Our Tuesday Adventure in The Smoky Mountains

I’ve mentioned before that we’re not adventurists, hikers, explorers, or risk-takers. But the beauty of the Smoky Mountains is what made us fall in love with the area from the very beginning. So, that fact alone has motivated us to be more than what we are. This area is rife with natural wonders, from plants to animal life, and waterfalls to mountainous terrain. While our idea of an adventure may not jive with the avid outdoorsperson, I certainly wouldn’t discredit it. Here was our day of newfound discovery and second-look destinations.

The day started out with a hearty breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House. My son and I ordered omelets, while my wife doubled up on bacon, with biscuits making up a sandwich. It was delicious as usual, and we directed our attention to our first plan of action for the day.

The House of the Fairies is a fabled find for many, but we hadn’t yet discovered this historically unique spring house. Louis E. Vorheis owned 38 acres of this land from 1928-1944. His intention was for it to be a mountain retreat for the growing tourism that was in its beginning stages. The two creeks that ran across the property were perfect for his interest in water power. Therefore, he built a water-powered mill, and many gardens that highlighted his interest in hydroelectric power, plus the aforementioned spring house.