In the tiny town of Valle Crucis, 10 miles west of Boone, Mast General Store, 3565 Hwy. 194 S. (tel. 866/367-6278 or 828/963-6511; www.mastgeneralstore.com), is arguably the most famous store in Appalachia. Dating from 1883, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its plank floors are worn to a smooth sheen, and on cold mountain mornings, a potbellied stove is still fired up. From overalls to brogans, red ribbons to calico patterns, the store has a wide assortment of sturdy clothing, shoes, and boots -- all the outdoor gear you'll need to become a mountain man or mountain mama. You'll also find old-time salves, wind-up toys, regional music, rock candy, and peanut brittle on sale. Hours are Monday to Saturday 7am to 6:30pm and Sunday 11am to 6pm. If you don't want to drive out to the hamlet of Valle Crucis, you'll find similar merchandise at the outlet in Boone, Old Boone Mercantile, 630 E. King St. (tel. 828/262-0000), in business since 1883. Hours are Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 11am to 6pm.
