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Pinhoti Trail
Blue Mountain Shelter Log Book
2007 - 2010

Cover of Blue Mountain Shelter 2007 - 2009 Log Book External Text:
Pinhoti Section 6 ? Blue Mountain Shelter ? 20 January 2007 - May 2009

Introductory Internal Paragraphs
Pinhoti Trail
20 January 2007

I borrowed this log book from John Calhoun. This 9½" x 6¼" wirebound book has color front and unbleached back cardboard covers. The front cover and some pages are loose; the back cover is partly loose. There is water damage and animals have chewed some pages.

13 January 2007 1 Hiker Hunter - 5 Days Pinhoti Trail
7pm. Saturday. In for the night. Doing 5 days on the Pinhoti. Can't believe the temp today was in the 70s. Can't believe only 2 of us here tonight. But back in Ohio --- It's probably snowing. NOBO in the morning.
Hunter email AT97&02, OT01, LBL03, PCT-sec98, CI, SHT, FHT, C&O, GRT2004, LHT05
~ January 2007 1 Hiker Sean - Day Pinhoti Trail
Rodent eaten. Missing words indicated by ~~~
~~~ le to soon, I arrived late ~~~ fter dark. I was ~~~ ona HMTC in ~~~ but I have ~~~ ry Solo, hope ~~~
19 January 2007 2 Hikers F: Monte D, Jim D - Day Pinhoti Trail
Friday. My father and I hiked in two miles to stay here at Blue Mountain Shelter. It's a nice shelter you got here. The temperature will go below freezing here tonight. We are up here trying out our gear to go on and hike the AT in 7½ weeks. So far, so good.
20 January 2007 5 Hikers Levi, Corey, Dalton, ~, Sherri - Day Pinhoti Trail
Rodent eaten. Missing words indicated by ~~~
Saturday. 4:20pm. ~~~ our 2 mile hike earlier ~~~ ith several stops, time ~~~ The sun began to set ~~~ ther side of the mountain ~~~ er since darkness ~~~ n us, strange things ~~~ ing E have heard stra ~~~ isturbing noises actually. ~~~ unts of men screamin ~~~ arying, but we were the onlu o ~~~ untain. We reached the Blue ~~~ and heard footsteps in the sh ~~~ e ~ as to be found. Three d ~~~ found. as we sc ~~~ were found opened ~~~ . Were leaving ~~~ to death.
24 February 2007 1 Maintainer Fashionplate Dan - Day Pinhoti Trail
Fashionplate Dan surveying for the trail crew that's coming in a few weeks. CR24 to here has a dozen blowdowns but is otherwise clear. Water at least every mile. Testerday was clear, today cloudy & windy. I should get to Adams gap today, before tomorrow's storms come.
3 March 2007 3 Hikers Jeff, Mike, & MaKenzie Austin, Tuscaloosa, Carrolton Day Pinhoti Trail
Overnight stay. Nice. Giddyup.
17 March 2007 3 Hikers Kevin J, Tim, Wyne - 3 Days Pinhoti Trail
It's been good, nice & sunny, but a really cold wild. Tonight stay here at Blue Mont. Then hike outy.
They say come and stay but Cat Woles sack.
Enjoy your stay.
31 March 2007 1 Hiker John Calhoun - Day Pinhoti Trail
With AHTS convention.
31 March 2007 1 Hiker Joe Cuhaj - Day Pinhoti Trail
Great work on the shelter Dan & Marion!
- April 2007 1 Hiker - - Day Pinhoti Trail
Captain Kirk roared to Sulu: "Fire the photon torpedos! The Klingons are coming too close!" [and that night was cold and dark. The wood walkers mean not to harm you but sometimes they are mad at intruders. They don't like you.]
6 April 2007 1 Hiker Avalanche☺ - Day Pinhoti Trail
Shout out to Adventure Camp 101 hikers. Enjoy your day. Much love.
6 April 2007 1 Hiker New, Andrew - Day Pinhoti Trail
Here on our north to south day hikes. Beautiful Easter Weekend makes one mindful of blessings.
7 April 2007 1 Hiker Varon H - Day Pinhoti Trail
9 April 2007 2 Hikers Trickster, what?! Gaia dog - Many Pinhoti Trail
(Thanks "Solo" for the Guide Book. You are great.)
Here for a break. We started at Bull Gap hiking the Pinhoti end to end in 8 days to Georgia. Finishing the last 100 miles of Georgia next month, 137 this time. ☺
GA → ME in 06 In 07
20 April 2007 1 Hiker Sue / Hammock Hanger - Many Great Eastern Trail
Rodent eaten. Missing words indicated by ~~~
Al-NY Great Eastern Trail
Hard to believe no one has signed in here at the shelter in 3 months. This is my first shelter since starting my grand adventure to blaze a new trail for the American Hiking Society that will lead from the Fl/Al state line, where the Florida Trail ends, and move northwards towards Lake Champlain in upstate New York. I will be ~ ling the "Western" side of the Appalachians ~ AL-GA-TN-KY-VA-WV-MD-PA-NY. The trail will be @ 1800 miles in length. The Alabama Trail roadwalk was interesting. The Pinhoti so far has been beautiful & quiet. I have encountered no other hikers. Stayed at Cheaha State Park yesterday, nice place. ✩✩✩✩ for the shelter, very nice. Glad to see the picnic table is secure and won't walk off... LOL ☺
"Life is too short not to have a little fun!"
Alabama - New York GET0~ www.trailjournals.com/hammockhangerGET06/ www.americanhiking.org www.hikealabama.org PS Solo Thanks for such nice data book. Sue
22 April 2007 1 Hiker Troop 50: DJ - Day Pinhoti Trail
Me SPL of the troop say hay to you and the friendly mountain people. Dancing with and partying with the animals. That and just taking a break and lunch.
24 April 2007 1 Hiker Graybeard - Many Pinhoti Trail
In for a map, then to the park for resupply. The end of the Pinhoti is near and it's been a good trip. A little rain, blisters, and heat here and there. I saw a turkey yesterday. Beautiful shelter.
28 April 2007 2 Hikers Bobby & Chris W - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
Spent the night here. We are hiking 15 miles this weekend. The weather is beautiful. The mice kept us up last night, but we managed to get some sleep. We have a good day of hiking ahaed of us.
- May 2007 1 Hiker Forrest - Many Pinhoti Trail
See Y'all at Trail Dayz in Damascus, VA, or bust!
Just got in! Hiked from I20 today. A few miles of I+ say so. This trail is great. The maintainers do a good job and this shelter is very nice also. It's good to see a picnic table. It was good to sit down at a table for dinner. I really did not expect to come through this trail so quick. And it looks like the end is coming just as quickly. I have to see how many miles 'til the end tomorrow so I can call my awesome girlfriend Jessie (I wish she was here, and my dog Moxie also.) and tell her when to meet me. If it's 40 miles I might try to do that in a day. It sounds a little crazy, but I get tranced out. Although I still pay attention to my surroundings. Shout ou to Trickster & what?!? We hiked in Maine last year. GA → ME 06, GA - Al 07, F🌲rrest
22 May 2007 1 Hiker Granny fer Fla, Katie - Day Pinhoti Trail
Katie & I hiked in today and were glad to see this shelter. We weren't happy about the weird (not nature-y) noise. My pack frame snapped into 2 pieces. Weird for metal, huh? Katie's Platypus somehow, all by itself, fell out of the loft and split down one seam. Today we'll go to Cheaha and try to get my pack welded so we can go on to Georgia. What were those puffing noises last night? Great shelter, way better than the AT.
28 May 2007 1 Hiker Jonathan O - Day Pinhoti Trail
First stop of my week wandering around in the woods. Was not expecting such a nice, secluded shelter. Props to whoever maintains this. Would have been nice to have a fire... But since it's been so dry there's been a ban. I made do with my camp stove and had some pretty decent meals. If any Auburn people see my note, give me an email. None of my friends were hard core enough to go with me on my extended outing. Best wishes. email
27 May 2007 2 Hikers Chris & Todd D - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
1st shelter stop in our hiking careers! Caught the bug sometime yesterday on the bike trail and have planned our future hikes today on the 2 mile trek to this place. Quiet, except for motorcycles in the distance. (Much more quiet yesterday on the bike trail.) A few great views remind me of how beautiful Alabama is. We are hungry for more fun from here to Vermont and other places that our city lives will allow. Could mark the end of the gym in my life. Wouldn't miss it. Perfect weather, if you ask me, though cooler perhaps would provide more energy. Just not complaining since discovering this excellent form of escape and personal challenge. A very wonderful excuse for these two brothers to continue meeting. The trail is both exercise and therapy. Not at all ready for Atlanta. He not for Birmingham. I'll leave more thoughts in other shelters I'm sure. Peace Out, Holla back!
2 June 2007 3 Hikers Juli, Anjie, Jeff - 7 Days Pinhoti Trail
Our last shelter on our 7 day hike. Started at Piedmont 26 May. No rain. Great weather. Little water in many places. Love this trail. This shelter is so very wonderful. Thanks to those who maintain this area.
28 July 2007 2 Hikers Daniel & Gavin - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
Just hiked in 2 miles & stayed the night at Blue Mountain Shelter. Great Shelter, very nice to have. Creeks ~200 feet south on Pinhoti is dry now, so no water..
3 August 2007 2 Hikers R, J - Day Pinhoti Trail
Enjoyed the hike here. Beautiful weather. Temperature about 96 but felt much more comfortable with occasional breezes. The shelter is really nice. Brought snacks & enjoyed them as we rested. Took some great pictures here and along the trail. Began at Cave trailhead, intended to return the same way but after looking at the map decided to go toawrd Bald Rock. Have a great visit!
14 August 2007 1 Hiker Ace (And yes that's my name) - 6 Days Pinhoti Trail
I've been on the Pinhoti for some time. 6 days I believe, yeah 6. had to count up for a second. First shelter I got to stop at that was around dark. Although I can complain about the yellow jackets on this trail. Lots of 'em. The heat's been up here. Last resupply said it was over 100 so that's great, but oh well. There's no one else on this trail. Prolly stay the night here. Hike out tomorrow. Any locals ever wanna go just give me a call. I live in Hollis. Any former Marines around just give me a call. OORAHH Props to whoever maintains this shelter. NICE!!!
25 August 2007 1 Hiker Daniel - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
Hiked in yesterday afternoon; weather was nice, overcast & windy. Had to hike this side because of the fire in the wilderness. I'm glad we had to change plans, this is a very nice section. Shelter is awesome. Talked about getting in touch with Solo and seeing if we could get a window installed in the loft. (If we could get permission we would be happy to undertake the project.) Noticed a lot of tales of noises and candles. Last night we encountered none of this so either people are just being dumb or the sprits are gone. haha. Morons. War Eagle
25 August 2007 1 Hiker Brandon, Wayne - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hiked today @am & arrived at the shelter @ 9am. Very nice shelter & lovely trail.
- August 2007 ? Hikers F: Savanannas - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hi. My name is Savannas. Today I turn nine years old. We hiked here for birthday. I found a snail and name him Gary. My brother found a snail too. I found some great rocks. I enjoyed my birthday! bye!
13 October 2007 ? Hikers Family Roanoke, Al Overnight Pinhoti Trail
We hiked in from the trailhead. As always, we love the Blue Mountain Shelter. We are only staying for one night and hiking out tomorrow
5 November 2007 1 Hiker Bill / Bama AT '06 - Day Pinhoti Trail
Bill 1:30pm. Beautiful weather, great day to do a piece of the ol' Pinhoti. Wish there was enough water to do an Alabama End to End. Thanks, Solo!
6 November 2007 1 Maintainer Phil Coldwater, MT Day Pinhoti Trail
1:55pm. Taking break from trail work with AHTS. Great weather. Going back up to Bald Rock to campground.
8 November 2007 1 Hiker Jim W - Day Pinhoti Trail
I have enjoyed the 2 mile hike to Blue Mountain Shelter. The weather is cool and crisp with the recent cold front that moved through (Lows in the 30s & highs in the 60s). The leaves turning are beautiful. I'm impressed at how nice the shelter is. After a quick lunch I plan to continue hiking.
9 November 2007 1 Hiker Preston / Keystone - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hiked in from Cheaha Trailhead. Nice hike. Weather perfect. Leaves beautiful. Lov ethe shelter. This is the only shelter I missed on my thru hike last December. Glad I made a trip to see it. Spending the night and heading to McDill Point tomorrow. Saw a 25 pound barbell weight on trail south of here???
10 November 2007 10 Hikers Whitney P, Eric M, Terry M, Justin M, Evan L, Genae L, Brent S, Emory G, Patrick O, Randy W - Day Pinhoti Trail
[Came back 1:00 13 October 2008]
(11:35) We've been hiking now for a little over an hour this morning. Ther are beautiful blue skies today. A little windy and wonderful. The leaves are starting to change. Beautiful colors, which has made for beautiful sights to see along the hike. God amazes me by his creativity and beauty. We also saw a 25 pound weight and carried it to the loft. We are hiking 9 more miles tonight and roughly 7 miles tomorrow. This has been an enjoyable trip thus far and I can't wait to set up camp and huddle around a roaring fire! God is good!
31 December 2007 1 Hiker Vic H, Matt H, Kieth H, Haley I, Jackson (American bulldog) Montgomery , Prattville 3 Days Pinhoti Trail
31 December 2007 to 1 January 2008
Hiked in by night on Pinhoti, camped in the woods. Camped 2nd night in shelter. Had a great time. 35° at night and windy.
13 March 2008 2 Hikers Nikki, Saul Tallahassee, Fl 3 Day Pinhoti Trail
Very nice hike. Came from Tallahassee, Florida. We did a 3 day, 2 night trip around here. The weather's been great. Unfortunatly, some of the trails were closed for burning.
17 March 2008 3 Maintainers Marion C, Chris A, John Calhoun Leeds, Al Day Pinhoti Trail
In for maintenance with AHTS and Rick Gushe. Doing Trail work. Trail is clean and clear.
17 March 2008 1 Hiker W & D Rigsby - 3 Days Pinhoti Trail
17:00 Hours. Just arrived. This is our second night on the Pinhoti. Yesterday we were on the south side of Cheaha where they were setting up for the dedication ceremony for the adding of the Pinhoti to the AT.
19 March 2008 ? Hikers Commander Kyle & Blue Door Royal Rangers Outpost # 8 www.albamaroyalrangers.com - 9 Days Pinhoti Trail
07:30. Had an awesome night at the shelter. It was our 5th night on the Pinhoti. This has to be the best shelter on the trail. Now we're heading into Cheaha for the breakfast buffet (excitement). After that, we've got 3 more nights and will be at Bull Gap. May God Bless everyone's journey as he has ours.
19 March 2008 2 Hikers Randoph M, Tucker M ΣN BO Auburn University Day Pinhoti Trail
Tucker: Storm preventing trip to Cleburne Trailhead. Wind and rain are nasty. Minor skirmish with several turkeys. Lost some blood and a kneecap, but gained some valuable meat and scars.
Randoph: Busted tent, 34°F, & thunderstorms tonight. So we had to get here fast. Truth, happiness is only real if experienced with others.
19 March 2008 1 Hiker MoBill Woodstck, Ga Day Pinhoti Trail
Started 10 March 2008 at Bull's Gap and arrived at Cheaha for AHTS Conference 14 March 2008. Wife came up for weekend and brought all the bad weather. Since tornados were about, I went home to check for damages.
Back today with intentions to finish to Cave Springs, Georgia. Just another 100 miles! Thanks to the AHTS gang for great shelter. Heard all the strange noises too, but it's better than a tent in the wind tonight. Actually, I was hoping Mrs. Bigfoot would vist; I'm alone here. Thanks to Solo fo the Maps & Guide.
22 March 2008 1 Hiker - - Day Pinhoti Trail
Oh yeah, big & sexy productions. Reppin the south.
q: What kind of backpack does a pirate carry?
a: An Osprey arrr-gon
q: Where does a pirate go for food?
a: Yarrr-by's
PUSHIN' PEAKS, SLANGIN' MILES
Not Yet GA→ME 07
Dirty south Nepalese Sherpa #4⁄17
KEEPIN' IT WET IN THE OCHO, SON!
24 March 2008 1 Hiker gubbool - Day Pinhoti Trail
[Update 12/12 on flip side!]
Past Easter Sunday. Expecte overnight low: 30 °. Sheltered from 10 MPH wind. Hiking from Bull Gap @ 46 miles south. Hiking north until money runs out. Saw no Indians for over 2 days. 4,000 KIAs in Iraq and only a handful of Americans. Can tell you the true reason that we are at war but then most people can't tell you how many people live in their home state. Ignorance abounds. This will be my longest hike in distance, but I spent most of 1970 camping in southeast Asia. Thanks to the Fur Camp and Hunting Club called the USMC. Over there, I would have killed for a box of Pop-Tarts. I killed for less.

Remember, 'tis better to wear out your body than to let it rust away.
28 March 2008 3 Hikers Skillet, Tremper, Broom - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
We're doing a rediculously long day hike. 18 miles. I'm going home tonight. Broom & Tremper will continue forth. A very beautiful shelter & a very good hike. Best wishes of luck to future travellers.
30 March 2008 2 Hikers Lee & Amanda - Day Pinhoti Trail
Cool & foggy all day. Great diversity in terrain over a short distance. Will be back.
6 April 2008 2 Hikers Suzanne & Maralla - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hiked up for the day. Cool and cloudy. Bugs everywhere. Boy are we out of shape! We hope next spring to be able to hike some of the AT through Virginia. Last time I was here it was August & got attacked by yellow jackets. The year GNATS! Uhrg.
8 April 2008 1 Hiker Pepé GA>ME 06 - Day Pinhoti Trail
Section hiking Alabama Pinhoti Trail. Very nice. Solo today to Route 24.
8 April 2008 1 Hiker Grant / Johnnie Reb, JD dog Tallassee, Al Day Pinhoti Trail
Just arrived at Blue Mountain Shelter. Much props. Stayed at McDill Point last night. 30-40 MPH wind gusts and very misty this morning. Beautiful but very interesting night. Hiked from McDill around 9:30. Just arrived. Hungry. Gonna fix me a nice lunch. Ramen & mashed taters. mmm. Going to continue on 'til dark but plan on staying tomorrow night here and hike out the following day. Leaving for the AT 15 April 2008. Just gettin' ready and tryin' to teach my new wermeriener how to walk, not run, everywhere. ALABAMA WILL Always BE MY HOME. THE MOST Beautiful place in the world 2 me. Much love. ☒ PEACE. ☮ 1st cov Div. Hooah.
18 April 2008 3 Hikers Tony / Wrong Way, Lisa, Caiti age 9 Dallas, Ga Day Pinhoti Trail
Got here about 1:30pm. Have walked these trails many times and never seen the same thing twice. Hiked all over NC, Tn, Ga, and Alabama... This place is one I'll never forget. We live in Dallas, Ga right now, outside of Atlanta. Moved there from Charlotte, NC. Big Mistake! We came for a day hike, to escape hell. Us girls allowed Tony to lead... Not a good idea. He was heading "south" by his map directions. He did not tell me for two hours and I knew something was so wrong. It was obvious we were heading north. So, the females shall now lead. In case we have a mutiny and he decides to lead, look for the trail of Teddy Grahams, or send us soldiers, guns, and money.....
(NOT Lawyers) PLEASE!
- April 2008 2 Hikers Melanie - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hello. I am ready to head back. My name is Melanie and I am here with a dear friend of mine who I haven't known for a short time. We have both been through so much these past few years. My mother dying, my brother in Iraq. She has lost several friends and her mother. I just want to know if you read this I hope I can write something to make someone think! I am a personal trainer and every day I inspire people everyday. I take control of their health! Don't forget that life s short. Live it WELL. God Bless, Love Hard, do for others... email
22 April 2008 1 Hiker PAPARAZZI - Day Pinhoti Trail
23 April 2008 1 Hiker Brian / T-Back - Many Eastern Continental Trail
Back on the trail after a rockslide injury near Adams Gap. I took a month off to heal. Started yesterday at AG and spent the night at the state park (nice place.) Just passing through. I hope to make it past SR24 today and into Heflin tomorrow for resupply, then on my way to Springer Mountain and the AT. Happy Hiking. Walk by faith...
24 April 2008 1 Hiker Luvs2Live - Day Pinhoti Trail
Schedule for work changed so I thought I would enjoy God's creation for a few hours.
3 May 2008 ? Hikers - - Day Pinhoti Trail
We've hiked 2 hours this morning. We are planning 18 more miles. Sounds like a few crazy people have stayed at this shelter. Nothing touched our packs, and we haven't heard any strange noises. But we haven't been smoking crack.
17 May 2008 3 Hikers Rachael, W, Wayne Gadsden, Al Overnight Pinhoti Trail
We spent last night here for our 4 year anniversary. The hike was beautiful with all the flowers & waterfalls. We learned that 2 shouldn't sleep in a one man sleeping bag. But it was all good 'cause we got massages this morning. We had 1 visitor - Wayne - from Gadsden stay with us & lend his stove so our ramen noodles didn't take 4 hours apiece. We had a great time and will be back soon!♡
18 May 2008 2 Hikers Joshua, CWY - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
My blood brother & I came to the high place and stayed here one night. I am testing new equipment for a northern AT trip next month with my wife. All was good. - Joshua
Blessed are all who walk here.
Remember who have been here, will be
here, and those who are here.
I walked this trail in reverence
of my family blood that has
been here for a thousand years.
23 May 2008 3 Hikers Justin, Trevor, Jonathan. - Day Pinhoti Trail
Spent the night out of the rain. Woke to a beautiful morning & smell of poofs.
31 May 2008 1 Hiker John / Nerdy John - Day Pinhoti Trail
Day hike here from Cheaha Trailhead. Perfect weather & a nice nap!
1 June 2008 1 Hiker Todd G New Orleans, La Day Pinhoti Trail
Last day at Cheaha. ist day of Hurricane season. Can you guess I'm from New Awluns? Well, heard the Pinhoti will hook up with the AT. I'm happy as a lark. Well, "Turbo" from NO says "Keep on truckin' baby!"
6 June 2008 4 Hikers Kodak Eagle, Lucky Joy, Brown Bear, Little Moses - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hiked in with Little Moses & Brown Bear. It was their very 1st hike. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery and the quiet & peaceful hike. It was a beautiful day. Thank you God for all the beauty we have seen today & for a safe trip. You are so good to us. We are headed back down to take a swim in the lake. Have a blessed day.
Isaiah 40:31 - But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.
Phillipians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.
7 June 2008 2 Hikers Jodie & Charles H Alexander City, Al Day Pinhoti Trail
It's hotter than Moose Pussy out here today. Felt obligated to leave some TP, but no Jim Beam left! Sorry. I think someone stole the AC. Oh well. Happy hiking!
PS Try not to look them in the eyes. Less likely to be eaten!
13 June 2008 1 Hiker HOBE YCC: The Sundance Kid GA-ME07, JP, Timmy H, Jeb K, Shelley S - Day Pinhoti Trail
Warming up today, but the trail is in great shape. The YCC kids are "enjoying" their intro to hiking. Great Park, Great day. Cya up the trail.
2 July 2008 6 Hiker The Canadian Family of Six: Cameo, Kyle, Crystal, Caitlin, Duane, Janet - Day Pinhoti Trail
Shelter We finally made it! Here we are, the shelter that we thought never existed. :~ The sign reads 2 miles, we did 4. Just hope we make it back. "Ugh!"
4 July 2008 1 Hiker Jacob E - Day Pinhoti Trail
I'm at Blue Mt Shelter. It was really disturbing that I found a dead dog up in theupper part of the shelter. I am tired!!!
- July 2008 1 Hiker Jeff B - Day Pinhoti Trail
I just reached Blue Mt Shelter and I'm kind of tired now. I had to use the bathroom about a ½ mile back, so I went up the stairs and pooped in the left back corner. Now I'm eating some Pringles. OK. I just heard screaming noises echoing from the woods. I'm guessing animals but I don't think so. Well, I'm kind of creeped out now, so whoever reads this beware of the cult that's further down the trail.
4 July 2008 1 Hiker Mary B - Day Pinhoti Trail
We must turn around now. Our water supply is getting low. I hope we make it... That is... if the cult doesn't get us first.
4 July 2008 1 Hiker Edwin M / ednotmilkman - Day Pinhoti Trail
Sorry to hear that neither of Jacob, Jeff, or Mary stayed for the night. I arrived about 5:30 from the north. Camped last night in tent at Horseblock Flats. So it must have been an 11 mile day. Got started yesterday after my parents shuttled me up to the I20 Bridge so I can hike back to my car @ Cheaha Trailhead.
Nice shelter, but I get too hot in the loft! Hot weather hiking sleeping requires lots of bug spray. I've been using Deepwoods Cutter. And requires very few clothes. I started yesterday with a sleeveless, dry wicking shirt; took it off after 5 minutes, and haven't put it back on yet. This is along my first attempt hiking without underwear. Nothing to wash or stink except socks. Also thanks to some redneck Tony Stewart fan by CR24. He left me his bandana and I've been swabbing my sweaty brow. Today I was hoping to meet some of the hikers but the only one I saw were the afternoon hikers up on the boardwalk at Bald Rock. I went up there without my backpack after checking in here at the shelter.
I did see 4 turkeys today. First one I ever got some photos of. She must have been with some chicks because she did not fly away, but ran in a circle around when I flushed her out. She was not more than 8 feet from me when she jumped up!
Another wildlife I saw that did not run was tortoises. Can't spell that word. You know - TURTLES. Saw 4 of them at different times today. None were more than 2# big I'd guess. Worst thing was the 3 ticks I picked off my legs. 2 came off easy - one was stuck good. I've been sitting here totally "necked" in the dark after eating supper. There is a frog? on the 2 foot wide side board. Wish I could sleep there but I know I'd roll off. 10pm. Time for bed now. I think the "haunts" are around only when it gets colder.
1 August 2008 3 Hikers Rolling Rock, Dozing Dee, Bobo - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hiking thru on Rolling Rock's 40th birthday. Nice campsite, but we could use some air conditioning... Happy Birthday to me.
2 August 2008 2 Hikers Sheila & Rex - Day Pinhoti Trail
Rex & Sheila Hiked from the Cheaha SP Rangers Station down the Pinhoti Trail north to here (Blue Mountain Shelter.) Temperature too hot for this, but a great workout. The shelter was a great rest stop. Thanks Alabama Trail Club! We appreciate it!
9 August 2008 1 Hiker Tony S - Day Pinhoti Trail
Nice shelter.
17 August 2008 1 Hiker - Day Pinhoti Trail
First time visiting shelter on dayhike. Nice!!
9 September 2008 2 Hikers Sleeping Bear AT '07, Catherine - Day Pinhoti Trail
Short day hike from Cheaha. Lovely day. Cool & sunny, but humid. Great shelter & clean too.
- September 2008 2 Hikers Kevin & Alex - Day Pinhoti Trail
Just travelling throughand enjoying the low lighting. It's getting dark and we got to go back. The question become will we make it back. It's been quiet & peaceful, no one around & haven't seen anyone. To whomever reads this, have an enjoyable trip.
27 September 2008 1 Hiker John, Glen ☺ not the astronaut - Day Pinhoti Trail
Walked here from the lodge today. We left our friend Dixie in the room resting. Pornographic There is a gas shortage now. S we thank God we can still walk. We hope he will forgive us.
28 September 2008 2 Hikers Melanie E, Robin H - Day Pinhoti Trail
Walked / hiked here, good workout. I love it here. -- You got to do this at least once a month with one of your bestest of friends. You learn to appreciate what life is all about. Sharing time with others! Got to go, don't want to get stuck in the dark.
13 October 2008 9 Hikers Evan L, Eric M, Erin W, Brent S, Katie M, Dwight T, Wes S, Kim F, Sunny F - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
My first hiking trip ever! We hiked 6.1 miles today. Camped last night - rained! Not bad. This is absolutely beautiful. God never ceases to amaze me. This creation is wonderful! We are here with our youth group from church. SSBC!
Katie slipped on these rocks and almost said a "wordy dird."
She is so funny!
18 October 2008 1 Hiker Keith H, Huey, Walker, Canaan / K-9 - Day Pinhoti Trail
Today a group of people came here. We are a church group called TRANSFORMERS. We get our name from a bible verse: II Corinthians 3:18. We're from a little place called Alexandria, Al. Keith H gave our devotional.
20 October 2008 2 Hikers Steve & Nancy, (Fluffy & Biff) Dothan, Al Day Pinhoti Trail
God bless you!
A beautiful day for a hike. Perfect weather. Stopped for a moment to rest & reflect on the beauty of nature.
28 October 2008 1 Hiker BCM / Bass Clarinet Man 🎷 - Many Pinhoti Trail
9:15am. Put in at Cheaha, hiking to Coleman Lake. Day is beautiful but cold. High supposed to be in the 50s and low tonight in the 20s. Redoing my hike of last December, but planning an extra day to complete.
31 October 2008 2 Maintainers Marion C, John Calhoun - Day Pinhoti Trail
Here for trail maintenance for the AHTS / Alabama Hiking Trail Society / hikealabama.org also trailjournals.com/mothernaturesson Trail is now clear of blowdowns Adams Gap to Highway 24. And Clairmont Gap to Porter Gap / Highway 77.
31 October 2008 1 Hiker Bryce D - 4 Days Pinhoti Trail
Hiking SOBO from Pinkie Burns to Cheaha Parking Lot. (52.7 Miles / 4 days.) Awesome Trip, Awesome Trail!! Trail Maintenance Guys Are Awesome...
- November 2008 3 Hikers Dixie Doug GA-VA 08, Slow Ride, Juice Elmore County Overnight Pinhoti Trail
Stayed here last night. Great being back in the woods again. Very cold night. Had good time, though. Ate some magic bean ifn you know what I mean. Headed back to Elmore County today. Roll Tide. Peace.
15 November 2008 7 Hikers Troop 4032: Kyle, Tony, Payton, Luke, Robert, Tim, Wayne Talladega, Al Day Pinhoti Trail
1st outing for Kyle & dad Tony. Weather cold & rainy. Great time had by all.
28 November 2008 1 Hiker Troop 4162: Lynn b, Blake, Ray S, James S, Joshua S Sylacauga Day Pinhoti Trail
15 December 2008 3 Hikers - Montevallo Day Pinhoti Trail
Taking shelter from rain here at breakfast. Foggy woods. 3 from Montevallo & beyond.
19 December 2008 3 Hikers Robert, Joshua, Joshua - Day Pinhoti Trail
War Damn Eagle. BEARS! EVERYWHERE!
23 December 2008 1 Hiker Brad J / Bigfoot, Marietta, Ga Day Pinhoti Trail
Hiked here from Turnipseed Camp. Loved every rock of it. Only saw 2 tigers and 3 yetis. "Merry Chrismas" Thank you Lord. ☺ John 3:13
25 December 2008 1 Hiker Lifesaver WFR - 3 Days Pinhoti Trail
Spent last night @ this shelter. It did really well - enduring some strong rains. No rodents - no bears - clean and pleasant & quiet. Headed NB for a few days. Happy trails.
27 December 2008 2 Hikers The Phantom, Dragon Lady - Day Pinhoti Trail
Stayed one night. Very nice shelter. It's good to see water in all the creeks. Great energy here in this place. Remember: Someday is not a day of the week. Life is not a dress rehearsal. This is the real deal, right now.
1 January 2009 2 Hikers Lee & Amanda - Day Pinhoti Trail
Cool & Clear all day. Five miles in, now on our way back. Much better scenery today. Will be back.
4 January 2009 1 Hiker Sam W - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
Wonderful Shelter. Foggy sunrise this morning. It's now about 11 am and the fog is not wanting to break. We stayed here last night with a big black bear named Willee. He is friendly and we ar contemplating taking him back with us. The shadow people were out of the house last night. Maybe they were hunting. We heard gunshots throughout the evening. Stay warm & enjoy your stay.
Second time writing in this book over the 08-09 holiday break. Still have not been spooked or run oft by the shadow folks, but we have witnessed some epic weathe and had some great fires. The Blue Mountain Shelter is now one of my secondary homes, foshizzle. Love & Respect. B2
- January 2009 2 Hikers Brad, Andrew - Day Pinhoti Trail
My roommate & I arrived at the shelter about 7:00pm, just as night had descended into it's dark embrace. We mangaed to build a fire, despite the weather's efforts to thwart us earlier that day. We cooked super yummy steaks. We went to bed at around 9pm. ? it suddenly started storming. The rain was torrentious, the wind was howling, and the tunder & lighning danced with each other. We finally fell asleep around 3:00am. We woke to relatively clear skies and hope to hike anywhere from 4 to 11 miles. Excellent shelter, excellent trail, and excellent adventure. Good luck one and all.
17 January 2009 1 Hiker Minnesota Smith - Many Eastern Continental Trail
Saturday, 17? 19? January 2009
Minnesota Smith stayed here overnight with a great group of weekenders. Listened to my jokes, gave me hot food, let me do a reading of Robert Service's poem "Law of the Yukon."
I am thru hiking the Pinhoti & Appalachian Trail. Did the AT in 2006. My trail journals are on www.trailjournals.com I have one for the Pinhoti & one for the AT.
Weather cold / ~16° last night, cloudy, no precip.
18 January 2009 ? Hikers - - 3 Days Pinhoti Trail
Cupid Sunday 18 January 2009, 3:50pm.
We've been here since Friday night. It's hardly been above freezing but we're young & invincible. And we've had well over a gallon of Jim Beam to help, among other things. We shot two shadow people Saturday, lost the blood trail, got hungry, and returned to camp. We're leaving half a handle of Vodka and some coffe to empower whoever comes after us. Have a great - time and try to avoid being impaled on the tree stumps and bleeding to death in the frozen leaf covered dirt.
peace \ love 💘 Team whiskey Shit Animals
♫Mama, there's wolves in the house
Mama, they won't let me out
They tumble and fight
and they are beautiful♫
(Listen to Phosphorescent, come alive!)
- January 2009 1 Hiker Skillet???, Tremper - Day Pinhoti Trail
Come into camp today (12:46pm now) just bored. ? to go back up to Bald Rock. Hopefully will camp up here sometime, shadow people or no! (Read 'bout shadow people im front of book.) Have a blessed stay & enjoy the Vodka!
- January 2009 2 Hikers L&B - Day Pinhoti Trail
We enjoyed our stay.
1 February 2009 3 Hikers Melanie, Robin H, Lori - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hello, well I am back again! This time Robin H and I brought a new friend Lori! It is such a beautiful day! I got to spend a day wit two special friends. We had lunch, I got me some new tennis shoes before we came. Anyway I love this hike & I always love how sore I am the next day! My back hurts so bad, so the next time I decide to go hiking I am gonna make surethat I am not hurting! I am very thankful that I have my health so I can hike! See Ya.
17 February 2009 ? Hikers BSA Troop 509 Hurlburt Field, Fl Day Pinhoti Trail
¾ miles ← (really 3 miles)
Sunday, 17 February - Monday, 18 February
We are BSA Troop 509 from Hurlburt Field, Fl. We started our trip here on Saturday, and camped at campsite on Cave Creek Trail. Only about 4 miles. Sunday, we hiked Pinhoti Trail for about 8 miles. At one point the sign said only ¾ miles to go [Don't B-leave the Sign!!!!] and it turned out to be 3 miles. That part sucked! When we got to Blue Mountain Shelter a few of us decided to get high. Wow, I could honestly say we were the highest people in Alabama. By high I mean the highest point in Alabama. LOL. A few of us went looking for Bald Rock and ended up at the peak of Cheaha. Also some nice people left us some vodka and we quickly took care of it. Happy trails to all who come here.
PS Also we were thinking the shadow people might come but one scoutmaster scared them off with his warning noise (He snored really bad.)
19 February 2009 1 Hiker BCM / Bass Clarinet Man 🎷 - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hiking the whole Alabama Pinhoti Woods Trail Bull Gap to Cave Spring, Georgia. 4th day from Bull Gap, about 47 miles. Just washed clothes and took a shower at Cheaha State Park, plus had a really great cheeseburger & Fries. Can't eat the dinner Ii planned. Oh well. Monday the 6th was rainy & miserable but cleared abou 6:30pm. Tuesday, Wednesday & today were gorgeous, cool, & sunny. Just wish I had some sunscreen. Great shelter. 3rd time to stay & visited 2 other times. No one else here just like all the other times. My hike is on www. trailjournals.com Pinhoti & BCM
20 February 2009 2 Hikers Rick R, Brandon B - Day Pinhoti Trail
Started at Cheaha Parking Lot at daybreak. Beautiful sunrise! Cold as all getout, though! 8:00am now & we just stopped to see what the shelter looked like. Nice! Good job to whoever maintains this shelter. Gotta run! Good luck to all!
21 February 2009 1 Hiker Gary H Boaz, Al Day Pinhoti Trail
Passing by. Great shelter.
29 February 2009 2 Hikers Mike, Michelle Anniston, Al Day Pinhoti Trail
Just hiking around. We love this shelter.
1 April 2009 1 Hiker Lumbar - Many Eastern Continental Trail, CDT
Just stopping by. Very nice shelter. I'm hiking up from Harold Florida on the way to Springer Mountain. Then Mexico to Canada via the CDT. I'm really enjoying the Pinhoti Trail. Glad to be off the pavement!! Keep hiking.
18 April 2009 1 Hiker Anna dog - Many Pinhoti Trail
Saturday. I actually saw the guy who wrote above on Dugger Mountain on Friday. I guess it was the 3rd. Wow - that's really moving! My dog Anna & I are hiking from the old 278 trailhead to Porter's Gap in stages. Did 278 to 78 week before last and 78 to Cheaha Trailhead this weekend. Anna is a good dog!
24 May 2009 ? Maintainers ATCA: John Calhoun, Dan Bedore, Dale S / Southmark - Day Pinhoti Trail
Thanks to our troops we are here and able to do these hikes.
We're here with the Appalachian Trail Club of Alabama (ATCA)
See www.pinhoti.org
www.pinhotitrailalliance.org
www.gallery.mac.com/dsouth
25 May 2009 2 Hikers Don, Louise - Day Pinhoti Trail
Were here and we loved it/
- - - 1 Hiker Warren J - Many Pinhoti Trail
Thru Hiking for fun this year.
I hiked to Mount Katadyn, Maine before the money ran out. So I got a bicycle and biked back to Birmingham.
Summer '09
I paddled the Alabama Scenic River Trail N to S the back up river! 1250 mile 110 days.
google (Warren J, Birmingham News, Scenic River Trail
28 July 2010 4 Hikers Robbie, Holley, Missy, Anthony - Day Pinhoti Trail
We made it! Love the woods. God must have been smiling when he made this forest.
8 October 2010 2 Hikers Chris Y, Chuck C - 3 Days Pinhoti Trail
Spent the night here after a 13 mile hike from the far side of CR24. We are 22 miles into our trip and hope to make it to Adams Gap by tonight. The shelter was great. Amazing sunrise. Although there are still a lot of leaves on so it was blocked a little. Amazing hike.
- October 2010 2008 2 Hikers Rodney W, Vince P Hope's Bluff, Al Day Pinhoti Trail
Still on the trail.☢⬤
23 October - ? Hikers XT, Russel H - Day Pinhoti Trail
Russel H led us astray again. But, found cabin only to turn around and make it back before dark.
23 October 2010 ? Hikers Sixth Street Baptist Alex City, Al Overnight Pinhoti Trail
Just stopping by on the way to another camp site. Wish we were staying here. LOL. ☺
31 October 2010 2 Hikers Tony, Teresa - Day Pinhoti Trail
Hiked the trails. Beautiful day.
5 November 2010 3 Hikers Jesse A, Parker H, Monty A Wadley, Al 3 Days Pinhoti Trail
5-7 November 2010. Southern Union State Community College
"It was really cold" [Wadley]
6 November 2010 1 Hiker Foxtrot! - Day Pinhoti Trail
7 November 2010 3 Hikers Yixian, Jingyuan, Shu - Overnight Pinhoti Trail
Were camping here. It was fun though cold during the night.

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