Boonsboro, MD (USA)

Woke up at 0700 but still got a bit of a late start on the trail (1000 - because I stopped for breakfast at Roy Rogers near Frederick) - used I-495, I-270, I-70 and US-40A. Regardless, the timing ended up being perfect by the end! Parked at Turners Gap (US-40A) again - headed south this time. I planned to hike to Crampton's Gap Shelter (roughly 7 miles). Made good time in the pleasant weather and talk...ed to several folks (especially near White Rocks Overlook). Right at the turnaround point, I stopped to sync up my pedometer with the map mileage (iPhone not tracking right). My behavior attracted the attention of two section hikers, Lisa and Sue. After a few minutes of friendly chit-chat with them, I learned they were hiking all the way to Weverton Road, which would connect two sections for me. They graciously offered to give me a ride back to my car, since they were going anyway, so I tagged along with them all the way through nearly 15 miles of A.T. and side trails (one direction for once - no backtracks!). We enjoyed great weather, amazing views and made great time as a group. Highlight was Weverton Cliff, overlooking the Potomac River. When we eventually got back to my car (1700), they asked me to join them for dinner at the Old South Mountain Inn, a nearly 300 year old building on the trail. Had a great time with them - good food, conversation and well-deserved rest! 13.89 miles today / 133.92 Total on A.T.