Spring Break Part 2 - Isaqueena Falls, Stumphouse Tunnel, and Random Fun

We spent Monday driving up through Seneca and Walhalla to Isaqueena Falls and the Stumphouse Tunnel. Mike wasn't able to come because of work, but we had a good time anyway. We stopped for a few necessities on the way there, and the kids went caterpillar hunting with my mom.

We went to Isaqueena Falls first. The area was really pretty, and even though the hike was a lot shorter than I was hoping for, the walk was the perfect distance for the kids.

Daniel enjoyed the view from his backpack. He loved the ride, and I didn't hear anything from him unless I stopped moving. We'll have to do more of this.

There were a lot of huge bumblebees buzzing around the wood railing and benches. The kids were both panicking and we ended up carrying them there. On the way back I put my foot down and told them they were walking. I'm hoping they'll just get used to the bees here soon. And that I will too.

Isaqueena Falls. There was a wooden platform that marks the end of the trail. You can make a steep climb down to the base of the falls, but I didn't attempt it with the baby on my back. My Dad and Ian went though, and probably got some great pictures from below.

The view from the platform.

Emma hiding behind Ian to escape the killer bees.

Of course we got some pictures to prove that we were there.

I love that he insists on wearing his hat outside. So cute.

5 minutes later the hike was over.

After leaving the waterfall, we headed a few hundred feet up the road to the Stumphouse Tunnel.

Here's the history: It is a 1600 ft railroad tunnel that was started before the Civil War to connect South Carolina to Tennessee, but because of the war construction was stopped. It was used for awhile by Clemson University to make bleu cheese. An airshaft in the top, as well as the insulation of the tunnel, keeps it cool year round. Now it's a tourist attraction for people like me.

It was hot enough outside that inside the tunnel felt great. It was too dark to get pictures at the back of the tunnel, but they have the unsecure area blocked off with a large metal gate. Behind that is where the airshaft is that causes the cool breeze.

The kids were beyond ready to leave the tunnel. Some guy was doing loud spook alley laughs that echoed like crazy. Other than being a little freaked out, they did really well.

We had a lot of fun on this trip, both inside and out. There was a lot of time to kick back and relax, which was awesome. The weather was perfect and we enjoyed all the blossoms while we could. They started to fade by the end of the week.

When we buy a house, I hope we have bushes that blossom like this! They are beautiful, and the only drawback is the bees. Someday we'll adjust to that.