Valle Crucis NC Day Trip Things to Do
Valle Crucis NC Day Trip Things to Do
Even though the "Valle" is only 10 minutes from Boone off North Carolina Highway 105, spending the day in Valle Crucis is a step back in time. The community developed in the 1800's and centered around the Watauga River, lush farmland and mountain shelter, a church, general store and little schoolhouse. All of these community fixtures can still be visited today! Here is our itinerary for a Valle Crucis NC Day Trip Things to Do:
Lunch at Valle Crucis Community Park
Order lunch to-go from Pearls Kitchen, located a couple minutes from the park (open daily 9-3), and have your lunch at the park along the banks of the Watauga River or sit at one of many picnic tables. This non-profit park features one of the best playgrounds in the NC High Country and clean restrooms open year-round.
Order from Pearls Kitchen HERE
Find park details HERE
The Original Mast General Store
The original Mast General Store can be found around the corner from the park. The store was built 1883 and is on the National Historic Registry. The store features an old post office, original posters and coffee for 5 cents! While you are there, see if the Little Red School House behind the store is open. The School House sometimes features items and sample sales.
Hike to Crab Orchard Falls
Just 5 minutes from Mast General Store up Hwy 194 is the parking lot for the Falls. Put this address into your GPS: 263 Skiles Way, Banner Elk, NC 28604.
The well maintained trail is an easy 1.3 miles and an elevation gain of 324 feet. The Falls make for great photos and have lots of places to climb around and play in the water (but there is no swimming hole).
Dutch Creek Ice Cream
After your hike, drive less than 5 minutes to Dutch Creek Ice Cream, located behind the Mast Store Annex, and relax by the creek. Some days you will find area musicians playing there and local kids hanging from the trees. *Open Memorial Day - October
River Birch Nordic Sauna
Hiking not your thing? We have the perfect activity! River Birch Nordic Sauna is located in the heart of Valle Crucis with wide open field views beside the Watauga River. This traditional wood-fired heat sauna is complemented by an invigorating outdoor cold water bucket shower.
Book HERE
