Pros & cons
PROS
- Short, family-friendly hike along a pretty creek
- Authentic 1880s log schoolhouse with desks and blackboard
- Historic cemetery beside the school
CONS
- No facilities at the schoolhouse itself
- Narrow access road is seasonal and can be nerve‑racking to drive
Overview
Often called the Metcalf Bottoms Schoolhouse, the Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse is a one‑room log school and church from 1881–1882 that tells the story of the Little Greenbrier community. It’s simple, photogenic, and a great payoff for an easy stroll from the Metcalf Bottoms picnic area.
Why It’s Special
Built from hewn tulip/yellow poplar logs on a stone foundation, this place doubles as a time capsule—complete with wooden desks and a blackboard inside. It served as both a school and a Primitive Baptist church until 1936 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Getting There
You’ve got two options:
- Hike: The sure bet year‑round is the Metcalf Bottoms Trail—about 1.5 miles roundtrip with gentle hills, creekside walking, and two log bridge crossings.
- Drive: In summer and fall, Little Greenbrier Road (narrow, single‑lane feel) typically opens and allows parking near the schoolhouse. It’s closed in winter.
What You’ll See
- Inside access is often open, so you can step in, sit at the benches, and get a feel for 19th‑century school days.
- A small historic cemetery sits beside the school; it’s a sobering window into local family histories.
- The setting includes a photogenic footbridge and a lively creek—bring a camera.
Make It a Half‑Day
From the schoolhouse, continue up to the Walker Sisters Place to round out the story of this mountain community. It’s a natural extension if you’re enjoying the hike and the history.
Practicalities
- There are no restrooms or water at the schoolhouse. Use the facilities and water at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area before or after your visit.
- Expect a narrow gravel drive if you choose to drive up; many people prefer the mellow hike instead.
Best Time to Visit
- Go on weekdays or early mornings for a quieter experience and softer light for photos.
- Spring through fall is ideal for greenery and creekside ambiance; summer/fall also gives you the option to drive the access road (when open).
Where it is
35.6833, -83.6394Tips for Metcalf Bottoms Schoolhouse
- 01If the road is closed or you dislike narrow gravel, take the easy hike from Metcalf Bottoms.
- 02Use the picnic area restrooms and fill bottles before starting—nothing at the schoolhouse.
- 03Watch your footing on the log bridges after rain; keep kids close by the creek.
- 04Be respectful inside the historic structure and at the adjacent cemetery.
- 05Have extra time? Continue on to the Walker Sisters Place for a fuller story.
Amenities
Near Metcalf Bottoms Schoolhouse
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayLittle Brier Gap TrailEasy creekside stroll to the Walker Sisters’ historic homestead.Easy · 2.6 mi · 1.3 hr
0.5 mi awayLittle Greenbrier SchoolHand-built 1880s schoolhouse with church roots, a short creekside walkParking
0.5 mi awayMetcalf Bottoms TrailShady, kid friendly stroll to an 1882 log schoolhouse and cemeteryEasy · 1.5 mi · 1 hr
0.6 mi awayMetcalf Bottoms Picnic AreaShady riverside picnic hub with grills, restrooms, and a short hikeRestroom · Parking
0.7 mi awaySallie Moore CemeteryHidden pioneer-era graves off a faint Metcalf Bottoms manway
0.8 mi awayLittle Greenbrier TrailQuiet ridge climb with history detours and a Laurel Falls connectionModerate · 8.6 mi · 0 min
0.9 mi awayWalker Sisters PlaceA preserved homestead telling the Walker Sisters’ story
1.6 mi awayMeigs Creek TrailCreek-hopping to a quiet cascade from The Sinks.Moderate · 7 mi · 3.5 hr
