Vale is an unincorporated community in Lincoln County, North Carolina, United States. Parts of Vale extend to western Catawba County It lies at an elevation of 1028 feet. The area of Vale is nearly all rural, with farming the predominant industry. By car, Vale is about 10 minutes from Cherryville, 15 minutes from Lincolnton, 30 minutes from Hickory and Morganton, and 55 minutes from Charlotte. It is one hour from the Appalachian mountains and around four hours from the coast.