OUTSIDE! 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. Launch your explorations by tackling our most visible landmark: House Mountain, actually two mountains with a " saddle " in the middle. Reach the great views from House Mountain Reserve from the trailhead on Route 643. Before the James River reaches the Chesapeake 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. Both offer serene stretches for lazy tubing as well as tumultuous rapids for experienced whitewater enthusiasts. Goshen Pass is the place to enjoy the spring whitewater of the Maury River as well as summer swimming and sunbathing on the big boulders. Note that trail access from the swinging bridge requires a Wildlife Management Area permit. The Maury at Jordan's Point in downtown Lexington is calmer and has become a popular place for families to splash around with their little ones, and a launch point for paddleboarders and paddlers. LEXINGTONVIRGINIA.COM 17 STEVE SHIREShttp://www.LEXINGTONVIRGINIA.COM