Three Top Mountain Game Lands

Named for its three prominent rock outcroppings, Three Top Mountain supports a variety of recreational opportunities, as well as rich ecology and abundant wildlife. 

Hunters can take advantage of a 3,100 acre game land, hikers find rugged trails and hidden waterfalls, and in the spring birders can enjoy nesting songbirds like the rose-breasted grosbeak.  BRC helped expand the game land and assisted the state in adding a new recreational access area.

Three Top is part of the amphibolite mountain group, an unusual mountain chain containing a calcium-rich rock rare in the southern Blue Ridge. This group includes Elk Knob, Snake Mountain, Mount Jefferson, and Bluff Mountain. 

Please be mindful of hunting seasons and regulations when visiting Game Lands. More information can be found through the NC Wildlife Resource Commission including a map of the game land.

Three Top Mountain is also home to a wealth of rare plants; please be mindful not to trample or disturb the natural areas.

+ Directions From Boone

Take Hwy 421 to the NC/TN border at the Trade post office. Turn east onto Hwy 67. Stay on Hwy 67/88 for 13.3 miles. Turn right onto Three Top Rd. Cross the bridge and turn left to stay on Three Top Rd. Go 0.5 miles and turn left onto Hidden Valley Rd. Parking access is available on Three Top Road and on Hidden Valley Road.

+ Directions from West Jefferson

Take NC-194 N, Buffalo Rd, Ben Bolen Rd and 3 Top Rd to Eller Rd in Creston for 12.6 mi; Follow Hidden Valley Rd and Oak Trail to Beechwood Cir for 1.6 mi