Big Canoe in Georgia is an ideal place to rent vacation homes. Located in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains, this private residential community offers a variety of adventures for its visitors. Add the exclusive amenities inside and nearby attractions, and there won’t be a dull moment during your stay!
If you’re unsure about what to do in Big Canoe, GA, use this guide as a reference for your vacation itinerary. That said, check out ten of the most thrilling and relaxing activities in Big Canoe.
Did You Know? Big Canoe is so exclusive that you can’t get into its gates without a pass. To obtain this pass, you should be either a registered guest of a Big Canoe resident or a vacationer renting a property.
If you’re looking for Big Canoe vacation rentals, check out Mountain Vista Rentals for expanded choices of cabins and lodges.
Amenities Inside Big Canoe
1. Play Golf at the 27-Hole Championship Mountain Course
Full access to Big Canoe’s golf course is a huge perk when you’re a guest in this 7000+ acre gated community. With its 27-hole championship mountain course set in front of the picturesque view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you will find leisure and relaxation at the same time.
When you get to the course, you’ll find three nine-hole golf courses (Creek, Choctaw, and Cherokee). There are also two putting areas and a chipping area, plus a driving range. You can bring your own golf club set and play the entire day.
Don’t have the proper golf set and equipment? There’s nothing to worry about as the Pro Shop is just around the corner, complete with performance gear, clothing items, and the best equipment.
Check out the Big Canoe Golf or some of the nearby golf courses in the Blue Ridge Mountains!
2. Spend the Day at the Wildcat Pool and Recreation Area
Bring your kids for a fun day of swimming and playing at the Wildcat Recreation Area! It’s located near Big Canoe’s north gate entrance. The kiddie and lap pool are easily accessible, along with the children’s playground and diamond dog park.
Meet Big Canoe residents in the pavilion and outdoor field for social clubs, special events, and regular Big Canoe events. Then enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you play basketball, soccer, and bocce (a.k.a. Italian lawn bowling).
If you’re up for a trip in North Georgia’s finest hiking trails, the Wildcat Recreation Area is also a convenient starting point.
Check out the Big Canoe Wildcat Pool and Recreation Area
3.   Reward Yourself With Self-Care in Big Canoe’s Wellness Center
If you’re on vacation in Big Canoe, pampering yourself should be a priority! Visit the cutting-edge Wellness Center for a day of training and relaxation.
Their gym equipment and weights at the fitness center cater to everyone! But if you’re not interested in weightlifting, check out their aerobics room. You’ll find professionally led group fitness classes.Â
Play pickleball and racquetball on one of their two indoor tennis courts. Then take a dip in their swimming pool treated with saline water.
Finally, cap off your day in the sauna or whirlpool hot tubs. or get a professional massage and let all your worries fade away for a spell.
Check out Big Canoe’s Wellness Center
4. Go Fishing and Boating at Big Canoe Marina
The Lake Petit Marina offers an excellent fishing spot! There variety includes rainbow trout, catfish, crappie, and bass. You can get a fishing permit and buy some fishing equipment and bait in the Marina.
But if you want to buy gear beforehand, check out these fishing poles and tackle boxes over on Amazon.
Plus, don’t forget to check out the pontoon boat rentals! You can go boating and get a breathtaking view of the lake!
Did You Know? Big Canoe has three artificial lakes: Lake Petit, Lake Disharoon, and Lake Sconti.
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For rental properties near Lake Petit, book your reservations at the Petit Crest Villas in Marble Hill.
5. Drive on the Big Canoe Jeep Trails at Nature Valley Park
If you’re up for more challenging outdoor activities, prepare for an adrenaline rush when you drive a four-wheeler on the Jeep trails.
The large rocks on the track (and occasional pothole) allow for a thrilling experience. Simultaneously, enjoy the natural beauty of the lush valleys at Nature Valley Park.
You can also take a hike if you’re not in the mood for driving!
Nature Valley offers different levels of difficulty for hikers of all skill levels! New hikers can enjoy the shorter and lower slope trails. Whereas more experienced hikers can choose difficult paths for an extra challenge.
6.   Go Hiking on the Emery Creek Trail and Choctaw Trails
There is no shortage of hiking trails in North Georgia, and many are accessible from Big Canoe. The Emery Creek Trail and Choctaw Trail are two worth checking out!
When taking the Emery Creek trail, you will get to visit the five waterfalls almost adjacent to one another. You can reach each of them through a short walk, but the trail can be difficult, so you must be prepared.
On the other hand, take the Choctaw trails to experience a more serene hike. When taking the routes, you’ll see plenty of vegetation, a moss-covered creek, and the ruins of an old bridge,
Pro Tip: If you’re new to hiking, get yourself this sturdy adjustable hiking pole, ergonomically tested for long trails.
Check out Big Canoe Trails and Hiking
7. Dine at the Big Canoe Clubhouse
Whether you’re after a fine dining experience or a rustic casual one, you don’t have to go off-site when you’re at the Big Canoe Clubhouse.
Enjoy regionally crafted beers and a variety of bourbons when you visit the Black Bear Pub. Try local dishes and world-class meals from the clubhouse menus.
And, if you simply want to sip wine or drink cocktails at sunset while overlooking Lake Sconti, visit the Veranda.
Check out the Big Canoe Clubhouse
Local Attractions Near Big Canoe
8.   Reconnect With Nature at Amicalola Falls State Park
Explore the Amicalola Falls State Park for both scenic views and so much more. Other activities include:
- hiking
- ziplining
- scavenger hunts
- 3-D archery
- survivalist camping
The park is about a 20-minute drive from Big Canoe. Amicalola Falls State Park sits inside the Chattahoochee National Forest and is only 8 miles away from the Appalachian Trail.
It is home to the tallest waterfall in Georgia, Amicalola Falls. You’ll also see lots of flora and fauna, bringing joy to all nature lovers.
Looking for a place to rent near the Amicalola falls? Read our guide on Cabins Near Waterfalls in Georgia.
And when trekking challenging trails like thse, I prefer to use a hydration backpack like this one.
Check out Amicalola Falls State Park
9. Explore the Gibbs Gardens
Amplify your bond with nature when you visit the Gibbs Gardens. It’s home to the 1 million daffodils and other blooming, vibrantly-colored flora. It’s only a 15-minute drive from Big Canoe.
The property owner, Jim Gibbs, founded this local attraction designed with 16 gardens of flowering and ornamental plants.
It also has water features like streams, falls, and pools. You can take Instagram-worthy pictures near the gardens and bridges or just sit around the picnic area.
10. Enjoy Wine Tasting at the Fainting Goat Vineyards and Winery
If you want a splash of romance on your vacation, check out a wine tasting at the Fainting Goat Vineyards and Winery! You’ll find a well-curated selection of wines here.
It’s only a 26-minute drive from Big Canoe. Their fine selection of wines includes full-bodied reds, fruity whites, and sweet blends.
Have a picnic in the vines or take time to learn from their knowledgeable staff about the wine-making process. You could also arrange a lovely date when you book their farm-to-table sunset supper, with live music performed by local artists.
Check out the Fainting Goat Vineyards and Winery.
There are quite a few other wineries worth checking out in North Georgia, too!
Summary
Only one hour from Atlanta, Big Canoe is a highly sought-after place for both vacations and living fulltime!
It’s a perfect place to be with nature, bond with your family, and create lasting memories. Rent a vacation property inside to enjoy Big Canoe amenities and experience some of the many local attractions.
