A Freezing Rain Storm Took Me Off Trail to GATLINBURG! 😁 | Appalachian Trail 2023

[@michaelregan4153]

You have no reason to remember me, but I'm the Shaw's Hiker Hostel driver that, because of some miscommunication, delivered your food to you much later than you expected in the Hundred Mile Wilderness back in 2021. Under the circumstances, you and your hiking partner were incredibly kind, for which I was very grateful. I anticipate, and very much enjoy, the daily videos of this year's hike. Thank you for enduring the burden of filming/editing to bring a little joy into our lives.

[@codyhikes4054]

I’m Taylor’s ‘21 partner! You guys were incredibly kind to find us and deliver ice cold cokes! I’ll never forget that!

[@Elizabeth-pt4bv]

I can't imagine Taylor nor Cody being anything but kind and considerate. And I only "know" of them from KZbin. But it's so nice to know that my perception is also reality, and they are that kind. They seem absolutely lovely.

[@aubreyansell1019]

My wife hid in the clingsman secret shelter, terrible storm, heavy ice snow wind, then made a break to head down, slipped and fell, broke her leg in 3 places. Still hobbled to newfound gap then got ride to ER. 6 weeks recovery then she went back out and made it to New York. Broke her wrist which was bad and it took her off the trail. You are fortunate to not fall! Carry on

[@ralfhedin]

Your single most valuable contribution to us less experienced hikers is that you are so transparent with obstacles, bad weather etc etc. Makes our planning and expectations more realistic.Tnx a million!

[@dandavenport4565]

After that cold, damp and miserable hike, that room must have seemed like a heavenly oasis

[@chriswhittington294]

My husband & I love to hike the Smokies, but hate Gatlinburg. Even off season on a Friday, traffic barely moves into town. Glad you got out of the ice. You certainly don't need an injury so early in this journey! Hike on.

[@tomt9543]

I can’t imagine negotiating the Clingman’s Dome viewing tower in an ice storm! Incredible views on a clear day, and sunsets are spectacular there! The fact that you made it off the trail without ice induced injury is a definite win! As far as Gatlinburg, it looks so much more enjoyable in the off season! My visits there have all been during tourist season, and due to the bewildering number of people there, I’ve always said that the best part of going to Gatlinburg was LEAVING Gatlinburg! Ha! Onward!!

[@frankfowlkes7872]

I am in a group that hikes up to the LeConte Lodge every August. We spend the night before in Gatlinburg and Gatlinburg is quite the cultural adventure. One of the trails up to the Lodge, Boulevard , is right off the AT and starts at Newfound Gap. I've never seen more pancake places than they have in Gatlinburg!

[@deborahchadwick210]

So glad you went off trail to Gburg. Icy rain is no joke and Clingman's is tough for us in summer. Glad you have seen the Dome view in good weather. Then NFG and Charlie's Bunion. Tough and we see 71 and 75..thank goodness for poles! G burg is nit a place we love as we live in Maggie Valley on the eastern edge of the park. 441 closes during winter . Take care. Always, we have you and safety on our hearts.

[@debraoliver505]

I hiked up this when I was in my 20s back in the 1970s. It was a nice day but such a steep climb even on pavement! There was times we turned around and walked backwards thinking the break in walking would help (not much!) About 20 years ago a coworker said she was going to go to the Smokies. I said you have to go up this! She's younger than me and I thought she could do it okay but she said it was HORRIBLE and about killed me when she got back to work and told me her story, LOL. We did see a mommy bear and her cubs in the parking lot.

[@hitherehi135]

It was so great to see you with Gabby. We are also following Gabby's AT journey so it was a delight to see you both in the same video. Travel well!

[@roberttrough6439]

Hi 👋 please keep checking local weather. Huge storms moving in again. Enjoy your hike 😊

[@MrMorton]

Taylor! That frozen climb up and down clingman's dome looked scary and dangerous. I'm glad that you're safe and I'm glad that you pulled off to the side to let it get a little nicer out. Journey on and stay safe

[@karaleemanning27]

Ohmygosh, I'm so glad this day is over for you!!! Looks soo cold!

[@craiglenhard-rvrguyd]

In 2018 I remember sitting on the retaining wall next to the ramp entrance and wringing ice water out of my socks after an all-night rain reduced the snowpack by 75% turning the trail into a stream. Been to Clingman's three times and never had a view. LOL.

[@JoellynF]

I hiked that year too….the whole trail was a river for half my time in the Smokeys!

[@craiglenhard-rvrguyd]

@@JoellynF I put plastic bags over my socks to keep the ice water out. A trick I learned in cold weather whitewater paddling.

[@Cindyscrossstitch]

Clingmans dome is the best views when it's clear out. So glad you stopped in gaitlinburg 🌻🌻

[@kellyjohnson3617]

You are so wise to go into town in the freezing rain that is worse than rain or snow. I grew up in WA state snd we got a lot of freezing rain storms. Those were the worst to maneuver in. Our trees would get weighed down. Roads snd walks were super dicey. And it feels colder. Smart idea to get peanut butter. It’s great in and on a lot of things. Great source of protein and fat calories. And tastes great. I love peanut butter in spicy noodle soups as well. Have a great stay.

[@bettyjorodgers8552]

So glad you had a warm night.

[@johnsandell4501]

Smart hiking is safe hiking. Great decision and enjoy your peanut butter.

[@chrisharley4353]

wow! What a room and deal.

[@SmokyMountainsCouple]

You’re in my neck of the woods. That’s 100% the appy hotel in gatlinburg, you got an amazing rate there. Looks like clingmans dome was closed due to the cold for cars, so you had it all to yourself, awesome. Safe travels.

[@dannythecamper4186]

Good video, with one cold night, some good views, 😮, so let's keep on hiking..😊 good job over 200 miles..

[@beck57]

Love this seeing your trek with my morning coffee! Your spirit and attitude in the crazy weather is so enjoyed. ~Safe travels

[@RedStickLouisiana]

The trail looked brutal, I'm glad you got off trail for the night.

[@gratefulhikes]

Hey Taylor! Congrats on 200!! 100% New Englander! Iced coffee in winter conditions! Nice! Glad you made it safe without micro spikes. The forest looked beautiful, very PNW. That room is a steal at $65!thanks for the tip on the NOC deal. Looked like a good time in Gatlinburg. Awesome that everything worked out with rides and such. Then trail provides! 🙏 Thanks for bringing us along today. I hope tomorrow’s miles are kind. Keep truckin’ and be well. -Grateful

[@kenmachine9951]

Hey Taylor 😎 you look great 👍 Ken NC

[@TryingTheHardHikeATAdrieWashne]

That’s how my hike down past Clingmans dome was with all that ice. Pretty scary.

[@bmwman63]

Yeah, I think the smart money in Vegas had you pulling into Gatlinburg. No complaints. I like seeing these small towns. As for the ice coffee, I always got to keep a little bag of good instant coffee to top them off a little bit. What they provide in those little packets just doesn't suffice for my sailor's palate. Keep logging those miles Tailor. I'm enjoying the videos. Thanks for making them.

[@elkhound25]

WOW super nice room for that price ! hope it warms up the next few days for you in Smokies as you finish that area.

[@chuckoffcampus9738]

I enjoyed all the town video. I didn't know there was an NOC branch in Gatlinburg!

[@johnelliott5923]

Your gonna be queen for a day ! Enjoy as I know you will!

[@randywineke5416]

Congrats on 200 miles on the trail. Ice on the trail and bad weather. Stay Safe and HIKE ON!!!

[@nickhikesinthewoods6150]

It seems like the weather is the worst this year on the A T everyone is just getting hit with extreme cold

[@papadawg3172]

Wow. That was an icy spot at Clingmans Dome. I remember going by it in early march 2020. There was ankle deep slush, rain, sleet, thunder, lightning, high winds. It was so wet I couldn't get my phone out for pictures. One of the scariest days I've had on trail. But finished out well at a shelter that I had all tom myself.

[@dinaracrawford5172]

I miss gatliburg a lot, used to live and work there for 7 years

[@kaybaldwin7842]

Thank you for showing the hotel & NOC gear store in Gatlinberg. Very helpful!

[@Direct19681]

The PB 2 peanut butter powder is excellent and much lighter.

[@MJG70]

Balance is always the key

[@david.conley]

Taylor, I really wanted to see you slide down the ramp at Clingmans Dome...did you try? Good choice to stay in town. I like that you want to put in a lot of miles but still take time to enjoy yourself and "make memories " with a cold coffee.☕️☕️ ONWARD!!

[@debsmith7050]

Wise you!!! "Old" Gatlinburg is still hidden among all the new over commercialized businesses - you just have to know where to look; it is still lovely.....not the time for you to explore for sure. Glad you had a safe hike and a good place to sleep. BTW I have never been to the Smokies without seeing bears

[@Yetithruhikes]

Platinum blazing all the way for nearly all 14 days on trail. Seems like you're having a great time. 😅

[@jimhenderson387]

What horrendous hiking conditions! If you ever want a different kind of experience, visit Gburg in the summer. It's crazy!

[@jeffretey]

That looked like a rough hiking day with the ice and such, which started with a tent in the shelter, lol.. Ah well. Enjoy your hike and the bigger miles!

[@lynelljansen8057]

yay Gatlinburg ! If you can get past the touristy feel and the traffic it can be a fun place. We have stayed at the Appy hotel and loved it, we also love visiting the NOC, so does my dog she loves the little bridge and walking across. be safe in the Smokies. Hopefully, it warms up a bit.

[@somedavehikes]

I had the same visibility last year! can't get 'em all, but the cool greenery leading up to there was awesome!

[@jgeisler]

That section was definitely sketchy with that ice. Good call on going into Gatlinburg. It looks like really nice accomodations.

[@dustinhadley7988]

That’s basically how Clingman’s Dome looked for me on my AT hike. Not the best view for my 40th birthday. Glad to hear your previous visit was better.

[@sheilastevens7956]

That ice is scary! Thank you for sharing this experience.

[@ricksergent2471]

Seems always icy around the dome and new found Gap but beautiful be in the burg 4 weeks going up to the dome

[@ffstopP]

You hike safely as well as persistently. Good job. Good video. Good luck. See you on the trail. Walk on.

[@LynnStAubin-od5qe]

It’s great to get the views from Clingmans, but there’s also something cool about seeing it rise out of the fog. Your first bear in the Smokies at 7:44?😉

[@Erin60147]

What a great day … especially in Gaitlinburg. Enjoying your trek.. thanks.

[@hdbinnc8583]

You look much better rested. Great decision! Keep charging!

[@chrissaunders8284]

Crappy weather turned into an opportunity. Gatlinburg is a fun spot.

[@steveadkins1888]

yay notification bell digger switched off, feetup coffee early break escape to the trail for10mins , even in the rain that scenery looks stunning thank you

[@miketognacci7937]

Taylor is the best!

[@Dante07cid]

Love Gatlinburg and hiking the nearby Smokies. Glad you got a good deal. Wise decision for sure.

[@Elizabeth-pt4bv]

Thanks for all the work you do on the videos, seriously have enjoyed them since 2021. 😊

[@donald2818]

Nice choice!

[@llw8089]

I’m enjoying your videos and wish you good luck . We have a place close to your mom’s gift shop in NH and I am also a close friend of Shirley F. Alyssa ‘s mom!

[@rogerwarr4673]

Killin it!

[@Bscott-390]

I've done this section before. I've never done it in the ICE. woah. I'm' loving you're videos. Gonna enjoy following you all the way to Maine. Keep it up!!

[@Mspiggytmike]

This is awesome! Explore while you're young! By the way, in this section Appalachia is pronounced like....I'm going to throw an "Apple At Cha". Oh my goodness, where did you stay? That's a bargain!

[@D4nnypery]

Doing awesome! Just keep that positive attitude spring is a-coming!

[@mjperkolator8854]

I don’t blame you for stopping in Gatlinburg. Ice and soup together! That was thick fog. Nice room!

[@1z1zmike]

Pretty lace pics…stay safe!🙂🙏

[@majajackson777]

I know they're not easy for hikers but I love watching people hike the Smokeys. The nature is awesome! I love the trees and the somewhat darker, gloomier scenery. ❤️ Thanks for another interesting vlog!

[@joeandrucyk951]

Thank you for sharing. I have been enthusiastically following your journey. The ice is VERY scary. A slip fall injury can be a trip ender. You mention Bears. Up here in Maryland they are still hibernating. Based on what I am seeing there, I strongly suspect they are still hibernating there also. #1 the temps are still very cold. #2 If a bear were to come out of hibernation, there is NOTHING to eat! It would starve! Solo hiking I have actually stumbled on to a Black bear on the AT in Shenandoah (In the summer). I was making great time and focused on my stride, I believe the Bear was focused on eating something on the side of the trail. We both looked up to see on another about 25 feet away. We scared each other. I was stunned. The bear took off and seemed to disappear within 30 feet of running. AMAZINGLY, I distinctly heard NOTHING! Not a sound! No paws on the trail, and no twigs snapping? A squirrel on the other hand.... Thank. you for filming and editing. It adds a lot of work to your adventure. WE appreciate it.

[@danexploringohio]

I want to be out there so bad :)

[@albradley6634]

Hi Taylor. I just came across your KZbin videos a few days ago and am now caught up. These are so enjoyable and impressive. Have a great journey.

[@robertdesrosiers4743]

youre doin great big t at409.7 he says they trying to tag him platinum t lol

[@spectrum10]

A shelter with gutters. I have never seen that before. Raindrops won't keep falling on your head, cryings not for you! You're not going to stop the rain by complaining. Cause your free, nothing's worrying you.

[@rockylee6247]

I live in Waynesville N.C. And my dad poured all the original concrete when Clingmans Dome safe travels to you

[@Trumkin42]

For the first time a day you made shorter miles than me! 😮 😂 Really sad about the weather though newfound gap was a party when I got there.

[@wanderingfeet3053]

Been to that hotel… super nice

[@RickINFJ]

65 bucks!? What an amazing deal. So glad you made it through the ice safely. ✌️

[@leahg180]

Now that you have peanut butter for your oatmeal, pick up a Hershey's bar or other chocolate and put a couple pieces in the oatmeal with the peanut butter while everything's still hot so it all gets melty - tada, Reeses oatmeal!

[@ALORDW]

Tent in the shelter?! 🤔 Glad to see you got off trail, that ice looks scary.

[@turragorman59]

Yes, oatmeal and peanut butter is good. Taylor, add some walnuts or pecans. Healthy fats are great. If craving some chocolate, add mini chips and roll into balls and put in baggie. Great energy along the trail. Great deal on hotel too.

[@mmebettiep33]

Was it “Zach” that was your shuttle driver? I was considering using him when I do that section.

[@amandab4728]

I look forward to your daily videos.

[@1024Pete]

I am actually enjoying this trek more as opposed to 2021. Your choice of accommodations is making me laugh. In a nice way because it’s more comfy than your 2021 trek. I didn’t realize the possibilities. As I explained to my wife this seems more like glamortreking. My wife’s reply was “you go girl”. I am considering your approach. You have nicely adapted. Good for you!

[@debraoliver505]

Yes, definitely glamour treking! I have read several books and KZbin videos of other hikers. They didn't have metal containers for food even! And I thought I was a junk food eater but she has me beat! All the other thru hiking stories I have read cook pretty much all their meals and maybe only a handful of hostels/motels during the entire hike. She is a pampered hiker but I love how many miles she can do in a day!

[@stevematosky1086]

Congrats on 200, crazy with the icy conditions and cold wow!

[@scottfarrar3441]

Why didn't you share the Hotel/Motel that gave you a Thru-Hiker discount?

[@MateoTiller]

Awesome! Gatlinburg is such a great place! My family used to own a chalet about 20 minutes from the main strip. It’s changed a bit over the years, but it’s still such a wonderful place to visit. Very family friendly and not outrageous in prices. Speaking of outrageous, don’t go to Pigeon Forge, lol. Too touristy, imho.

[@jeffreykirkland]

Yes storms summons spirits 😮And the primal side in humanity anything is possible in a storm wolfs hunt in them so .

[@dr.nigelcool3771]

I've got to check out your equipment list because that collapsible drink bottle thing and the way you attach it to your backpack strap looks like something very useful for me. I don't like the typical Camelbak bladder and hose setup.

[@frolege1]

Holy Shit … that’s a steal of a deal for $65 … NICE !!!

[@qsbroom]

Too bad about Clingman's being socked in and icy...seems like the weather has really sucked this year forAT hikers...glad you are safe..you made a good decision...msybe better weather is in the near future! Thanks for the vlog

[@PedroNord]

🦋

[@arothko8939]

You can run it with micro spikes.

[@chasing-the-afterglow]

Taylor, try brownie bites and put peanut butter on them...yum!!!!!

[@EastWind123]

Gatlinburg feels like another planet when you've been in the woods (and even when you haven't). I mostly love it and kinda hate it. 😆 That definitely seemed like a good time to get off trail, and get warm and dry and caught up with Survivor. What was the name of that hotel, please? Does anyone know?

[@BubblegumHikesAgain]

I was wondering the same thing. I didn't see any logo or sing for the hotel anywhere 🤔

[@marilynmccormick7459]

The Appalachian Lodge I think….but it goes by the “Appy.”

[@Ladythyme]

Bears are smarter than to be meandering through the woods on a day like that! 😂

[@danabauer8914]

Was the weather better on your first AT hike 🤔? Hello to Gabby 👍

[@christyjohnson4563]

I enjoy the lives!!

[@gyh11293]

PB in oatmeal is the BEST on trail!

[@marilynm5024]

Wow that ice can be dangerous. Glad you made it safely into town.

[@brianm9467]

The view and weather is totally different from when I was there last year in May and Sept. Glingmans dome has awesome views. Was up there just after sun rise in Sept.

[@yachmets1616]

Taylor, I enjoy your posts... especially this one in the Smokies, as I was there last fall. I am searching for rain gear that will not wet out in a prolonged downpour. How is yours working for you? I'll trust and probably abide by your recommendation. Thank you.

[@kovenant7]

Maybe you already know but saucony has a ice version of peregrine shoe type.

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

Yup! I have some of those, at home haha