AT RR 2020 Season

April 22, 2020
Hello folks:

After 16 Seasons, I am still ridgerunning and, as this updated photo depicts, standing at the Fontana Trailhead, but no longer accessible due to COVID19.  I have done 2 weeks patrols this season and have been sheltering in place off Trail in Fontana Village, tasking for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy; since the virus has dominated our lives.  I am appreciative of the ATC for its continued concern and commitment to all who tread the Trail while the ATC continues working hard to preserve and protect the AT for future generations to come.
    I often think as I work off trail, how difficult it was for this seasons thru hikers to leave the trail after committing so much time in preparing for "their hike of a lifetime".  I look back on my preparations for my own AT thru hike and cringe at the thought. I reared a family, and retired before I could realize that dream I had when I first realized what that White Blaze I was seeing on the trees was about.  I knew it was a trail marker as I day hiked north from Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains.  It was The Trail, It goes to Maine my buddy said and I was hooked right then. I had a dream; I did realize my dream and hope the same for you..
    A thankful old 1999 thru hiker/Ridgerunner, Carl, AKA Greybeard.
Keep hiking.
     

My Grandson

June 11, 2015
     Hiking has been a major part of my life in recent years, both due to Spring Ridgerunning Season for the past 12 years, as well as endeavoring to keep in shape during the 9 months between Seasons.
     I could provide a long list of rewards associated with working in the 'Park' (GSMNP), not the least of which is better health, enjoying one of the National Park System's "Crown" jewels and being a small part of it. It's awesome!
     I finished my 2015 Spring Season on the 25th of May then took my 9 year old grandson, Matthew, for a short loop in the Smokies a week later.
     We spent a night in the Cades Cove Campground and started our loop out of the Cove on Anthony Creek Trail the next morning headed for a night at Russell Field Shelter.  Determined not to overburden "Matthew", I kept his pack weight minimal only to follow him up to Russell Field like he was 'rolling down hill' with a tailwind.  On the way up, his vocal chords showed no lack for oxygen either.
     Matt's enthusiasm for the entire trip seemed the equivalent of my embarking on my thru-hikes, both the AT and PCT together.  He did not see 'Smoky Bear', only a doe wandering through the woods and Spence Field's resident Gobbler strutting around, but he headed home talking about doing the "whole" Smokies next time.
     Never have I enjoyed being called a "hiker" more than the day after returning home, while walking through Home Depot at a brisk pace with Matt right beside me, when 9-year-old Matthew looked up at me and said:  "People are watching us and they're saying they are hikers."
     I am so blessed!

Peering over AT Sign 

Shelter 

To Rocky Top

 
 Rhododendron

Spence Field

Water fall on Anthony Creek Trail

APPALACHIAN SPRING

The Beauty of Spring Wildflowers
     Posting some of the beautiful wildflowers that are now in full bloom on the AT.  There are many more throughout the Great Smoky Mountains but the photos here are some of the ones on my section between Fontana Dam Trailhead and Spence Field.


Yellow Trillium

Pink Lady Slippers

Phacelia and Violets

Painted Trillium

Fringed Phacelia

Dwarf Iris

Wild Geranium

Large Flower (White) Trillium

Enjoy & Keep Hiking,
Carl Goodman, ATRR
aka KY Greybeard
GA/ME '99
PCT 2008



PRINCESS OF THE WOODS

5/12/2015
     Flowers in the Smokies are varied and plentiful.  I am often asked about different flowers by hikers.  I look forward all the varieties but especially the LADY SLIPPERS which are poking out of the ground and some days from full bloom.
     I have found several locations for the Pink ones, with 50 or more in one particular area, 100 feet north of the "Throne" and about halfway to Shuckstack from Fontana Trailhead.
     The larger, showier YELLOW Slippers I have found are in only one place and never more than 2 blooms.  The YELLOW ones are about 1 week later than the Pink and should be in bloom with two weeks.

 

Ah!  May 10, 2015. 

It is 15" tall, and in all it's glory -

PRINCESS OF THE WOODS

Our one lone

 YELLOW Lady Slipper



 

"WARRANTIES"

5/11/2015
LEKI Trekking Poles
     Many years ago, I replaced my old "ski poles" with Leki Trekking Poles. My current pair of Titanium poles have been the length of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and thousands of miles on the Appalachian Trail (AT) while working as a Ridgerunner in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Recently, I noticed split sections made collapsing the poles difficult.
     I contacted Leki via the Leki website and, after receiving new middle and lower sections, I am pleased to be using my poles again just like they were brand new.
     I recall on my AT thru-hike in '99, a fellow hiker bent a pole in a stream and after reaching Leki Company by phone, he had a replacement pole at the next local Post Office.
      I appreciate excellent gear and companies who stand by their product warranties.
"MY NEW DIRTY GIRLS"
     With the weather warming up, I wanted to replace my 'heavy' gaiters with lighter weight ones.  So I decided to order a set of "DIRTY GIRLS".  Now, I purchased an Olive Green pair, but the colors and patterns are endless.
     I am even more pleased with them than I expected and after several trips, they are better than anything I have used.  The Velcro strip has adhered perfectly to my Merrill's, both pair.  I am not sure it was necessary, but I cut the Velcro one-half inch longer than the part sewed to the Gaiters and there is plenty left over for additional shoes.
     The quick response I got when I needed them was so helpful since I am on the trail daily.  No wonder so many thru-hikers are wearing DIRTY GIRL GAITERS.
Keep hiking,
Carl Goodman, aka KY Greybeard
GA/ME '99, PCT '08
ATC RR

    

The Dam Trail

4/29/2015
     Fontana Dam has been closed to vehicular traffic for the entire season, although it may yet be opened before the end of May.  It has never, in twelve seasons, been closed this long.  Many section, weekend and day hikers are disappointed as am I; and for me, it means walking that extra 3/4 mile 2 to 4 times every week.
     Oh well!  It just makes me arrive about thirty minutes later at my destination and does not affect the thru-hikers.  And Maintenance is actually what keeps the wheels turning.
     This is a photo of the Dam this past Sunday morning around 0700 when I walked across on my way to the trailhead.
Keep hiking,
Carl, ATC Ridgerunner
aka KY Greybeard
GAME '99
PCT 2008

    

LEAVE NO TRACE - "REALLY"

4/17/2015  I love to meet folk who show or talk about trash and litter they have picked up along the trail or at Shelters they have passed from Springer; people who must look ahead to a time when sons and daughters, or grandchildren will come to our wild lands to discover this 'treasure' we know, and love, as the Appalachian Trail. 
    Today, I met two young thru-hikers, Seth Orme, (Cap) and Joe Dehnert (Loose), at Spence Field, who have dedicated themselves to gathering what 'unthinking' others have left behind.  These two are weighing and logging poundage as they deposit their collection at points along the way.  They had carried a bag of tent poles weighing 6 lbs., (among other trash and litter), from south of Mollies to drop off at Clingman's.
    "Cap" and "Loose" represent the epitome of all LNT practitioners.  www.PackingItOut.blogspot.com.  By the way, I offered to carry out the tent poles to lighten their load since, I am sure, they would be adding to their cache between Mollies and the "Dome".
Keep hiking,
Carl, aka KY Greybeard
AT RR
GAME '99
PCT 2008

"SAR" - Search & Rescue

4/20/2015
     I took part in a SAR on 4/4 this year and, as is sometimes the case, an individual just needs rest or provisions and a little assistance, and is not actually injured or lost.  Such was the case on the 4th of April when 3 hikers over extended themselves. 
     On Monday, the 20th, I was reminded of a SAR several years ago when I ran in to Amy Allen.  She was heading North and I was heading South, finishing up another RR week in the Smokies.  I had met Amy at about this time 10 years ago, "or more", when she had twisted her ankle and was stuck at Russell Field Shelter.  Other hikers had contacted Park officials who contacted me requesting I evaluate and assist is possible.  Together, we determined Amy just could not safely hike down to Cades Cove carrying her pack.
     I left my pack at Russell, locked up in the Maintainer Box, took her pack, and walked her down to Cades.  She thanked me, I returned her pack, and I hiked back to Russell.
     On this encounter, Amy let me know that she was the individual I had helped hike out and that 8 days later she recovered, got back on the trail and eventually completed her thru-hike.  Then she informed me that she had written a book and said,"You're in it."
     I am looking forward to getting a copy of "Summoning the Mountains" by Amy Allen.  Also, I was not surprised to learn she and I have a mutual friend in legendary long distance hiker, Nimblewill "Nomad" whom I hiked with in 2008 on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).  I was honored, encouraged and hold memories, not so different from Amy's on THAT PCT thru-hike.
     I am blessed, and pleased to know I have, on occasion, literally helped someone have a better day!
Keep hiking,
Carl Goodman, aka KY Greybeard
GAME '99
PCT '2008

"Animal" Passed thru-hiking Again

4/15/2015
I missed 'Animal' this year.  He is one of my perennial favorites.  He carries all his food in a 5 gallon bucket which he has carried to Katahdin several times.  He is one tough individual.  This photo is his 2012 thru-hiker.
  Welcome back 'Animal'.  Sorry I missed you.
Keep hiking,
Carl, aka KY Greybeard
GAME 1999
PCT 2008

A FAMILY GREETING

3/16/2015
  I met a young man of Korean decent, Eric, I think was his name.  We talked as we hiked down the trail.  I found myself remembering and relating experiences I had with several young Korean men whom I got to know through a Korean Airman I met while stationed at Kunsan Air Force Base - 1964.  I had so many good times there.
  I related to Eric a family welcome at a Korean home like no other.  I received a "greeting" (verbally and with a bow) from every member of the family in traditional dress; about 15 family members in all. 
  The encounter began with the smallest little girl through the grandmama-san, repeated with the males, ending with the grandpapa-san in splendid white attire complete with very high, white stovepipe hat and snow white Fu manchu beard.
  The experience was a wonderful, once in a lifetime experience I will never forget.
Keep hiking,
Carl, aka KY Greybeard
GAME 1999
PCT 2008

FRIENDS OF THE SMOKIES

I was pleased to meet a group of 5 day hikers at Russell Field, and not just any day hikers but members of the "FRIENDS OF THE SMOKIES" and members of "MARGARET STEVENS 900 MILERS".  I hope I got that correct.
They, in part are helping in many ways to preserve the Smokies for generations to come in as natural way as possible.  I 'SALUTE' you!
Keep hiking,
Carl Goodman, aka KY Greybeard
GA/ME 1999
PCT 2008

I THANK "YOU"

Occasionally I receive cards from thru-hikers who passed in the Spring, trekking through the Smokies, Katahdin bound.  I was particularly pleased to receive a card from Chris Minnich and Jamie Ratchford because during training for our 2015 spring patrols, we are told, as Ridgerunners, we are Ambassadors, representing the ATC and the Park Service.
Hearing from thru-hikers is always a pleasure, but to know you have in any way made their hike better, is very rewarding.
"Studmuffin", "Glorious Laughter", I THANK YOU!

Rough 2015 Beginning

The 2015 hiker season has begun but not without a couple hiccups.  Brought a upper respiratory infection from Louisville and spent the first week not at 100%.  Ended up seeing a doctor in Robinsville, NC, leaving with 10 days of an antibiotic.  Nevertheless - we are on the mend and out on trail patrol again.
Beautiful snow with a lot of ice trees down across the trail.  Will post pictures soon.  Spring is right around the bend -
Keep hiking,
Carl, aka Greybeard

FOOTWARE

     I have tried many varieties of footwear over 55 years of hiking.  Growing up with “clod hoppers”, the shoe of choice, someone else’s, (when I had shoes); I still have the scar on my right instep from a hot coal cinder.  I had been emptying cinders from the stove that morning.  I could not remove from those boots due to the knots in the laces.  I think I learned from those boots to tie a bow after that.  That was a long time ago in the hills of Carrolton, Kentucky, when one room school houses were common as was the old pot bellied stove,  the end of the Mighty chestnut was near, and shoes in those hills were a luxury.

     I see a wide variety of footwear during the course of a season and talk with most of the thru-hikers, section and overnighters passing through the Park.  I was given a pair of Merrells by the ATC my first year as a Ridgerunner and have worn Merrell Ventilators for the past 7 seasons including my 2008 thru-hike on the Pacific Crest National Trail (PCT).  They withstood regular 25 mile days and more importantly provided comfort throughout the life of the shoe.  I have always worn low quarters, not needing the ankle support 3/4'ers provide, but preferring a solid, sturdy shoe. 

     I am guilty of wearing the tread off the bottom before replacing and when tossed, my Merrells are still solid and intact, if treadless.  Most other trail shoes I have worn did not hold up as long as the tread. I did however realize the folly of treadless footwear when on a snowfield in the California Sierra Mountains where that oversight left me determined to pay attention to the bottom of my footwear in the future.   Leave it to those conditions to bring reality to the importance of tread, traction and purchase.

     I have always found good footing in challenging trail conditions and appreciate the quality and durability of Merrells.  It is no wonder I follow or pass and recognize more Merrell than any tread on the trail.

     Choosing the right shoe for its intended purpose is important.  There must be the right balance of weight versus comfort and durability, waterproofing or breathability.  On the PCT, breathable and fast drying shoes are recommended and a good outfitter suggested Merrell Ventilators when I was preparing for the PCT.  They helped cool my feet under hot conditions like our Southwest and dried so quickly after snow melt streams in the high Sierras.  I often do light running as well as hiking to remain conditioned during the off season and the very light and breathable running shoes from Merrills I have are great.

     Begin with the right footwear and your feet will take you to trails end.

Keep hiking,

Carl, aka Greybeard

GA/ME 1999

PCT 2008

Flying Squirrels

Flying Squirrels

I met a young couple today as I was cutting logs for future water bars and steps to be installed later in the season. They had just photographed a flying squirrel in flight, which is gliding from one tree to another. A sighting I have not had in 12 seasons as Ridgerunner in the Smokies.  I had never seen these nocturnal animals, but one other time in my lifetime of 73 years and enjoyed the photo. At night I have seen their little red eyes glowing high up in trees back home in Kentucky.

   Only one time had I spotted several up in a dead tree while hiking our woods above our house in Fairdale, Kentucky 15 years ago.   My wife and I were enjoying a pleasant summer afternoon, taking in the wildlife on beautiful sunny day.

A friend used to say if you retain just one little golden nugget from his Sunday school class then all his studying and preparation was worth it. I feel that way as I hike along daily in the Smokies, or anywhere, as a Ridgerunner or just hiking on a quiet nature path.  A chance sighting of a big owl sleeping in a tree, a coyote trotting through the woods, a bear on its back sleeping, or a big
Pileated woodpecker making that hollow sound while searching for bugs in a dead tree or a huge raven gliding into a tree near you; these are some of those golden nuggets like that little flying squirrel so seldom seen.

   If you notice looking for the picture of a squirrel, there is none. I am sorry to say that I inadvertently erased the email sent to me for this blog and I do hope the young couple who graciously sent it to me will do so a second time and I will try again.
Keep Hiking,
Carl, aka Greybeard

4/14/14   ENCOUNTERS

   I often meet interesting people as I hike the Smokies. Part of my job as a Ridgerunner is talking with those I meet to learn of problems or concerns and help them with park policies and mostly for conservation of the resources, just a term for keeping the park as pristine and natural as possible for now and the future. I am blessed to have the opportunity to share with those I encounter a unique and beautiful place. I counted 44 northbound thru hikers as I hiked south to the Fontana trailhead, finishing another week of the 2014 season, my 12^th.  I spent a sunny and warm week, ending on a cool morning, spitting rain, the beginning of a wet and cold period predicted.

   I met a family of four thru hikers entering the park for that section of the AT often anticipated by those who would challenge its 70 miles Often with concern for its challenges of difficult terrain and weather, while looking forward to the wildlife in the park, so diverse and beautiful.  Of note for this family was their two children, ages 7 and 9 with their smiling faces and the little fitted packs on their backs coming up to their father, who was graciously listening to my normal spiel. They gave all appearances of simply taking a walk in the woods, not on a 2180 thru hike of America’s most notable National scenic trail.

   Some might look hard on parents dragging such young ones on such an arduous journey but I saw two young people blessed with parents who were joining them on a journey that for most of us is a dream seldom realized but cherished by the few who do it. My own dream began at age 25 on my first trip in the Smokies and first sight of that white blaze my hiking buddy told me, “this goes all the way to Maine”.  My dream stayed with me until I retired and hiked the trail in 1999. I have heard countless stories and I can only imaging the memories these children will have and the education they will get. I went to a summer camp as a boy once and that week experience remains one of the most memorable and genuine learning experiences for me.

   I have since learned that the parents' home school their children and I believe this year will be a very good school year  A chance encounter is an educational experience, but thru hike is an encounter with life that is hard to beat.

   

SAWYER CERTIFICATION

For me the Course was a certification refresher.  I took the course in 2005 and have used many of the principal safety considerations for the past 6 years.  Most of our work is done with one main, large and/or small, pruning saws which we carry regularly into the back country.  Not having injured myself or left a saw stuck in a tree trunk is, in no small part, due to applying course information and practice.
Keep hiking,
Carl, aka Greybeard (GA/ME '99; PCT '08)

RIDGERUNNER SEASON 2014 HAS BEGUN

Ridgerunner Season has begun.  Last week we re-certified in WFA (Wilderness First Aid) with lectures on a variety of injuries and the ABCs of assessing situation and courses of action.  We later took part in a variety of scenarios applying principles for response in the back country.
The information and knowledge from the Course put on by NOLS Wilderness Medicine Institute instructor, Phil, was made more real through his real life experiences.
Keep hiking,
Carl, aka Greybeard (GAME 1999; PCT 2008)

PACK IT IN PACK IT OUT

Pack It in Pack it Out

We all need an attitude adjustment occasionally.  Leave No Trace (LNT) is not just an organization dedicated to keeping all outdoors pristine; it is more than anything an “attitude”.  It is a concern for the individual coming after finding no evidence of our having been there.

As an AT Ridgerunner in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park for the past eleven seasons, I have encouraged all to practice LNT and cleaned up after those who have been less inclined to do so.

I have packed out hundreds of lbs of trash per season, from sleeping bags and tents, to food wrappers and everything in between.  I have found no better way to contain quantities of accumulated wrappers and food containers than ordinary plastic bottles.  Please note the collection of some of the beverage bottles I filled to bring out, clean, odorless and sealed.

The preferred bottle is an empty Gatorade which has a large enough lid and spout to put smashed cans in along with foil, plastic and paper wrappers, etc.  A 33oz Gatorade bottle can hold a week’s worth of trash from several people.

The photos I have uploaded represent weekly trash accumulations and representative trash packed in a bottle, in this case a 16oz water bottle cut open to show its’ contents on the ground, in a plastic grocery bag and in the bottle, right hand upper corner prone on a rock of the final picture.
Do you have an attitude?
Keep hiking and pack it in pack it out!

 

 

Wisconsin Group / Model LNT’ers

I met this group .5 miles north of Doe Knob, well organized, well led and had a plan. These high schoolers were from Madison East High School in Madison, Wisconsin, a group that has brought students to the Smokies for an outdoor Experience for the past 40 years.  Anyone can see the enthusiasm and the "I am glad to be here” look.  Their leader Ms. Erin Parker provided much of that enthusiasm but quickly let me know she has not been the leader for all those years.

A great experience and a fun trip is often the result of a well thought-out plan.  They were perfect LEAVE-NO-TRACE representatives.

Keep hiking,
Carl