House Mountain

The climb up to Big House Mountain is quite strenuous with few switchbacks. At the top of Big House Mountain you have two options. There is one trail that traverses the ridge to the cliffs. You’ll pass an old building on your left on your way to the cliffs, and then you’ll find the cliffs at the very northern end of the ridge. The cliffs are on your right as the trail ends and offer great views. The cliffs are over 100 feet high, so great caution should be taken when approaching the edge. The other trail near the top to the left offers outstanding views of Lexington to the South. There are no trails to the summit of Little House Mountain, but it is possible to climb to the summit where great views of Lexington can be found. Be sure to wear long pants or gators for this hike.

Directions

Take Nelson Street west past the W&L soccer fields (Nelson Street is also US 60) just over 2 miles. After passing Kelly’s Corner, turn left onto Route 641 (Jacktown Road) and drive for approximately 2.5 miles. Then turn right onto Route 643 (Saddle Ridge Road) which leads you to the House Mountain parking lot. Do not block any of the driveways to the homes around this parking lot.

The parking for the House Mountain Hike has been changed (Spring 2019). Parking is no longer permitted alongside the road and has been moved down to a new parking lot created just for the hikers/campers on the left side of the road. There is a new sign posted showing the new location. The hiking information kiosk has also been moved to the new location.

House Mountain Saddle

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Drive Time: 30 minutes
• Hike Time: 1 hour
• Distance: 1.5 miles
• Views: Wooded
• Elevation: 2,141’ to 2’784’

Trail Description

From the parking lot, The House Mountain Trail follows an old jeep trail to the saddle of Little House Mountain and Big House Mountain. Upon reaching the saddle there are several apple trees scattered about. There is a shelter just a hundred feet up the trail toward Big House Mountain on your right and several fire rings for camping can be found around the saddle. Be sure to bring your own water, because you won’t find much up here, especially if it hasn’t been raining.

Saddle to the Cliffs of Big House Mountain

• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Hike Time: 45 minutes
• Distance: 1 mile
• Views: Wild
• Elevation: 2,784’ to 3,645’