By: Corky Guenther

Members of the gang met at Smith’s Corner (US321 & NC18 for those not here long enough to remember). The “Hill” this time was Mt Mitchell which at over 6600 feet is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River – for those non-Southeasterners who might not know. This was a return trip for several of the gang as it was one of the destinations from last year. For Priscilla and I it was a first time event. We had gone about ½ mile when we stopped to leave one car. Then off up 321 to Blowing Rock where we picked up NC221 a great twisting road climbing toward Grandfather Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway. We entered the parkway and pit stopped at Little Switzerland. After stretching etc., we got back on the parkway to the entrance to Mt Mitchell State Park. We had lunch in the restaurant and then drove up the mountain to the parking lot from where it was a short but steep hike to the observation platform at the top. The day was mostly cloudy and somewhat hazy but the view was clear enough to identify several of the landmarks shown on photos on the platform.

When we left the park we headed back north on the parkway and folks dropped off as we went along. There were 5 cars left in the train when we stopped at an orchard for an Ice Cream break. Four cars when we left. That’s when I noticed that the FUEL light was on. I had dipped the tank at our pit stop and there were 7 TC gallons left in it. Those who are familiar with my track record Vis a Vis fuel will understand the panic that ensued. We consulted Garmin looking for a station with a diminishing distance away as we traveled north. We plotted a course to the nearest one. We signaled the Ahrendts that we were leaving the train and they followed us for moral support. When we stopped at the pump, I dipped the tank again and still had 5 TC gallons left! The FUEL light came on again about a mile from the house. Cause as yet undetermined. It’s a puzzlement.

Aside from the panic and puzzlement we had a great day and are looking to the next hill.