Montvale, Virginia began as a stop along a natural pass in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where the gap offered one of the easiest crossings through the range. The railroad used this path, and before that, early travelers and traders followed it west. The Montvale community has 356 residents today, and while it is small, its history runs deep. Locust Level, a Federal and Greek Revival–style home built in 1824 by the Buford family, still stands on its original site. The nearby remains of their old mills show how early industry supported life here.

The legend of buried treasure connected to Locust Level adds a very different kind of story. Local tradition says that members of the Buford family may have hidden gold or silver on the property during times of unrest. No treasure has been found, but the idea continues to spark curiosity for those who visit the historic home.

Historical markers in the area reference events from the mid-1700s, including the escape of Mary Draper Ingles. Captured during a Shawnee raid in 1755, she was taken hundreds of miles into the Ohio Valley. In 1756, she escaped and made her way back through rough terrain, following rivers and mountain gaps. One of her known routes passed through what is now Montvale, using the natural crossing at Buford’s Gap. Her journey of more than 500 miles is remembered as one of the most remarkable survival stories of the colonial period.

Industry has taken different forms over time. For decades, Montvale had an oil terminal tied to the Colonial Pipeline. When it closed in 2018, the Montvale Center for Commerce continued to use the land for businesses and light industry. This development is part of how the area keeps jobs in the community and makes use of its location along U.S. Route 460.

For recreation, Montvale Park offers 129 acres of open space, ball fields, and a picnic shelter. Local teams practice here, and families use the walking trails that wind through the property. Not far away, the Blue Ridge Parkway provides access to mountain overlooks and hiking trails. Visitors often stop at scenic points to take in the view of the valley and its farms.

Beyond its parkland and scenic overlooks, Montvale has small businesses that reflect the needs and skills of its community. Roadside Market operates as both a Mobil gas station and convenience store, offering fuel, snacks, fresh produce, baked goods, and locally made crafts, with a reputation for clean facilities and friendly staff. Mountain View Champions is a local dog breeder specializing in Labrador Retrievers, known for responsible breeding practices and good communication with customers.

Food is simple and satisfying in Montvale. Dale’s Diner serves cheeseburgers with everything, chicken-fried steak, homemade meatloaf, apple walnut pound cake, and strawberry cake. Customers often point out how the menu reminds them of home cooking. Hunt Brothers Pizza operates inside a local market and serves whole pizzas or slices for people who need a quick meal before heading back on the road.

Just as these spots take care of local appetites, other services focus on maintaining the homes in Montvale. Star City Crawl Space provides crawl space repairs, moisture control, and insulation work, helping residents keep their properties in good condition year-round. Contact us today for more information.