Located between Banner Elk and Boone, Valle Crucis received its name from Levi Silliman Ives, an Episcopal Missionary in the 1840. Translating from Latin for “Vale of the Cross”, the missionary chose the name based on the formation created by three streams joining that resembles an archbishop’s cross. Today, Valle Crucis is known as the home for the Original Mast General Store, a now popular outdoor clothing and equipment franchise known for it’s old timey mountain store appeal. This small mountain community is partially within the Pisgah National Forest, which allows the town to remain commercially undeveloped and unincorporated. However, with the Dutch Creek, Watauga River, Tester Mountain and Valle Mountain, makes Valle Crucis a great nature adventure! Visit our Area Attractions Blog and Events calendar to learn more of the exciting adventures in Valle Crucis, North Carolina