W hen you adventure outside in Rockbridge County, it's easy to understand the phrase " the great outdoors, " as so much of ours is unspoiled, and indeed great. Launch your explorations by tackling our most visible landmark: House Mountain. House Mountain is two mountains with a " saddle " in the middle. Most hikers choose to conquer Big House, a steep climb with a bit of scrambling toward the top and an inspiring westward view at its peak. A northeast look toward the Shenandoah Valley is afforded from the end of the Little House trail. Together the 968 acres are House Mountain Reserve and can be accessed from the trailhead on Route 643. The James River is a mighty Chesapeake Bay tributary, but before it reaches the bay it inherits the waters of the Maury River, the only Virginia river to both begin and end within one county. The Maury and the James both hold the Virginia Scenic Rivers designation and portions of both comprise the Upper James River Water Trail. Both rivers offer serene stretches for lazy tubing as well as tumultuous rapids for experienced whitewater enthusiasts. LEXINGTONVIRGINIA.COM 19http://www.LEXINGTONVIRGINIA.COM