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Shadowfax
Jefferson Hill
Trail: Appalachian Trail Goal: 2185 Miles
Dates: Mar 001 2015 - Sep 002 2015
My name is Jeff Hill from York, SC and I've been planning a thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail since April 2014. I was still active duty in the United States Marine Corps at this time and decided after my enlistment there would be no better time to ... more
My name is Jeff Hill from York, SC and I've been planning a thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail since April 2014. I was still active duty in the United States Marine Corps at this time and decided after my enlistment there would be no better time to achieve this personal goal of mine since I won't be enrolled in college at this time, committed to a career, no children to take care of, and many other reasons. Although not all hikers make it to Katahdin, whether because of injury, lack of funds, or just loss of interest/perseverance please understand it would take more than this to keep me from completing the thru-hike. Now... although the act of hiking is individualistic and often solitary, I figure why not harness the awesome power of family/friends and give back to the community in the process? Hiking for a cause. I'm very certain everyone is familiar with the Wounded Warriors Project and who they help, our military. If you're not, it would take no time to see and understand the ones they're helping. What would take even less time is donating to them through my miles. Everyone is eager to avoid scams, and very cautious to not let that dollar go to waste but, to give back to the ones who have given up more sacrifices than most humans will ever be able to understand is a very noble and extraordinary feeling for the giver. Rather seeing it as flushing the money down the drain, I highly suggest you watch a WWP video (http://youtu.be/oeg389PN3_U) showing exactly who your money will help and reconsider. Feel the overwhelming pride in yourself and know secretly that the next time you thank a member of the military, you've gone above and beyond the usual handshake, smile and "Thank you for your service". less
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Total
Pledges |
Total
per Mile |
Total
Pledged |
Miles
Hiked |
Dollars
Hiked |
Total
Donated |
32 |
$1.23 |
$2687.55 |
2185 |
$2687.55 |
$1489.55 |
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Wounded Warrior Project serves veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound, co-incident to their military service on or after September 11, 2001 and their families. On that date, America watched in horror ... more
Wounded Warrior Project serves veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness, or wound, co-incident to their military service on or after September 11, 2001 and their families. On that date, America watched in horror as approximately 3,000 people died including hundreds of firefighters and rescue workers. Many warriors note a sense of duty to volunteer for the military following these tragic events. less
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Creepin', Week Six 'Apr 7 - Apr 13'
Black Bear Resort, TN - Thomas Knob, VA - Mile 501 - Apr 13th, 2015
April 7th - Day 36
Thirty minutes after I left this morning it started raining. It was the hardest it has rained since beginning the trail. It was a rainy 15.9 mile hike to Black Bear Resort, TN. On the way there I was planning a FBL (Full Blown Lunch) with good food and rest at the shelter. However, I realized that I was not carrying enough food so I pushed on to the resort. I was relieved to find that Blear Bear Resort’s food shelf was catered toward hikers. I pigged out and relaxed in the hiker hangout room watching Joe Dirt.
April 8th - Day 37
We arrived at Laurel Falls after the first 3 miles of the day. It was a gorgeous sight to see. It was a huge raging waterfall that you can hear the roar of well before you arrive. The locals told us that a father and son drowned there in a heavy whirlpool at the bottom of the falls. Now, they don’t allow people to swim in them. There is a heavy mist that will soak you within a few minutes of standing near them. Looking for the next white blaze was difficult. After sometime we realized part of the trail has you shimmy around a boulder putting you in the middle of a river on a cliffside that is only a foot wide. It was thrilling and nerving at the same time! We hiked another 7.5 miles to Watauga Shelter, TN. The shelter was closed off due to bear activity but we were told thunderstorms were coming so we stayed anyway.
April 9th - Day 38

As of today, I have a new longest hike record! We did 27 miles from 8:00am-7:30pm. It was exhausting but not too bad. I took some short breaks to keep my feet from aching so bad. I was going to stop at a water source but skipped it due to swarming black flies. So, I pushed another 3 miles to to Double Springs Gap, TN where I didn’t get water again but, was too tired to care.

April 10th - Day 39

Today I crossed the TN and VA border! The first three hours it down poured. It was 12.8 miles to Woodchuck Hostel in Damascus, VA. Once arriving at the hostel I found Jon already there meaning he yellow-blazed. Yellow blazing is when you skip miles by vehicle and it is highly frowned upon. He wanted to skip the thunderstorm and yellow-blazed 14 miles coming into Damascus, VA. I gave him a lot of hell for it because we have been in worse situations since we’ve started. Just yesterday we discussed yellow-blazing and how its not thru-hiker material.
April 11th - Day 40
We decided to take a zero day in Damascus, VA to explore the town. It is a cool town that I’d like to revisit. The town is for trail lovers and is known as the friendliest town on the AT. This is also the town where Trail Days is held. Jon and I biked the Creeper Trail. It is 32 miles total and runs parallel to the AT. We biked the southern part of the trail to Abingdon, VA which was 17 miles. There is a footbridge that used to be a train trestle you ride over with views of waterfalls. On the Creeper Trail my tire popped 15 miles into Abingdon, VA. I paid $25 to get a brand new tire. When returning the bike to Woodchuck back in Damascus, VA, I was allowed to stay for free since the cost of the stay and the tire was the same. We received some unfortunate news while in Abingdon, VA, Chip quit the trail and was already on his way back home. However, we were able to reconnect with 4 and 5 for the first time in awhile.
April 12th - Day 41
We left Damascus, VA and walked 15 miles on the northern half of the Creeper Trail to where it connects to the AT. On the Creeper Trail we stopped at a country cafe and loaded up on double bacon cheeseburgers. From there, we decided to camp under the Creeper Trail Bridge.
April 13th - Day 42

While hiking 14.1 miles to Thomas Knob Shelter, VA, I saw a mean garter snake and got him to strike my camera on the end of my trek pole. I stumbled on what appeared to be big long cotton socks with a note attached. This was the oddest type of trail magic I’ve seen of so far, and wasn’t sure if it might’ve been joke. I can’t think of many hikers that would trade their wet socks for wet cotton socks that have been sitting in the woods for who knows how long. But it was done all with good intentions. Once I got out of the woods, the trail took me to a bald that came with very heavy wind and rain. The trail went up and over many balds and after a rocky incline, I finally made it to Thomas Knob Shelter, VA. The shelter was on a peak and received lots of abuse from the weather. When I arrived, there were only 2 other hikers there but by nightfall it was a full house.


Total mileage thus far: 501

Shadowfax
Black Bear Resort, TN - Thomas Knob, VA - Mile 501 - Apr 13th, 2015
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Jeff, Sorry it has taken so long for me to get online and pay my pledge. I went in and paid mine to Wounded Warriors website. I am so proud of you for what you did... you are a remarkable man!
Kaye Smith
Mar 003 2016 06:07AM
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Jeff, congratulations on completion of your goal and for supporting Woundsd Warriors. I've paid my pledge, although I'm listed as both Mike and William, we are one in the same.
William Hemlepp
Nov 15 2015 07:50AM
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Happy you are safe and proud to have made good on my pledge--$100 to WWP today.
Dana Kay
Aug 14 2015 08:36AM
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Thinking of you a lot and hoping the weather is getting better so you'll have no more frozen socks & boots. Praying for safety for you, Jon, and the many other hikers on the trail. Know that when you're tired and worn down, we've got your back. We're all pulling for you in reaching your goal! HUGS
Martha Simpson
Apr 20 2015 05:21AM
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Thought of you, Jeff...as I read the following verse. The reference to the "tent" brought your face to my mind... got me thinking that as you hike and see God's creation each day...what a marvelous time in your life. I pray you relish, absorb it and give God the glory for All that He has done in your life and at this time of your life as you take each step in your journey---I pray that you recognize HIs voice as you personally witness the wind through the trees, the birds sing their praises to the One who created them and provides for them each day. I pray you see God through His works on the trails and mountains you will climb today, tomorrow and the next day---for that is why we are all here, to give honor, praise and glory to the Alpha/Omega, the beginning/the end, the all knowing, all seeing, ever present God who craves our attention and our relationship with Him....so much so that He came as a man. xoxoxox--Aunt Missy
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat. The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults. Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me! Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. (â€Psalm‬ â€19‬:â€1-14‬ ESV)
Melissa Porter
Apr 10 2015 04:11AM
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Keeping up with your progress on here and with Ashlyn. Keep charging forward. We are enjoying the updated photos and journal entries.
Ray Barnwell
Apr 002 2015 02:57AM
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Loving the updates. You're a month in today and we all are behind you in spirit! :)
Martha Simpson
Apr 001 2015 07:03AM
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Keep em comin!
Fletcher Partridge
Apr 001 2015 05:01AM
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Wow! Such an impressive goal, and raising awareness for others to boot! Proud of you. Ashlyn keeps us updated and you are missed and always on our minds and in our hearts.
Martha Simpson
Mar 31 2015 05:31AM
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Praying and Thinking of you!! If you through KY, I can bring you socks!!! ;0)
A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.†A voice says, “Cry!†And I said, “What shall I cry?†All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades when the breath of the Lord blows on it; surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. Go on up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good news; lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good news; lift it up, fear not; say to the cities of Judah, “Behold your God!†Behold, the Lord God comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young. (â€Isaiah‬ â€40‬:â€3-11‬ ESV)
Melissa Porter
Mar 21 2015 1:23PM
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Thinking of you while you are on the trail and love getting your updates... Praying for safe journey, new friends, plenty of provisions, your health, and an experience of a lifetime. You and Jon watch out for each other and we shall see you soon. Proud of you! Love Mom
Holly Hill
Mar 15 2015 5:18PM
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Thinking of you while you are on the trail and love getting your updates... Praying for safe journey, new friends, plenty of provisions, your health, and an experience of a lifetime. You and Jon watch out for each other and we shall see you soon. Proud of you! Love Mom
Holly Hill
Mar 009 2015 02:17AM
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Jeff, wishing you the very best of luck on your upcoming journey. As much as this trip is an adventure that will test your strength and personal will, I have to say I'm impressed with your selfless desire to help others in the process. Congrats to you for making this a reality as I know you've worked hard for a long time and have been patient in the process. You've earned this opportunity to explore our lands and reflect on this great nation you helped protect. Remember, wave to the cars when walking over I-70 in MAryland and call upon me at anytime!
Fletcher Partridge
Feb 27 2015 05:54AM
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William Hemlepp
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 paid!
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Tim Malone
Fantastic job, Jeff! Honored to join the WWP!
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$0.10 per mile
up to $218.50
$218.50 paid!
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Patty Daugherty
Bless you for doing this for our Wounded Warriors.
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$109.25 paid!
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sydney waring
Good luck. Glad you r supporting WW. TY for yr service
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$109.25 paid!
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Barnwell Farms
I am proud of you and what you are doing.
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$0.07 per mile
up to $152.95
$152.95 due
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Tina McCully Davis
Stay strong and safe... Thank you for your service!
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$109.25 due
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Martha Simpson
Prayers for Safety, Provisions, and Good Weather! MS
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$109.25 due
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Pella DQ
Semper Fi Marines! Proud of you!
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$0.01 per mile
up to $21.85
$50.00 paid!
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Paul Tate
Semper Fi
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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James and Marjory Blankenship
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$50.00 paid!
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Kaye Smith
OOHRAH!!!! Enjoy but be safe!
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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Dana Kay
God is my strong refuge he makes my pathway safe.
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$100.00 paid!
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Beth Martinez
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 paid!
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Harry Miller
This is awesome man, have fun!
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$0.01 per mile
up to $21.85
$21.85 due
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Anonymous
If you ain't TAP!
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$0.10 per mile
up to $218.50
$218.50 due
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Tim Harris
Good luck Jeff and Jon
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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Anonymous
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$0.10 per mile
up to $218.50
$218.50 paid!
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Emma Hill
I am so incredibly proud of you!
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$0.04 per mile
up to $87.40
$87.40 due
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Laura dostert
Good luck Jeff!
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$109.25 due
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John Wentling
Awesome adventure Jeff, we will keep you in our prayers.
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$50.00 paid!
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Mike Hemlepp
Proud of you Jeff. Saddle up.
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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Jim Wheeler
Bless you Jeff
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$100.00 paid!
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Jan Oliver
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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Tommy Ayers
Semper Fi
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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Wayne Broach
Semper Fi! Glad to help.
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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Greg Linn
"Not all who wander are lost..." - J.R.R. Tolkien
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$0.02 per mile
up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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Colleen Linn
Endurance is not just the ability to bear a hard thing, but
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up to $43.70
$43.70 due
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Fletcher Partridge
Get r done
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up to $43.70
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sandy alford
Good luck!
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$0.04 per mile
up to $87.40
$87.40 paid!
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Anonymous
Great cause! Best of luck on the hike.
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$150.00 paid!
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Anonymous
So proud of you for doing this!!
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$0.05 per mile
up to $109.25
$109.25 paid!
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Melissa Porter
What an adventure!!! Many blessings to you!!!
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$0.03 per mile
up to $65.55
$50.00 paid!
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