Dates ........ Sunday May 12, 2002
Miles ........ 1.6 miles
From ........ Mountain Momma's hostel
To ............. Interstate 40 exit 451 TN/NC line Pigeon River END OF HIKE
Weather ... Sunny, warm, humid 70's

Sunday May 12, 2002

State Line Branch and gorge, Pigeon River

Several of us took the opportunity to help a fellow hiker out. When I noticed the hiker not eating breakfast because of a lack of funds, we collected over $25.00 to keep the hiker going in the spirit of true Trail Magic. It was one last act that made me feel even better about this hike.

The unique, charming and altruistic Mountain Mamma.

Breakfast was a treat. I had orange juice, scrambled eggs, ham, hash browns, toast and coffee. I had momma make me two ham and egg sandwiches to go, for later. Frank decided to rest his feet for another day. He wasn't hiking but would shuttle up to the trailhead with us. Mamma only charged a dollar for the 1.5-mile ride up the steep, switchback dirt road. When we got there and unloaded, VQ came out of the woods and joined Frank in a ride down to the hostel. Pablo, Shreck and I hit the trail. I only had 1.6 miles of trail to cover to complete my hike. Actually, if I continued another mile down the road from Mountain mammas, I would have been at my pickup point. I wanted to finish the last of my trail section.

I was so glad I chose to hike the short section of trail. It started off nearly level, over a hill, then descended and went parallel to the State Line Branch and gorge. What a beautiful cascade of water over rock through the forest it was. Every step was a pleasure. Then I came out to the beautiful Pigeon River. Over the bridge and across the river was my pickup point - at the end of the I 40 exit 451 ramp. I sat in the shade and enjoyed the two ham and egg sandwiches mamma had made for me. She browned the bread on the grill. Oh, they were SO good!

Pigeon River

My good friend Jim Yeich showed up early as usual. We had a little time so we went back t o Mountain Mammas. I introduced Jim to Frank and the others and bought us an ice cream cone and cold soda for the road.

I can't thank Jim Yeich enough for retrieving me from this beautiful wilderness adventure and transporting me home. His many kindnesses will be long remembered.

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