Fairy House

Mossy stone springhouse hidden off Twin Creeks Trail

InsideGreat Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview

A true hidden gem, the House of the Fairies is a mossy stone springhouse from the 1928–1940s Voorheis Estate, tucked on the hillside behind the Twin Creeks Science & Education Center off Cherokee Orchard Road. It looks straight out of a storybook—arched stone doorway, stairs to the top, and a cool, echoey interior.

Getting There

Easiest: Drive Cherokee Orchard Road to the Twin Creeks Science & Education Center area. Parking is limited and some spots are posted—obey all signs. From the facility sign, walk the paved road into the complex. Near a fire hydrant by the “Discover Life in America” building, follow the small path along the chain fence uphill to the springhouse. Another option at the end of the facility road: keep the barn-like building on your right and follow the fence up the path.
Walk-in alternative: Park at Mynatt Park in Gatlinburg and walk up Cherokee Orchard Road to the Science Center, then take the spur as above.
Full hike: Take Twin Creeks Trail (about 4.5 miles round trip). After you pass the Resource/Science Center, look for a small, worn spur path leading uphill to the springhouse. Expect uneven footing and occasional mud.

What You’ll See

The springhouse is built entirely of stone with a graceful arch and an open doorway. Stairs climb to the top, and you can step inside to appreciate the craftsmanship. Along Twin Creeks Trail you’ll also pass other remnants of the old estate, including buildings and a water mill site along LeConte Creek.

History

Businessman Louis E. Voorheis created a mountain retreat here between 1928 and the 1940s, experimenting with water features and power on his property. The springhouse is one of the surviving structures; the broader estate is now part of the Twin Creeks Science & Education Center area.

Wildlife & Trail Notes

Twin Creeks sees occasional snakes and black bears—give wildlife plenty of space and follow standard safety practices. The spur to the springhouse is informal and unmarked; it can be slick after rain and is easier to spot in winter when leaves are down.

Best Time to Visit

Go early or on weekdays for the best chance at a legal parking spot and a quieter visit. Leaf-off season makes the spur easier to find and photograph. Cherokee Orchard Road is generally open year-round, weather permitting—always check current park conditions before you go.

Make a Day of It

If you want more than a quick photo stop, the full Twin Creeks Trail is an easy-to-moderate outing with creek sounds, estate remnants, and a peaceful feel. Picnic spots exist near the Science Center area, but don’t expect services at the springhouse itself.

Etiquette

This is a fragile historic site—stay on established paths, don’t climb on stonework beyond the designed stairs, and pack out everything you bring.

Pros

Whimsical moss-covered stone springhouse you can step inside
Quick detour from Twin Creeks Science Center or via Twin Creeks Trail

Cons

Very limited, sometimes restricted parking near the Science Center
Unmarked spur can be muddy and easy to miss when foliage is thick

Tips

If parking near the Science Center is full or posted, use Mynatt Park or Ogle Place and walk in.
From the facility sign, follow the paved road; by the fire hydrant near the Discover Life in America building, take the fence-line path uphill.
For the full experience, hike Twin Creeks Trail (~4.5 miles RT) and take the short spur after passing the Resource/Science Center.
Go early or on weekdays for easier parking and fewer people.
After rain the spur is slick and muddy—wear shoes with good traction.