About Little Greenbrier Trail
Little Greenbrier is a history walk near Metcalf Bottoms. The National Park Service lists a 3.4-mile round trip from Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area through hardwood forest to remnants of stonework, the historic one-room Little Greenbrier School and the preserved homesite of the Walker family. The Little Greenbrier Trail itself runs about 4.3 miles, from Wears Valley to the Laurel Falls Trail junction.
The hike
The trail from the picnic area climbs gently to the school, a log building with benches and a stone chimney. Walker family buildings are nearby. Beyond the school the trail climbs more steeply. The Laurel Falls Trail end of the route is currently closed.
When to go
Spring wildflowers and fall color are best. Summer is warm but shady.
Getting there
Metcalf Bottoms is off Little River Road about 10 miles west of Sugarlands Visitor Center. You need a parking tag for any stop over 15 minutes in the park. It costs $5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year, and federal passes such as America the Beautiful are not accepted. Buy it at a visitor center or on recreation.gov, and display the physical tag.
Know before you go
Pets are not allowed. Bring water. Keep to the trail around the historic buildings.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- Middle Prong Trail: an easy railroad-grade walk to Lynn Camp Prong Cascades
- West Prong Trail: a 5.4-mile round trip along the river
- Little River Trail: a gentle railroad grade through old Elkmont
Planning and safety
Allow about two miles per hour on rolling mountain trail, then add time for photos, snacks and rest. Start by mid-morning at the latest so you finish with daylight, and decide on a turnaround time before you leave the car.
Check conditions the morning you go. The park posts trail and road closures and cautions, and storms, ice and Hurricane Helene repairs can change access with little notice. Carry water, a rain layer and a map, keep a safe distance from bears and elk, and pack out everything you bring in.
Good to know
- How long is Little Greenbrier Trail?
- Little Greenbrier Trail is 4.3 miles one way, with about 1,800 feet of climbing. It is rated moderate.
- Are dogs allowed on this trail?
- No. Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, dogs are allowed only on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
- Do I need a parking tag to hike here?
- A Park It Forward parking tag ($5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year) is required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Entry is free, and federal passes such as America the Beautiful do not replace the tag.
