group had to return to Wallace
Gap but Thunder and Lightning had also slack packed Wallace to Winding
Stair and we started together. Our goal today was Wine Spring campsites. 

Thank God a few strong hikers had blazed the trail leaving their footsteps
and walking stick tracks for us to follow. We experienced everything from
ankle deep slush to two or three foot drifts. Slow and very unfriendly
would certainly describe the conditions. 
The profile from here to Fontana Dam looks hard enough, the snow just adds
another demanding AT experience.  We reached Wine Spring and set up camp
on the only piece of bare ground available. Someone had clearly suffered
the storm at Wine Spring. Thunder and Lightning soon arrived and we all
stomped down the snow forming a new tent sight, ate dinner, and called it
a day.. 

Day 23 3/24/96  7.6 miles 

Another day of mostly snow hiking but some improvement. Mud is the
replacement in many sections but just as slippery. Early in the day with
the trail still frozen the footing is somewhat better but wet and slick
soon follow the afternoon thaw.  We met Mike "Sasquatch" today as he was
trying to catch his friends. Sasquatch's knee was slowing him down
possibly meaning some time off at Wesser.  We found a semi clear tent
sight on the ridge above the Cold Spring Shelter and settled in. Thunder
and Lightning arrived later and along with Sasquatch stayed in the
shelter. 

Day 24 3/25/96 11.5 miles 

Rain started about 7:30 a.m. and continued until noon. Slogging along the
muddy trails was very tedious but at least the snow was being washed away.
Waiting for us at Wesser was the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) and a
motel room (our natural habitat). This along with a 4.5 mile down hill
section to end the day pushed us along.  Hiker panic - no hot water - the
gas heater had failed. We called for help, went to dinner with Thunder and
Lightning, and by the time we returned all was well. A good meal, a hot
shower, and time to dry out, these simple pleasures would almost make the
next day palatable. 

****** NOTHING IS WATERPROOF ******** I did my own informal survey
regarding boots and their ability to keep one's feet dry. Given the
conditions that we experienced on the AT-Trail during this period and
the fact that our feet were quite wet and every hiker we met had wet
feet, regardless of brand of boot, regardless of leather or Gortex or
Shmortex, I will quote Lightning - " NO HIKING BOOTS ARE WATERPROOF
UNLESS MADE OF STAINLESS STEEL" - period.
*****************************************

Day 25  3/26/96  6.9  miles 

The outfitting store at NOC is quite nice. Geared mostly for Kayaking, the
facility and the river training course are quite impressive.  Artemis was
checking into the bunk room as we were leaving. She needed to recover from
the flu and jumped ahead of Stomper, this would give her some much needed
rest. She reported the Cheese Girls and Honeymooners about a day behind. 
With some food items replenished we headed out for a day of pain.
Sassafras Gap Shelter was 6.9 miles ahead and 99% uphill, however, most of
the snow was gone and the trail improving.  The shelter was down in a
hollow and fully populated with five college boys, two from our home
state, Connecticut. We stayed on the ridge above the shelter near the
trail, Thunder and Lightning joined us and we all had a calm night. 

Day 26  3/27/96  9.1  miles 

This was a day of on and off sprinkles and thick fog. Brown Fork Gap
Shelter was the target and as it turned out all we could handle. Entries
in the trail register properly mirrored our opinion of the climb out of
Sweetwater Gap.  Obviously this must be an old section of trail put in
before switch backs were invented - pure hell.  We arrived at the shelter
by 3:00 p.m. and by 4:30 p.m. began to wonder about Thunder and Lightning.
Where were they? Another "Man at the wheel" story explains it all. Riley
(Lightning), was driving and found some orange tape on several trees one
of them marked - AT Relocation - he took that route thinking a problem
existed along the white blazed trail. After stumbling, falling and pushing
through unblazed forest they finally arrived back on the proper trail.
Kate (Thunder) exhibited saintly understanding and control regarding this
little detour.  This shelter was clean and comfortable and the four of us
slept well during a night of continuous rain. 

Day 27  3/28/96  13.4 miles 

Longest day so far. Fontana Dam seemed like a milestone. Next would be 
the Smokies, but first a little R&R at the Fontana Inn.  
Rain continued most of the day with heavy fog draped over all the vistas.
We just continued slogging through the mud up and down, up and down. We
stopped for lunch near a road at Yellow Creek Gap and a produce truck
pulled over for a brief stop. Lightning quickly shmoosed two pints of
fresh strawberries and two tomatoes from the generous driver. Fresh fruit
fuel for the final leg - Trail Magic. 
Both T&L and us had stray dogs follow us for two miles to RT28. They were
looking for food and attention and following hikers for both. What a great
sight when we rounded a corner and there was Fontana Lake, our goal was
reachable.  
Anxious fear left my mouth dry, my feet were screaming and daylight was
waning as I picked up the receiver on the pay phone behind the Fontana Dam
Visitor Center - YES ! - there was a dial tone. The Fontana Inn sent a
shuttle and Thunder, Lightning, Download and Nexmo were all saved. 

Day 28  3/29/96  no miles Mail drop day. 

We got four boxes and envelopes. How can we possibly carry all this.  
Turtle's Mom, Susan, sent us some chocolate covered cherries. We will
carry those deep inside.  
We also received surprise packages from Rande and Bill and Nexmo's fellow
teachers, making our resupply quite simple.  Tomorrow the Smokies. We plan
on going straight through in five or six days. Next report from Hot
Springs, NC in about nine days. 

***** THANK YOU - THANK YOU ******* Many thanks to everyone expressing
their good wishes and interest in our little adventure. If you have
sent e-mail and we haven't replied personally, lack of time is the only
reason.  ***************************************

"Download" & "Nexmo" AT - 1996 GA to ME



Update from Gatlinburg

Date: 05 Apr 96 08:31:51 EST From: Richard Kushman


Day 29  3/30/96  Saturday  6.2 miles 

Partial sun made the early part of this day seem unusually pleasant. The
trail was drying up and footing more reliable. We had planned to reach
Mollies Ridge Shelter but just could not find the energy. The uphill
climb, food laden packs, and the lack of mountain legs were contributing
factors. This made Birch Spring Shelter our first taste of the Smoky
Mountain hovels. 

Clouds soon covered the sky and the mountain chill descended upon us.
Thunder and Lightning were also present and just as impressed with the
night's accommodations as we were. Sasquatch had left with us but twisted
his sore knee and turned back to Fontana and a two week rest. A fire was
started and provided some warmth as the night got colder and rain began to
fall. The rules in the Smokies require hikers to sleep in the shelter
unless it is full. This shelter was nestled on a good size patch of mud
making even tenting here unattractive. Sleep did come as rain fell through
the night.

Day 30  3/31/96  Sunday  9.7  miles 

We expected rain today. The forecast had warned us but also promised
clearing on Monday and continued improvement. We slogged on through heavy
fog and intermittent rain and mist. The temperature was going down and we
thought some flakes were visible, but certainly no vistas were. Everywhere
the trail guide said "splendid views", there were none. The trail was
again turned to mud. The grab your boot and yank it off kind in many
places and the slick go for a ride kind in others. 

We were passed by four young women, we called them the "Power Hikers",
and another young lady named "Swan", all headed for Spence Field
Shelter, our destination as well.

The shelter was full and with mostly women. The area was grassy and a
night in the tent would be pleasant, after all, clearing weather was
expected. Thunder and Lightning are about our age and speed and we have
pleasantly found ourselves together at the end of each day. This was
no exception and they were soon nearby nestled in their tent. Our food
was hung in the shelter and our cold bodies wrapped in sleeping bags.
Knoxville radio suggested tomorrow in the sixties and clearing. Things
were looking up.

Day 31  4/1/96  Monday  6.3 miles

Funny - still raining in the morning. This of course means a wet tent
and more weight to carry. We were sure things would get better. Silers
Bald Shelter would be 11.8 miles and reachable. Guess again.....

We began the hike in the rain but as the temperature fell ice pellets and
snow began to appear. The wind became quite strong and I would use the
term blizzard to describe our little Smokies Hell. The ice and snow
covered the trail, our packs, and our bodies adding even more weight.
Stopping for a break was out of the question, it was simply too cold.
Luckily Derrick Knob Shelter was only 6.3 miles and when it came into view
we felt saved. "Q", a charming young man thru hiking, was there and a
young couple on spring break. We quickly arranged our gear and climbed 
into the sack hoping the shivering would stop.

More hikers began to arrive. Three South bounders, two high school boys
going North, Thunder and Lightning, and the Cheese Girls with their
friends Cracklin Rosie and Walking Otter. That gave us seventeen hikers
in a shelter made for twelve. Next came Larry and Keith a father and
son from Orlando, just out for some fun in the Smokies. Nineteen
people, with more hiking gear than found in most EMS stores, were all
huddled from the storm.

Outside the howling wind and low temperature were background for this
amazing scene as a space was found for each sardine. All arrived
covered with ice. Boots, socks, zippers, everything was frozen. Hung
clothing was frozen stiff. Nineteen backpacks covered the mud floor.
Countless food bags hung above like pendulums. No wood for a fire and
no chance to find any. Cooking dinner, changing clothes and settling
down for the night all accomplished in some unplanned, unspoken  magic
rotation. Calmly, with high spirits and good humor, thanks in part to 
Liddy (ET) - (Liddy is a real trip).

Everyone was safe and getting warm. Tomorrow would be better, after all
the forecast said so.

Day 32  4/2/96  Tuesday  7.2 miles

We lay in our spaces and watched the morning unfold. Nineteen people
would have to cook breakfast, put on frozen boots, change into hiking
clothes, repack all their gear and begin the icy trail. This all taking
place in a space smaller than an average motel room. We waited as each
group left and finally hit the trail at 11:00 a.m. just after the
Cheese Girls.

The sun was shining and blue sky was a reality. "Q" had blazed the
trail so we slushed our way toward Double Spring Gap Shelter as the day
got warmer..

********** COMMENT - PROFILE MAP ******** 
When you get the Smoky Mountain Map first take red enamel paint and 
obliterate the profile section.  You will save yourself much grief. Just 
know you will be going up and down, up and down, regardless of what the 
profile implies.  
******************************************

The shelter was not fit for habitation. The gate was broken, the floor
was half water and half mud, and trash was liberally strewn about.
Pretty much average. Not all, but most tented out for the night.

"Q", The Cheese Girls, Thunder & Lightning and some overnight hikers
were all mingling around the grass area. One gentleman with his son was
having a great time watching the Cheese Girls cook dinner. He said it
was better than television.

Cracklin Rosie thought catching the sunrise on Clingman's Dome would be
a great idea. Very much to my surprise at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday morning,
they along with "Q" filed past our tent with the bright moon above and
Nexmo waving goodbye. Hopefully we will catch them again, we miss them
already.

Day 33  4/3/96  Wednesday  10.8  miles

Our tent was finally dry and lighter. The sun was shining and vistas
were possible. The climb to Clingman's Dome was gradual enough and the
views splendid. The trail was frozen at first, then muddy, and higher
up still covered with snow and ice. We had reached the highest point
on the Appalachian Trail.

Clingman's Dome did not offer that private view for hikers gained
through personal sweat. The view needed to be shared by all. Thru
hikers and tourists climbed to the tower and could see for miles.
Tourists were clearly interested and enthralled with us thru hikers.
They watched and commented. One gentleman offered us orange juice - it
was delicious. As Nexmo was putting on her pack to continue, we clearly
heard from a nearby group - "Oh look, there' s a real hiker".

We arrived at Newfound Gap at 4:30 p.m. and our choice was an
unscheduled stop at Gatlinburg or continue to the next shelter. Nexmo's
and Lightning's stomachs had been queasy, we were all out of toilet
paper, and  a kind gentleman with a pickup truck was willing to bring
these four weary hikers into town. What choice did we have?

The truth is the Smokies had been tiring. Monday's storm had taken a
toll. The trails were a sea of mud and that made for very tedious
hiking. A day off would replenish our spirits and brighten our moods.


********** BLUE BLAZE - SPEED ********** 
You do not have to be a Rocket Scientists to figure out our mileage per
day is low. We are over 50 and physically not in shape for the trail. The
first time we carried full packs was the approach hike. Honestly, if we
had practiced, we may have never begun. 

I was 40 pounds overweight and Nexmo smoked. We did nothing to prepare
for the trail physically but each day now we grow stronger.  We are
amazed by the mileage some of the young athletes can attain. Most of
the hikers we have met are twenty to thirty years younger. Being aware
of your own limits is most important. Pushing beyond your bodies
abilities, especially at first, will damage
the experience. 

Young hikers like Sasquatch, Dusty, and Blister Sister have already left
the trail. Their AT experience over for now. Our goal is to continue and
enjoy the whole experience. The love/hate of the trail, the rest and
relaxation of each new town, and most importantly the wonderful people we
have met and will meet. 

SO ! - SPEED BE DAMNED - HIKE ON - HIKE ON !
*************************************

Next update Hot Springs ...

"Download" & "Nexmo"



Update from Hot Springs

Date: 12 Apr 96 16:16:05 EDT

From: Richard Kushman 


Day 34  4/4/96  Thursday  no miles


Warm and sunny weather made this day seem like a typical Gatlinburg
vacation. All our equipment was again dry, our stomachs full off burgers
and shakes, and our resolve to finish the Smokies renewed. 

We visited the Happy Hiker outfitter and purchased a set of Leki Trekking
poles for Nexmo. Many hikers use them and love them and consider them knee
savers, which is exactly what Nexmo needs. Tomorrow back to the Smokies. 

Day 35  4/5/96  Friday  10.4 miles


Lightning was under the weather, so T&L decided to stay in Gatlinburg. We
had arranged for a taxi and by 9:40 a.m. we were back in the wind, cold,
and fog of Newfound Gap. Beginning again was hard, but as we climbed above
the clouds we were treated to partial sunlight providing us with some
hope that Winter would soon end. Icewater Spring Shelter provided a sunny
spot for a short morning break. This shelter is closed to all except thru
hikers and is by far the cleanest in the Smokies. 

We were treated to several excellent and unique views. The mountains
seemed to rise up out of an endless carpet of cotton candy.  Nexmo fell,
the bad weather tension literally exploded from her lips and thankfully
the distance back to Newfound Gap was too great for the option she was
considering. Bravely, she pushed even harder through the mud and snow to
Pecks Corner Shelter. Plenty of room - the bottom rack held four weekend
hikers, Swing Right, and Indiana Bob. The top rack supported eleven. Three
women, Stinky, Interplanet, and Marmot. Six men, Bearfoot, Brush, Maple
Leaf, Big Dipper, Allgood, Bird, and of course ourselves. The young men
and women took great pains not to crowd this older couple. 

The cold evening was saved with a great blazing fire and guitar music
provided by Maple Leaf. Oh, how that music helped. 

Day 36  4/6/96  Saturday  12.9 miles

Big Dipper, the wonderful gentleman he is, filled our water bag and saved
me a tough morning chore. None the less, we were the last to depart for
Cosby Knob Shelter, which would be our final night in the Smokies. Cold
misty fog again kept any vistas at bay. We just kept slogging through the
miles of mud. The eerie gray ice covered trees providing their own type of
beauty. 

Overcrowding was avoided because the girls and some of the young men
continued on to Davenport Gap Shelter.  Godfather and Turtle (not the
cheese girl) a retired couple joined Bird, Big Dipper, Robert, two Spring
breakers, and us for another cold night in a shelter.

Tomorrow we looked forward to down and out at Davenport Gap.

Day 37  4/7/96  Sunday  8 miles

Exiting the Smokies helped bring out the sun and the down hill hike was
quite pleasant. A warm sunny afternoon was quite a luxury. Anticipating
the traditional Easter Sunday cheeseburger at Mountain Mama's Kuntry Store
spurred us on. The cheeseburger was good and after the Smoky Shelters our
bunkbox accommodations seemed pretty elegant. We had mattresses and a
light bulb, all for just $10.00 each which also included a shower. 

We slept quite well, no mice, no wind, no bitter cold.

Day 38  4/8/96  Monday  9.6 miles

Eight of us thru hikers piled into a pickup truck and were shuttled back
to Davenport Gap by Mr. Mountain Mama ($1.00 ea). Snowbird Mountain was
waiting for us and presented what seemed like, no, what was, an endless
climb. By mid day a light rain was fall ing which turned to snow above
3000 feet, but at least it wasn't heavy snow or bitter cold. The trail
conditions were a great improvement over the mud of the Smokies. We
especially liked the pine needle sections. We descended to Groundhog Creek
Shelter below the snow line. Light rain continued but we managed a
roaring fire to ward off the cold. Godfather and Turtle, Big Dipper,
Chameleon, and October Dawn shared the shelter with us. M&M, Sightseer,
Lobo's Pet, and March Hare with his dog Fool were all tenting. Sleeping
was easy and peaceful. 

Day 39  4/9/96  Tuesday  13.1  miles

More snow had fallen during the night leaving one inch at this elevation
and certainly more above. Today we had to ascend and cross Max Patch
Mountain. Worse than the snow was the return of windy bitter cold
temperatures. When would Spring hiking begin? 

The sun would wink at us from behind the passing clouds only tantalizing
us with a moment of warmth. The long climb helped keep us warm but
stopping for any lengthy break just brought on the shivers. 

The summit of Max Patch was dramatic. We had a clear 3608 view for miles.
The wind howled almost pushing us off balance and brought on an
intolerable face tightening eye numbing cold. We quickly exchanged
pictures with Chameleon and October Dawn and descended into the
protective Laurel. 

A long down hill and short up brought us to the new and nicely done
Roaring Fork Shelter. After a short break and considering the next day
would bring us to Hot Springs we decided to push on. Our Trail Guide did
not list Walnut Mountain Shelter but Wingfoot's Handbook claimed it still
existed. Staying there would save 1.8 miles of uphill climb in the morning
and bring us to Hot Springs sooner.  Wingfoot was correct and although
Walnut Mountain Shelter was old, it was clean and usable. Considering the
number of hikers using the trail I certainly hope this shelter avoids
demolition. Two section hikers from Atlanta, Phyllis and Jina with their
dog Chestnut joined us for another bitter cold mountain night. 

Day 40  4/10/96  Wednesday  13.2  miles

All our water bottles were rattling with ice as we began the up and over
of Bluff Mountain. The thermometer said 208 at 8:45 in the morning with
plenty of breeze. Bluff Mountain reaches higher than Max Patch but is not
a bald, regardless, it was cold and snowy. The mud sections of trail were
frozen stiff so at least the traveling was easier. 

Finally below 2800 ft. the light at the end of the tunnel became visible.
Green ferns, small white flowers, buds on all the trees welcomed us into
another world. The sun's warmth allowed for relaxing breaks as the
occasional smell of Spring welcomed us to Hot Springs North Carolina.

The Cheese Girls were still in town and ET and Yoda joined our group of
twenty hikers for dinner at the Smoky Mountain Diner. ET insisted we tour
their rooms at the Hot Springs Inn (Elmer's) which had the look and feel
of a stately old home. Yoda played piano and ET played guitar and sang for
us. Turtle raved about the Inn's famous dinner while Cracklin Rosy looked
jealous. They were heading out in the morning and hopefully we will catch
them again. 

Day 41  4/11/96  Thursday    no miles

R&R at the Alpine Court Motel. This Hot Springs break is the best yet.
Thru hikers everywhere. Even Weightless, whose dog Barney is now off the
trail, has had an extended stay in Hot Springs. We have run into Wingfoot
several times and his words regarding mileage are very encouraging. -  
"Don't worry, the miles will come."

Nexmo treated herself to a full hour massage. Then another wonderful hour
with Download and a bottle of wine in the Hot Springs Spa. Need I say
more? 

A large group for dinner again where we met Guinness, a charming Irish
hiker. Hot Springs seems to collect hikers and we are no exception.
Another full warm day of rest before hitting the trail would be absolutely
wonderful. The decision is made - we stay until Saturday.

Next Update - from up the trail.

"Download" & "Nexmo"


Update from Erwin

Date: 22 Apr 96 08:55:52 EDT

From: Richard Kushman 


Day 42  4/12/96  Friday    no miles

Bronco, Puddin, Artemis, Stomper have all come into town. Blister Sister,
who is currently off the trail, greeted North Going Zak with shrimp, fresh
strawberries, and Guiness Beer. This certainly sounds like a trail
romance! 

Hot Springs is warm and sunny and a wonderful place for any hiker. We
spent the afternoon sharing wine and conversation with Godfather and
Turtle. Dinner again at the diner while trying to get psyched for hiking
the trail. Tomorrow we leave. 

Day 43  4/13/96  Saturday    11 miles

One last plate of pancakes at the diner, a stop at the Post Office, and a
long freight train through town across the trail contributed to our late
(11:00 a.m.) departure. The sky was overcast with scattered showers
predicted. The climb out seemed steep after two days off but the trail
was dry - no more mud. Rhododendren bushes provided a dry haven during a
short shower but rain held off for most of the day. 

Just as we reached Spring Mountain Shelter the flood gates opened.
Everyone huddled inside waiting for a lull in the storm. March Hare with
his dog Fool, Dre, Turbo Ted, Slider, and Scarecrow had claimed their
bunks. We along with Godfather and Turtle, Chameleon and October Dawn,
and Bronco and Puddin all tented on the ridge above. The temperature
provided our newest experience, it wasn't freezing cold and tomorrow was
going to be warmer. Spring time camping, had possibly arrived.  Scattered
showers continued through the night. 

Day 44  4/14/96  Sunday    15.3  miles

Nexmo thought she bit off more than she could chew but she toughed out a
long day, in fact our longest so far. After a foggy morning, bright sun and
temperatures in the seventies made for an enjoyable day. The first few
miles to Allen Gap were a pleasure until we found March Hare and his dog
Fool at the roadside quitting the trail. A slight cold but mostly a
twisted ankle had convinced him to take a rest. 

The Climb up Camp Creek Bald at mid-day was hot, long, and had us
guzzling water. Then the rocky terrain around Blackstack Cliffs kept us
going slow. Finally at 7:30 p.m. we arrived at Jerry Cabin Shelter.

Everyone had decided to put on the miles, so the shelter was full with
last night's crew as well as the Irish hiker Guinness. Chameleon and
October Dawn were the only ones missing. Our tent was up just before dark
and a fireside dinner finished the day. God bless warmer weather. 

Day 45  4/15/96  Monday    5.9  miles

After making our morning calls from the Jerry Mountain Shelter phone we
turned off the light and went for a walk in the park. The trail was easy
and pleasant. We met Sam Waddle and two other gentlemen on their way to
cut down a threatening tree near the shelter. Sam has been taking care of
this shelter for twenty three years and his hard work and sense of humor
have made it a favorite stop. Flint Mountain Shelter was really too close
but the next shelter was another 8.5 miles. The wind was howling and the
forecast called for thunder showers and heavy rain. Puddin and Bronco were
at the shelter deciding whether to go on or spend the night. Godfather and
Turtle arrived and after a long discussion regarding the weather and wet
tents, we all chose to stay. Chameleon and October Dawn arrived as did
Slider. To justify such a short day we needed a good storm and in fact we
got it - heavy rain, strong winds, sleet, and yes, more snow. 

Godfather and Bronco had rigged tarps over the shelter entrance and this
helped keep us all dry considering the wind. Unfortunately the temperature
was dropping, and we were back to Winter camping. 

Trail magic arrived in the form of Spud Boy. He poked his head through the
tarps and offered us delicious bread and fruit. He had been out hiking for
for a day looking for Zamboni and was camped near the shelter. 
Chameleon and October Dawn brought a homey end to the night with fresh
popcorn, but I can't remember which movie we watched. 

Day 46  4/16/96  Tuesday    12.9  miles

We woke to a freezing cold day with snow falling. Slider decided to leave
with Spud Boy and take a early break in Erwin. He was having trouble
holding down food and perhaps a doctor's visit was in order. 

Only about an inch collected but it remained cold and windy so leisurely
breaks were again difficult. We quickly arrived at Devil Fork Gap where
again Spud Boy had dispensed his magic. Near the road on a set of steps he
had left bags of nuts and candy bars. We, along with Bronco, Puddin,
Godfather and Turtle, shared the booty. 

We began the long climb up Frozen Knob. True to its name we were treated
to wind blown ice dropping from the covered trees. Our own localized ice
storm. We lunched at Hogback Ridge Shelter and discussed campsites with
Godfather and Turtle. The trail guide listed a meadow two miles after 
Sam's Gap which became our goal.

We stopped at a small stream for water and found the meadow sunny and
protected from the heavy winds. The view was pleasant and although still
cold, the night was peaceful.

Day 47  4/17/96  Wednesday    11.6  miles

Big Bald Mountain constituted our long morning uphill climb. The
continuing cold, along with plenty of wind chased us off the summit after
ten minutes of picture taking. After lunch at Bald Mountain Shelter with
Godfather and Turtle, and Chameleon and October Dawn the remaining hike
to Spivey Gap had only two annoying ups. There was a pleasant camp sight
just before the gap but Turtle and Nexmo decided we would walk another
half mile off the trail to a USFS picnic area that promised luxuries such
as a privy, fresh water piped spring, and picnic tables. We enjoyed a sit
down dinner as the night turned calm and clear skies promised a sunny next
day. 

Day 48  4/18/96  Thursday    11.7  miles

Erwin, Tennessee has a motel. Nexmo, Download, Godfather, and Turtle all
agreed after six days in the mountains that visiting that motel, eating
real food, and taking a shower was, well - ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. 

We began early, before 8:00 a.m., the sooner we got there the better. The
trail was not bad, no serious ups, beautiful warm weather, and eventually
glimpses of Erwin in the distance. The temperature off the mountain in
Erwin was 80, needless to say, quite pleasant. 

The item foremost in my mind as we entered Nolichucky Campground was a
cold can of soda. This shortly became the item foremost in my hand as we
began looking for a shuttle into town. Bronco, Puddin, Chameleon, and
October Dawn were staying at the Nolichucky Hostel and were considering a
swim in the cold river. Godfather and Turtle along with us were fortunate
that Tom Hensley had the time and truck for hiker errands. Post Office,
ATM, pharmacy, Taco Bell and the Erwin Motel. Thanks, Tom. 

We had finished this section with absolutely no food remaining. Without
the magic of Spud Boy and Granola bars from Slider we might have been very
cranky. 

*** NOTE *** 
Jenny's Olde Towne Inn is apparently only renting to long term guests. 
The hostel, campground, or the Erwin Motel are a hikers best bet. 
*************************************

Next Update - Down The Trail
"Download" & "Nexmo"



Update from Hampton

Date: 26 Apr 96 07:16:49 EDT

From: Richard Kushman 


Day 49  4/19/96  Friday     no  miles

Today we met Harvey. He is the unofficial hiker shuttle. He drives his
Honda Civic and patrols the Erwin area looking for needy hikers and
supplies them with rides. Harvey does not charge a fee, but only an
unthinking hiker would refuse an appropriate tip. 

When contacting Harvey you just have to get lucky, he does not have a
phone. We arranged a trip to town along with Godfather and Turtle. The
previous day we had not received our package sent first class from Hot
Springs several days earlier. Thankfully I was allowed into the back room
of the Post Office to check the boxes.  There it was, addressed to Richard
& Kathleen - General Delivery - and no last name. The postal worker's
smile said it all regarding fault. Next time, Nexmo will take care of
addressing any package. Lunch at the Elms, into the Honda, and back to the
motel. Arrangements were made with Harvey for our morning shuttle back to
the trail. 

Day 50  4/20/96  Saturday     9.3  miles

Harvey was right on time and four packs and four hikers completely jammed
his car. Rain was clearly coming soon so pack covers were on and we were
ready. The warmer weather made rain less threatening. The plan was to
reach Deep Gap and good campsites which would be 10.8 miles and a pretty
good start for this section. After trekking six miles the the skies roared
with thunder and heavy rains reminded us who controls the heavens. While
the storm was directly overhead we huddled under some Rhododendron and ate 
Snickers bars. 

We plodded on, all the while thinking about tenting in the rain. After
reaching Beauty Spot, which is a natural grassy bald with normally great
views, Nexmo was about to take my picture when a car interrupted her view
as it climbed to the overlook. She looked at me, I looked at her and
within minutes we were in the back seat of a Grand Cherokee headed back to
Erwin for the night. We had still done 9.3 miles and Harvey would bring us
back in the morning. We also began to think more about slack packing. 

Day 51  4/21/96  Sunday    21.2  miles


Harvey was at the motel bright and early for another shuttle so we
discussed our slack packing plan and the die was cast. His Honda only just
made it up the mountain to Beauty Spot. Several stops were needed to cool
the overheating engine. We were let loose with no heavy packs at 9:15 a.m.
and the pick up planned for 6:30 p.m. on top of Roan Mountain. Over
nineteen miles and back to the motel for another comfy night. 

Push, push, push would describe hiking with a deadline. So we pushed. One
advantage, of course, we were making up lost time. The terrain was
beautiful but unforgiving. Emerald green Unaka Mountain, Little Bald Knob,
Bear Town Mountain, and the best for last, Roan High Knob. The never
ending climb of Roan High Knob after already doing 18 miles was simply
painful. Nexmo arrived on the summit at 7:00 p.m. but Harvey was nowhere to
be found. Fifteen minutes later I found Nexmo sitting with two of the
Cheese Girls, ET and Turtle, - Yoda was missing. 

At approximately 4:00 p.m., while ET cooked dinner and Turtle mused about
saying hi to Tom, Yoda left for the privy. She had been gone almost four
hours with no explanation. After rechecking the shelter we headed for
Carvers Gap hoping to find Harvey. He in fact had been there but a gate
prevented his coming to the top parking area and by the time we reached
the bottom he had gone home for dinner. 

Luckily there were three young men picking up their camping gear and one
of them gave us a ride to a gas station in the town of Roan Mt. (Trail
Magic). We called 911 immediately and were soon picked up by the EMS Crew
#2 from Carter County Tennessee We were brought to their headquarters
where they debriefed us and assembled a search and rescue squad, including
dogs. They asked us to stay until their command truck was in place and
said they would help us return to the Erwin Motel. By 11:00 p.m. the
television news was already reporting a lost hiker. Then a local house
fire put more strain on their manpower. We called a cab service and were
finally back in our motel by 2:30 a.m.. Yoda was still missing. Sleep came
only because we had hiked over twenty-one miles. Packs or no packs, we
were exhausted. 

Day 52  4/22/96  Monday   no miles


The local morning news was still reporting a missing hiker. Our minds
created scenarios, none of which made sense or were pleasant. Getting back
to Carvers Gap to be with ET and Turtle was the only option we felt
comfortable with and with almost no sleep hiking was the last thing on our
minds. 

Good news greeted Nexmo's call to the Rescue Station about 9:00 a.m., all
the girls were there and safe. Yoda had gotten sick and disoriented and
spent the night huddled in the forest. The girls were all exhausted but
otherwise fine and had called Sutton Brown for a ride to Hampton and his
hostel. 

We arranged a shuttle with Tom Hensley to Elk Park Campground, which was
our next mail drop. There were no other hikers or campers there and the
rest rooms and showers did not invite. That, along with Nexmo really
wanting to see the Cheese Girls, brought us to the hostel in Hampton as
well. The afternoon was spent reviewing Yoda's previous adventure. 

Our room was lovely and we felt very comfortable in Hampton especially
after a AYCE Chinese dinner with ET, Turtle, and Yoda. 

Day 53  4/23/96  Tuesday   15.7 miles


Sutton drove ET, Turtle, Nexmo and myself to Walnut Mountain Road where we
began slack packing back to Hampton. We began to make up some lost miles.
Yoda stayed at the hostel for a days rest. 

The skies threatened rain and delivered but waiting for us was a hot
shower and dry clothes. Clearly, occasional slack packing could help us
make up for those lost bad weather days. 

Most memorable was the climb down and around Laurel Falls. We were doing
some actual rock climbing, going slow because of the rain.  We reached 
Laurel Fork Shelter after 4:00 p.m. so we took the blue blaze
trail back to town avoiding Pond Flats. 

Day 54  4/24/96  Wednesday   20.5  miles


Another slack packing day, making up some miles. Shuttled out to Rt. 91 and
the AT with the Cheese Girls and Guiness we headed home to Hampton. The
weather could not be better and the terrain more forgiving. This was our
first experience of going South. We met Maple Leaf, Dre, Turbo, Entrophy,
and Lobo's Pet all going the right way. It did seem strange but we were
cutting the distance to Damascus in half and making up time.  

 The terrain was again very pleasant and the view from Vanderventer
Shelter a warm pleasant experience. Many delightful camp sights were
available around Watauga Lake and had we not had a room at the hostel,
would have been very tempting. 

 Twenty miles of slack packing is just as tiring as a normal day with
full pack, at least for us. Making up the miles and time is the one
advantage. 


******* BLUE BLAZE - SLACK PACKING *******


Some hikers clearly believe slack packing is cheating. You must carry a
full pack, (whatever that means), the full distance. Others say it
absolutely doesn't matter how you do the miles. 

There are no referees, coaches, umpires, or judges on the Appalachian
Trail. The trail is not a contest or a game about hiking fast or hiking
far. The trail is a life experience, the meaning of which, differs with
every single person on the path. Any healthy life experience should be
enjoyable and rewarding and that constitutes a meaningful goal. 

So - slack pack - flip flop - skip sections - section hike - power hike -
car hike - blue blaze - what does it matter. Are you having a rewarding,
meaningful and enjoyable time? You have only to ask yourself. 


******************************************


Next Update - Down The Trail

"Download" & "Nexmo"


Date: 29 Apr 96 09:44:40 EDT

From: Richard Kushman 

Update from Damascus


Day 55  4/25/96  Thursday   no miles


The plan this day was to be dropped off at Carvers Gap and slack pack to
Walnut Mountain Road. Sutton could not put together the necessary drop off
and pick up shuttle connections so he suggested we take the day off. I
must admit to being easily persuaded but this leaves a section incomplete
for the time being. 

The Cheese Girls, and Guiness left for Damascus this morning and
Sightseer, Billy Goat, Godfather and Turtle came into Hampton by late
afternoon.  We met Freddy, he is eighty two years old and doing a section
hike. Freddy swears his smoking will kill him some day. Speaking of
smoking, I am truly amazed at the number of hikers that smoke. I expected
some of course, after all Nexmo smokes, but I had hoped for positive
reinforcement for her quitting and just the opposite has occurred. 

This will be our last night in Hampton, which has proven to be a good
place to plan a break from the trail. Avoid Elk Park, come to Hampton, and
enjoy the Hampton "Castle" Hostel, that is our recommendation

Day 56  4/26/96  Friday   21.8  miles

Brian dropped Godfather, Turtle and us off at RT91 and the AT about 8:30
a.m. for another slack packing trip. Godfather and Turtle would head back
to Hampton and we would continue to Damascus. Morning rain slowly gave way
to a partly sunny enjoyable day. 

The section from RT91 to Damascus is probably the easiest we have
encountered as yet. We caught up to ET and Turtle who were being
entertained by a self professed drifter. Though he was not headed for
Damascus he and his dog decided to hike with the girls, in fact he claimed
no destination. We stayed with the girls and the strange but apparently
harmless drifter eventually went his own way. 

Damascus is delightful and clearly a friendly home for all hikers.  "The
Place", a hostel, was overflowing with hikers, many tents were pitched on
the lawn and all the bunks were full. We stayed at the Appalachian Inn,
which is two doors away, and had the entire place to ourselves. Pretty
luxurious camping I must admit. 

My entrance to town gave birth to a new phenomena. Not my actual arrival
but my manner of walking after over twenty one miles on the trail. The
Download Shuffle...... 

********************************

There's a new craze in Damascus and

Everyone's doing it, doing it, doing it

It starts with knee pain, a wince and a groan

It's an aging disease down deep to the bones

Lasting twenty-four hours even the young get down

Just walk twenty miles to the nearest town

Big miles ... big pain

It's the Download Shuffle ...

Ouch ... Ouch ... Ouch

Authored by:

Bronco, Puddin, October Dawn, Chameleon, ET, Godfather and Turtle

*********************************************

Perhaps I should mention that the above creativity was accomplished at
Quincy's over Calzones and ice cold beer. 

Day 57  4/27/96  Saturday   no miles

Day off in Damascus. Take care of mail. New cartridge for water filter.
Bronco and Puddin purchased a new tent and joined us for a seam seal
party. 

Bill Mashburn paid us a visit. Bill has been following our hike on the
internet and sent us e-mail offering any help needed while we were in the
Damascus area. He very generously offered shuttles to Abingdon or would
arrange slack packing if we desired. We decided to stay in Damascus and
not slack pack again right now, but thank you Bill for the "Trail Magic". 

Gutsy arrived today, also known as Wrong Way Johnson. She is incredibly
fast having left Springer on March 27th but her claim to fame is a wrong
turn at Brown Fork Shelter where she mistakenly headed South. She is
intimately familiar with Stecoah Gap having had more than one visit that
day. Gives me chills to think of that climb again. 

Godfather and Turtle arrived and stayed with us at the inn. Big hiker
dinner at Quincy's. Discussed plans to leave Damascus ... some day. 

Day 58  4/28/96  Sunday   no miles

General lazy day. Yoda left for trail today but ET and Turtle stayed.
Cheese Girls are not all together now. 

More hikers in to replace those back on the trail. We are leaving in the
morning for sure, staying any longer would be harmful to our hiking rhythm.

******* BLUE BLAZE  -  WATER FILTERS *****

The PUR-HIKER filter has been flawless. We have not suffered any illness.
It has never clogged. We use it regularly and probably do not have to
replace the filter cartridge as yet, but just to be safe, have done so in
Damascus. Only one time, after a very cold night, did it fail to pump.
Simply a small amount of water put into the pump for priming solved the
problem. The water is clear and enjoyable with no chemical taste or odor.

Some hikers, not wanting to take the time for filtering, elect to use
iodine tablets. We like the pure taste of filtered water. We think the PUR
Hiker has been a good choice. 

***************************************

Into Virginia...The 
Reports Continue.







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