John P Cable Grist Mll

In Cades Cove there were few sources of power which the frontiersman knew how to harness.

One of those sources was the water wheel such as the one that drove this early grist mill.
A wooden slough channels the water from the river to the mill to create a steady flow for turning the mill.

Enclosed by a snake rail fence, this appeared to be one of the most popular stops on the Cades Cove tour.

Cades Cove

While traveling through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, we had a break from the constant rain that we had experienced for most of the week.

The rain clouds lingered in the background while the horses enjoyed warm temps and green grass.

Budding Laurel

The 1.4 mile hike to Laurel Falls was a steep and steady climb along a muddy pathway. We hopped rocks crossing the stream 4 different times.
Along the way, we enjoyed the fresh buds from the Laurel bush.


The aromas were punctuated by the lingering smoke smell from a fire that burned anything in its path up to the muddy walkway.

Waterfalls

We are still having rain here,
but that just makes the
waterfalls better.

This one was at the Sinks
inside the Smokies.

They are everywhere.

Heading out to search for
more interesting spots.

Mama Bear & her 3 cubs

This was taken from our
car last evening.....
Too many people walking too close to take a peek
Crazy!

Mama was unhappy!

Great Smokies

We are in the Smokies.
Have been experiencing a lot of rain.
But along with the rain
we have great clouds.




Love the way the clouds hang down
over the mountains.
So mystical.

taken last evening on our way home.....

Spring Smoky Mountain Adventure

Rain, Rain, Rain.....
Our first glimpse of the Smokies, and they are drenched
in fog and rain!
We arrived late last nite and our now heading
out to explore.
Boots and rain jackets apparel of the day.