Little Greenbrier School & Metcalf Bottoms - A neon sign lights up the words "cocktail bar."
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Little Greenbrier School & Metcalf Bottoms

4.8
·368 reviews·Gatlinburg, United States

Step back in time at this 1882 one-room schoolhouse and church, nestled in the Smokies with a scenic creek and historic cemetery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Little Greenbrier School & Metcalf Bottoms - A neon sign lights up the words "cocktail bar."

Little Greenbrier School & Metcalf Bottoms

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at this 1882 one-room schoolhouse and church, nestled in the Smokies with a scenic creek and historic cemetery.

4.8
(368 reviews)

"A neat, beautiful, and serene place that gives you a sense of going back in time."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Rough Road Ahead

The road can be challenging for 2WD vehicles. Drive slowly and carefully!

🅿️ Parking Pass Needed

A National Park parking pass is required. Get yours in Cades Cove or other park locations.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse

Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse

Main building

Step into a preserved 1882 one-room schoolhouse, also used as a church. See old desks and a chalkboard.

Metcalf Bottoms Creek

Metcalf Bottoms Creek

Behind the schoolhouse

A picturesque creek perfect for photos, offering a serene natural backdrop to the historic site.

Historic Cemetery

Historic Cemetery

Beside the parking area

Explore a small, quiet cemetery offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the area.

Walker Sisters Cabin

Walker Sisters Cabin

Along the trail

Discover the cabin of five independent sisters who lived off the land, offering a poignant historical perspective.

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Planning Your Visit

Road Conditions & Parking

The road to Little Greenbrier School can be rough, especially for two-wheel drive vehicles. Parking is in a gravel lot, and a National Park parking pass is required. Consider using restrooms before you arrive, as facilities are limited to a port-a-potty.

Hike or Drive? Embrace the Journey

While you can drive to the school, many visitors recommend the hike, especially if the road is closed. The trail offers beautiful scenery and a sense of stepping back in time, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Sunlight on creek
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@tiffinator7
4.2K likes • 74.4K views

🚗 Rough Road Ahead

The road can be challenging for 2WD vehicles. Drive slowly and carefully! Reddit

🅿️ Parking Pass Needed

A National Park parking pass is required. Get yours in Cades Cove or other park locations. Reddit

The Little Greenbrier School - Smokey Mountains Tn #fylpシviralシ #fyp #scary #fy #paranormaltiktok #tennessee #legend #hauntedtennessee #storytime #thebigfoots #legend #ghosts #ghostmode ##storytime #storytelling #ghoststory #spookyseason #spooky #Hiking #greatsmokymountains #greatsmokeymountainnationalpark
@thebigfoots
3.4K likes • 101.6K views
The Little greenbrier school trial is a great for kids any age.More information about it on my Instagram: peakadventure11
smokypeak
18 likes • 343 views

🚶‍♀️ Hike for the Experience

Even if the road is open, the hike is highly recommended for the views and atmosphere. Reddit

📸 Creek for Photos

The stream behind the schoolhouse is a beautiful spot for photography. Reddit

WILD + FREE group hike and activity!! Last Friday, we hiked up part of the Metcalf bottom trail to the Little Greenbrier school house, in the Smoky Mountains. We collected nature materials as we hiked to use in the creation of our “pumpkin fairy homes!” This activity is loved by ALL, the older kiddos, the youngest, and even the mommas got into the creative process! I can’t wait for our next meet u...
let.them.be.lions
12 likes • 225 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Rough Road Ahead

The road can be challenging for 2WD vehicles. Drive slowly and carefully! Reddit

🅿️ Parking Pass Needed

A National Park parking pass is required. Get yours in Cades Cove or other park locations. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike for the Experience

Even if the road is open, the hike is highly recommended for the views and atmosphere. Reddit

📸 Creek for Photos

The stream behind the schoolhouse is a beautiful spot for photography. Reddit

🚽 Limited Facilities

Restrooms are scarce; a port-a-potty is available. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🕰️ Step Back in Time

Experience Appalachian history and simpler times at this preserved site. Instagram

👻 Haunted History?

Some visitors report a spooky atmosphere and paranormal activity. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(368 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Little Greenbrier School & Metcalf Bottoms for its historical significance and serene natural beauty, offering a genuine step back in time. While the rough road and limited facilities are noted drawbacks, the rewarding hike and picturesque creek make it a highly recommended destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

"This was our first visit after hearing about it for years. The grounds were well maintained.
The road coming in was a little rough and some two wheel drive vehicles might have a hard time during certain times of the year.
I recommend finding a rest room before coming. There is a port-a-potty that was - well it is a port-a-potty.
The parking is a gravel parking lot. Remember, this is part of the national park so you will need a parking pass. You can get them in Cades Cove. There are probably other places to get them as well. That is where we got ours."

Gary Garland

"Highly recommended, even if the road is closed, the hike is so worth it! Such a neat, beautiful and serene place that gives you a sense of going back in time. The schoolhouse, cemetery, and the old bridge that crosses the creek (behind the school), all of it is a must see!"

Becky B

"If you like history and the outdoors, you will enjoy this. There is a little stream behind the school house that is great for pictures. There is also a small cemetery beside the parking area. In addition, there are a couple short trails that you can hike from this spot."

Christi Markwood

What People Like

Historic preservation
Scenic creek
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Rough road access
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Little Greenbrier School is accessible via a gravel road off the main park road. The road can be rough, especially after rain, and may be challenging for two-wheel drive vehicles. Many visitors opt to hike the trail to the schoolhouse, which is a scenic and rewarding experience. TikTokReddit

The road's accessibility can vary depending on weather conditions and park maintenance. It's advisable to check with the National Park Service for current road status. If closed, the hike is a popular alternative. Reddit

There is a gravel parking lot available at the schoolhouse. Remember that a National Park parking pass is required for all vehicles within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Reddit

Yes, Metcalf Bottoms is a picnic area accessible by car, and the trail to Little Greenbrier School starts from here. The road leading to the schoolhouse itself can be more challenging. Instagram

The Walker Sisters Cabin is located along the Metcalf Bottoms to Little Brier Gap trail, making it a stop on the hike to or from the Little Greenbrier School. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no specific ticket required to visit Little Greenbrier School. However, a National Park parking pass is mandatory for your vehicle within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Reddit

The schoolhouse is a historic site and is generally accessible during park hours. Special historical presentations may occur on occasion, but it's not a regularly staffed attraction with set hours. Reddit

As of recent updates, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not have an entrance fee. However, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the park. Reddit

The schoolhouse and surrounding trails are generally accessible year-round, weather permitting. Road conditions can impact access during winter months. Reddit

While there aren't typically formal guided tours, historical information is often available on-site. Occasionally, historical interpreters may be present for presentations. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the preserved one-room schoolhouse with its original desks and chalkboard, visit the adjacent historic cemetery, and enjoy the scenic Metcalf Bottoms creek. The Walker Sisters Cabin is also nearby along the trail. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a great spot for families! Kids can enjoy the nature walk, playing in the creek, and learning about history in a tangible way. The hike is generally manageable for most ages. Instagram+1

Facilities are very limited. There is a port-a-potty on site, but it's recommended to use restrooms before arriving at the location. Reddit

The main trail to the schoolhouse is relatively easy, and there are also short hiking trails branching off from the schoolhouse area, including the path to the Walker Sisters Cabin. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The historic schoolhouse, the charming creek, the cemetery, and the surrounding natural beauty offer numerous picturesque opportunities. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Little Greenbrier School is a historic site within the national park, and there are no dining facilities directly on-site. You'll need to pack a picnic or plan to eat before or after your visit in nearby towns like Gatlinburg or Townsend. Reddit

Yes, Metcalf Bottoms is a designated picnic area with tables and grills, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal before or after exploring the schoolhouse. Instagram

Cades Cove itself does not have dining facilities. Food options are available in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Townsend, which are the main gateway towns to the park. Reddit

It is highly recommended to bring your own food, snacks, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike or spend an extended period exploring the area, as amenities are scarce. Reddit

The closest grocery stores will be in the gateway towns like Townsend or Gatlinburg. It's best to stock up on supplies before heading into the national park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the schoolhouse, the interior with its desks and chalkboard, the creek behind the building, and the historic cemetery all offer great photographic opportunities. The surrounding forest also provides beautiful natural backdrops. InstagramReddit

Mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows. The creek area can be particularly lovely with dappled sunlight filtering through the trees. Reddit

Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park, for safety and privacy reasons. Please check the official NPS website for current regulations. Instagram

Yes, visitors are generally permitted to photograph the interior of the schoolhouse. Be respectful of the historic nature of the site. Reddit

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is ideal. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the schoolhouse and landscapes. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing the creek. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Little Greenbrier School and Metcalf Bottoms are fantastic for families! The hike to the schoolhouse is generally manageable for children, and the creek behind the building is perfect for supervised splashing and playing. Instagram+1 Kids can imagine what school was like in a one-room schoolhouse, and the historic cemetery and Walker Sisters Cabin add layers of historical discovery. Instagram Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited, and make sure to have your National Park parking pass ready. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Hikers

For those who love history and the outdoors, this spot is a dream. The well-preserved Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse and the nearby Walker Sisters Cabin offer deep dives into Appalachian life. Instagram+1 The hike to the schoolhouse is a rewarding experience, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the Smokies while connecting with the past. Reddit Consider exploring the various short trails branching off from the schoolhouse for a more extensive hike. Reddit

📸 Photographers

This location is a photographer's paradise, offering a blend of history and natural beauty. Capture the rustic charm of the schoolhouse, the serene flow of Metcalf Bottoms creek, and the atmospheric cemetery. InstagramReddit The surrounding forest provides excellent opportunities for landscape and nature shots, especially during the golden hours of morning and late afternoon. Reddit

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

The Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse has garnered a reputation for being haunted, with several paranormal investigations documented. TikTokInstagram+1 Visitors have reported eerie feelings and unexplained phenomena. If you're drawn to ghost stories and the unexplained, this historic site offers a potentially thrilling dimension to your visit. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Appalachian History

The Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse, established in 1882, stands as a testament to a bygone era of education in the Appalachian Mountains. Built with hand-hewn yellow poplar timbers, it served not only as a place of learning but also as a community church. Some students would travel up to nine miles daily to attend classes, highlighting the dedication to education in these remote communities. Instagram+1 The school operated until 1936, leaving behind a rich legacy of the region's past. Visiting this site offers a tangible connection to the lives and struggles of those who inhabited these mountains generations ago. Instagram

Adjacent to the schoolhouse, you'll find a historic cemetery, offering a quiet space for reflection on the lives of the early settlers. Nearby, the Walker Sisters Cabin provides further insight into the self-sufficient lifestyle of Appalachian families. These sisters famously refused to leave their ancestral land when the park was established, embodying the independent spirit of the region. Instagram Exploring these interconnected historical sites provides a comprehensive understanding of life in the Smokies during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Instagram

Many visitors describe the experience as feeling like they've 'stepped back in time.' Reddit The preserved nature of the schoolhouse, with its old desks and chalkboard, allows for an immersive historical experience. The surrounding natural beauty of the Metcalf Bottoms creek and the lush forest further enhances the serene and evocative atmosphere of the area. Reddit It's a place where history and nature converge, offering a unique and memorable visit for those interested in the heritage of the Smoky Mountains. TikTok

The Journey to Little Greenbrier

Reaching the Little Greenbrier School involves a journey that many find as memorable as the destination itself. The primary access is via a gravel road that can be quite rough, particularly after inclement weather. This road is often a topic of discussion among visitors, with some advising caution for two-wheel drive vehicles. Reddit However, for many, the challenge of the road is part of the adventure, and the drive offers scenic views of the surrounding forest. TikTok

An increasingly popular alternative, especially if the road is closed or for those seeking a more immersive experience, is to hike to the schoolhouse. The trail, often starting from the Metcalf Bottoms picnic area, is well-regarded for its beauty and the sense of discovery it provides. Reddit This hike allows visitors to appreciate the natural environment of the Smoky Mountains at a slower pace and truly connect with the historical context of the school's remote location. Instagram The effort is consistently described as 'so worth it' by those who undertake it. Reddit

Parking is available in a gravel lot at the schoolhouse. It's crucial to remember that a National Park parking pass is required for any vehicle parked within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These passes can typically be obtained at visitor centers or other designated locations within the park, such as Cades Cove. Reddit Planning ahead for parking and road conditions will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit to this historic gem. Reddit

Beyond the Schoolhouse: Exploring the Area

While the Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse is the main draw, the surrounding area offers additional historical and natural points of interest that enhance the visitor experience. The Metcalf Bottoms creek, flowing just behind the school, is a highlight for many. Its gentle waters and picturesque setting make it an ideal spot for photography and a peaceful place to relax. Reddit The sound of the water adds to the tranquil ambiance of the historic site. Instagram

For those interested in local history and folklore, the Walker Sisters Cabin is a must-visit. Located along the trail, this preserved cabin tells the story of five resilient sisters who maintained their independence and their land within the burgeoning national park. Instagram Exploring the cabin offers a poignant look into the self-sufficient lifestyle that was once common in these mountains. Instagram Some visitors also mention a sense of the supernatural or a 'spooky' atmosphere around the schoolhouse, with some paranormal investigations having taken place there. TikTokInstagram+1

These elements combined—the historic school, the natural beauty of the creek, the compelling story of the Walker Sisters, and the whispers of local legends—create a rich tapestry of experiences that extend beyond a simple visit to a single building. Instagram+1

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