Hike to the Little Greenbrier School and Walker Homesite

Hike 3.4 miles (5.5 km) roundtrip from the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area.

NPS Photo

Overview

Hike 3.4 miles (5.5 km) roundtrip from the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park through hardwood forest to see remnants of past Smokies residents including stonework; the historic, one-room Little Greenbrier School; and the preserved homesite of the Walker family.

This hike begins on the Metcalf Bottoms Trail, located just beyond the bridge that connects Wears Cove Gap Road to the picnic area. leading to the historic Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse. The path is a well-packed dirt trail that gently climbs through the forest. Alternatively, the schoolhouse can also be accessed via a seasonally open gravel road off Wears Cove Gap Road. From the schoolhouse, the route continues uphill along a wide gravel roadbed, which is part of the Little Brier Gap Trail. This section leads to the preserved 19th-century homestead of the Walker family. Originally built in the 1840s, the cabin features two spacious rooms with fireplaces and a charming front porch. The site also includes a spring house and a corn crib, offering a glimpse into Appalachian mountain life of the past.

Length

3.4 miles (5.5 km) roundtrip

Parking & Trailhead

After parking at the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area, walk across the small bridge north of the picnic area to find the Metcalf Bottoms Trailhead. Don't forget your parking tag.

Nearest Restroom

Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area

Alternate Hikes

• John Oliver Cabin: 0.3 miles (0.5 km) roundtrip
• Little River, Cucumber Gap, Jakes Creek Loop: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip

• Noah Bud Ogle Homesite: ~0.7 miles (1.1 km) roundtrip loop

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the only two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

Some steep sections plus occasional roots and rocks.