Metcalf Bottoms is one of the most enchanting parts of the Great Smoky Mountains, and it’s easy to see why. Mountain views and a babbling brook make Metcalf Bottoms a perfect place to picnic, splash around, and take in natural beauty. This little outdoor destination is a great place for all ages to enjoy and is perfect for the whole family.
Where is Metcalf Bottoms?
Metcalf Bottoms is easy to access from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Metcalf Bottoms is located off Wear Cove Gap Road, within the boundaries of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you’re coming from Pigeon Forge, take Wears Valley Road about 10.8 miles south to Line Springs Road, then follow Line Springs Road and Wear Cove Gap Roar about 3 miles to the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area. You’ll find plenty of parking, with an overflow lot available.
Picnics at Metcalf Bottoms
Looking for a perfect place to picnic? Metcalf Bottoms is an ideal destination for al fresco dining. There are two picnic spots in the area, both nestled along the Little River. You’ll find 122 picnic sites, many with charcoal grills. You’ll also find a picnic pavilion, offering covered seating for up to 77 guests. Grills, the pavilion, and waterfront tables aren’t the only amenities that make Metcalf Bottoms a great picnic site.
Picnic SpotsAccessible restrooms with flush toilets make it easy when nature calls. There are also fountains available to get a drink or fill a water bottle. Past picnickers have wonderful things to say about the location. It’s known as a “peaceful stop by the river” and “the perfect place to stop on your way into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”
Weddings At Metcalf Bottoms
Metcalf Bottoms offers 2 of the 52 different locations that you can get married in the national park. The picnic pavilion is available as a wedding venue from January through May 25, September 8-30, and the months of November and December. You can also have the ceremony performed by the Little River.
GSMNP Weddings
Splash in the Little River
The Little River runs right along Metcalf Bottoms. The river’s banks are a perfect place to cast off a fishing line, put in an inner tube, or even splash around and play in the water. The Little River is a great example of a pristine mountain stream. The water is clear and cool. You’ll see fish swim by as you enjoy the gently flowing currents.
Swimming Holes
Little Greenbrier School
There’s even more to enjoy! Another thing you can do here is take a short hike to Little Greenbrier School. This family-friendly walk is just 1.2 miles round trip. You’ll find features like footbridges, old homesites, and a school more than a century old long the way. Little Greenbrier School was originally built as a cabin in the 1880s. It was used as a school and church until the 1930s. It still stands today with blackboards and desks that once served the community.
You’ll find the trailhead right around the picnic area on Wear Cove Gap Road. There are some uphill climbs and downhill descents along the trail, but it is still an easy walk for most. The trail can be enjoyed year-round.
Walker Sisters Cabin
Another great kid friendly hike nearby is on Little Greenbrier Trail to Walker Sisters Cabin, home of the only family who chose not to sell their land to the national park when it was first established. You can find the spur trail to the cabin if you head north on Little Brier Gap Trail.
Walker Sisters CabinMetcalf Bottoms is just one destination to enjoy in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Get back to nature and explore more of the Smokies. Browse Pigeon Forge outdoor activities and start planning your family’s next mountain escape!
