Fresh Ground, also known as Tim Davis, represents the heart and soul of trail magic on the Appalachian Trail. This extraordinary trail angel travels along the trail’s route, providing weary hikers with hot meals, fresh coffee, and unparalleled hospitality through his mobile Leapfrog Cafe. His commitment to supporting long-distance hikers has made him a legendary figure in the Appalachian Trail community, offering comfort, nutrition, and hope to those undertaking one of America’s most challenging hiking journeys.\n\n## Who is Fresh Ground?\n\nFresh Ground is a dedicated trail angel who has become synonymous with trail magic on the Appalachian Trail. His real name is Tim Davis, and he operates a mobile food service called the Leapfrog Cafe, which moves strategically along the trail to support hikers during their challenging journey.\n\n### What Makes Fresh Ground Unique?\n\n| Characteristic | Description |\n|—————|————-|\n| Mobile Setup | Moves along different trail sections |\n| Food Offering | Three hot meals daily |\n| Hospitality | Warm, welcoming environment |\n| Motto | “Nobody leaves here hungry” |\n\n## What Services Does Fresh Ground Provide?\n\nFresh Ground offers an incredible range of services for Appalachian Trail hikers:\n\n- Hot Meals: Three daily meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner\n- Fresh Coffee: Personally ground and brewed coffee\n- Rest Area: Comfortable camp chairs for relaxation\n- Hygiene Support: Water for sponge baths\n- Calorie Support: Providing up to 5,000 calories per day\n\n## Where Can Hikers Find Fresh Ground?\n\nFresh Ground’s Leapfrog Cafe is not stationary. He strategically sets up at various locations along the Appalachian Trail, including:\n\n1. Gooch Gap (NOBO mile 240)\n2. River Road near Pigeon River\n3. 100-Mile Wilderness section\n4. Various other trail access points\n\n## What Do Hikers Say About Fresh Ground?\n\nHikers consistently praise Fresh Ground for his:\n\n- Exceptional hospitality\n- High-quality, abundant food\n- Commitment to hiker well-being\n- Adherence to Leave No Trace principles\n- Resilience in challenging weather conditions\n\n## How Does Fresh Ground Support Hikers?\n\nBeyond food, Fresh Ground provides critical psychological support. His setup creates a community space where exhausted hikers can:\n\n- Rest and recuperate\n- Share trail stories\n- Receive emotional encouragement\n- Enjoy a moment of comfort during their challenging journey\n\n## What Makes His Approach Special?\n\nFresh Ground’s approach goes beyond typical trail magic. He understands that long-distance hiking is not just a physical challenge but a mental and emotional journey. By providing a warm, welcoming environment, he helps hikers maintain their motivation and spirit.\n\n## Practical Considerations for Hikers\n\n- Cost: Services are donation-based\n- Availability: Varies along trail sections\n- Preparation: No specific reservation required\n- Dietary Needs: Generally accommodating\n\n## Final Thoughts\n\nFresh Ground represents the best of trail angel culture – selfless support, genuine care, and community spirit. His Leapfrog Cafe has become a beacon of hope for Appalachian Trail hikers, offering more than just food, but a genuine human connection during an extraordinary journey.\n\n### Reference:\n- The Trek – Trail Angel Spotlight\n- Fresh Ground Trail Magic\n- YouTube – Leapfrog Cafe
