Harrisonburg, VA (USA)

[I had hoped to leave at 0430 this morning but late night festivities at Bob's derailed that plan (it was worth it, though). I departed almost four hours late.  Got gas in New Market (0845). Still made it to the trailhead in the Mount Pleasant area (FS-48) by 1130. Headed NOBO, chased all day by a very warm sun and a gentle breeze. Didn't see anyone for a few hours (everyone else had headed SOBO) - I did encounter a deer, right on the trail, though. There were also butterflies and lots of colorful flowers everywhere. Like the rest of the stretch between Roanoke and Rockfish Gap, this section had several roller coasters (+/- 500 feet). About two miles from my turnaround point (Piney River North Fork), I met a family who had stopped to eat lunch. We talked for awhile, sharing stories about good hiking areas and places to camp. Soon after, I talked to my first flip-flopper of the season (SOBO). After I backtracked, I ran into "Bearfoot/Barefoot" (AKA "Mountain Slider"), another flip-flopper (NOBO) who startled me while expressing his inner monologue as I came around the bend. He was out of water and seemed very worried about this. When he started talking about Trail Magic (he had found a cooking pot and a bottle of bourbon!), I realized I had extra water to share. Of course, it was in an often-used plastic bottle (the kids have chastised me for reuse, but I've persisted...). He wasn't too proud or picky to take it from me - we're all best friends on the trail, right? ?? Later, I found what I believe was his water purifying kit - he may have trouble without it... Ultimately, I made it to the top of the last ridge (after a few more conversations) and then enjoyed the stroll downhill to my car, finishing my roughly 12 mile day around 1600. Felt tired but satisfied, since I don't have any more VA miles left (outside of SNP) north of Roanoke. Headed back to Harrisonburg and checked into Motel 6 at 1720.  Enjoyed dinner with Erin at the Festival Center (1915) and then took dorm tours with Erin and Brenna.  The day was the perfect mix of driving, exploring, exercising and socializing! AT Today = 5.80 miles / G.T. AT = 742.18 miles]