Descend Apple Orchard Mt, Thunder Hill (4100'el) to PETITES GAP (2369'el) and Blue Ridge Parkway - Home Sweet Home.

It was a warm night with everyone sleeping on top of their sleeping bags. It was peaceful until about 2 AM when Harry Carey went to the privy and a deer barked at him, startling everyone - especially him. I hit the trail early. I had only 4.7 miles, mostly downhill to hike to Apple Orchard Gap, but I had to be there by 10 AM. I was on the trail by 6:30. The northeast slope of Apple Orchard Mt. was rich with fields of trillium and lots of other wildflowers.

I came to Thunder Ridge Overlook, 3501 feet elevation, a man-made pulpit style overlook off the BRP and was disappointed at the hazy view so early in the morning. The switchbacks down to Petites Gap were gentle and easy. I knew they would not appear that way if I were going up the mountain.

AT 8:30 I reached Petites Gap. I changed into my cleaner hiking duds and went out to a nice shady spot on the edge of the BRP turnoff. A US Forest Service employee came by and we had a pleasant conversation about her job and the beautiful area she worked in. My good friend and neighbor Jim Yeich arrived at the appointed hour, bringing me a fresh change of clothes and a ride home.

Free Spirit and Jim Yeich at Petite's Gap - the end of this trek. Thank you, Jim!

No matter how wonderful the adventure or how beautiful the area, there is no place as sweet as home. Home Sweet home.