Bear Paw Cabin is a Luxury 4 Bedroom All Suites cabin that sleeps up to 12.
When people picture the North Georgia mountains, they often imagine quiet trails, rolling hills, and cozy cabins — and Big Canoe, GA delivers all that and more. This private gated community, located just an hour north of Atlanta, is home to over 8,000 acres of preserved wilderness, lakes, golf courses, and resort-style amenities.
Visitors often ask: “What are the best things to do in Big Canoe, GA?” The short answer: a lot. From hiking waterfalls and paddling across crystal-clear lakes, to golfing, dining, and enjoying mountain views from a luxury cabin, Big Canoe has something for everyone.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay, Bear Paw Cabin is your best choice. Nestled inside the Big Canoe gates, this rental combines comfort, modern luxury, and direct access to all the activities the area is famous for.
Let’s explore the top things to do in Big Canoe and why Bear Paw Cabin makes the ultimate home base for your adventure.
1. Explore Big Canoe’s Hiking Trails
Big Canoe boasts over 20 miles of private hiking trails, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Waterfall Trails: Visit Falls Trail, which takes you to cascading waterfalls that look like something from a postcard.
- Scenic Overlooks: The Indian Rocks Park trail offers panoramic mountain views.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot deer, wild turkeys, and native birds along the trails.
Why it’s special: The trails are exclusive to residents and guests staying inside Big Canoe, so you’ll enjoy less crowded, peaceful hikes.
Pro Tip: After a day of hiking, head back to Bear Paw Cabin, kick off your boots, and enjoy a glass of wine on the deck overlooking the mountains.
2. Spend Time on the Lakes
Big Canoe is home to three private lakes — Lake Petit, Lake Sconti, and Lake Disharoon — each offering its own fun.
- Lake Petit: The largest lake, perfect for pontoon boat rentals, fishing, or kayaking.
- Lake Disharoon: Home to the Beach Club, where you’ll find sandy shores, swimming areas, and water activities like paddle boarding.
- Lake Sconti: Smaller and quieter, great for fishing.
Fishing Highlight: Lake Petit is stocked with rainbow trout and bass — a dream for anglers.
Pro Tip: Bear Paw Cabin’s location makes it easy to get to all three lakes quickly, so you can spend mornings fishing and afternoons lounging at the beach club.
3. Play a Round of Golf
If golf is your game, Big Canoe offers a championship-level 27-hole golf course designed by Joe Lee.
- Three 9-Hole Layouts: Lake, Mountain, and Creek courses provide variety and challenge.
- Breathtaking Views: Fairways wind through forests, lakes, and mountain scenery.
- Award-Winning: Big Canoe has been recognized as one of the top residential courses in Georgia.
Why golfers love it: The blend of professional design and natural beauty makes every round unforgettable.
Pro Tip: After golfing, Bear Paw Cabin is the perfect spot to relax. Fire up the grill on the deck for a cookout while watching the sunset.
4. Enjoy Tennis and Pickleball
Big Canoe has ten tennis courts and dedicated pickleball courts, making it a hotspot for racket sports lovers.
- Indoor & Outdoor Courts: Play year-round.
- Pickleball Popularity: A growing sport that’s easy for beginners to pick up.
- Lessons Available: The Racquet Club offers clinics and private instruction.
Pro Tip: Bear Paw Cabin is a short drive from the Racquet Club, so you can easily play a morning match before heading back for brunch.
5. Relax at the Beach Club & Pools
Yes, Big Canoe has its own Beach Club complete with sandy shores, water slides, and a lake-fed swimming area. Families especially love it in summer.
- Outdoor Pool: Great for lounging.
- Beach Area: Paddle boards, canoes, and sandy play areas.
- Seasonal Fun: Open primarily in warm months.
Pro Tip: Bear Paw Cabin gives you the perfect base to keep your days flexible — hit the Beach Club for fun, then return to your private retreat for peace and quiet.
6. Discover Nearby Wineries & Breweries
While Big Canoe itself offers plenty, the surrounding North Georgia region is known for wineries and breweries.
- Fainting Goat Vineyards: A local favorite just 20 minutes away.
- Talking Rock Brewery: Perfect for craft beer lovers.
- Dahlonega Wine Trail: Explore a variety of wineries within an hour’s drive.
Pro Tip: Staying at Bear Paw Cabin means you can explore during the day and return to your private mountain getaway by evening.
7. Take Scenic Drives
The mountains surrounding Big Canoe are packed with scenic routes.
- Amicalola Falls State Park: Just 20 minutes away, home to Georgia’s tallest waterfall.
- Blue Ridge Parkway Access: Ideal for day trips.
- Fall Foliage Drives: Especially popular in October.
Pro Tip: Plan a day trip from Bear Paw Cabin with a scenic drive, a waterfall hike, and a return to your cabin’s cozy fireplace.
8. Dine at Big Canoe’s Clubhouse and Local Favorites
Inside Big Canoe, you’ll find The Clubhouse at Lake Sconti, which serves up delicious meals with golf course and lake views.
Nearby, towns like Jasper and Dawsonville offer southern comfort food, farm-to-table dining, and casual favorites.
Pro Tip: Bear Paw Cabin has a fully stocked modern kitchen, so you can enjoy both nights out and cozy home-cooked meals.
9. Family-Friendly Activities
Big Canoe is family-oriented, with plenty to keep kids busy:
- Playgrounds: Safe and fun spaces inside the gates.
- Nature Programs: Educational activities for kids.
- Beach Club Fun: Slides, paddleboards, and sandy play areas.
Pro Tip: Bear Paw Cabin is large enough for families, with comfortable living spaces and entertainment options for everyone.
10. Rest, Relax, and Reconnect
Sometimes the best activity in Big Canoe is doing nothing at all — just relaxing and enjoying the serenity.
- Watch the Sunrise: From your deck at Bear Paw Cabin.
- Soak in the Views: Every angle is breathtaking.
- Unplug & Recharge: Big Canoe is the perfect spot to escape city life.
Pro Tip: Bear Paw Cabin was designed for comfort, with plenty of cozy corners to curl up with a book, enjoy board games, or simply watch the mountain skies.
Why Bear Paw Cabin Is the Best Place to Stay
To truly enjoy all these activities, you’ll need a place that’s both comfortable and convenient — and that’s where Bear Paw Cabin shines.
Here’s what makes it the best choice:
- Prime Location: Right inside Big Canoe’s gates, close to lakes, trails, and amenities.
- Spacious & Modern: Enough room for families, couples, or groups.
- Mountain Views: Stunning from the deck.
- Resort Access: Guests enjoy community amenities like pools, lakes, and golf.
- Direct Booking: Save money and get the best perks by booking directly at Bear Paw Cabin.
Conclusion
So, what are the best things to do in Big Canoe, GA? From hiking trails and mountain lakes to golf, wineries, and family fun, there’s no shortage of adventure. Whether you want an active getaway or a peaceful retreat, Big Canoe delivers.
But the key to a perfect trip is where you stay — and Bear Paw Cabin gives you the best of both worlds: access to all the amenities plus a private, luxurious retreat.
Don’t wait — book your stay now at Bear Paw Cabin and start planning your Big Canoe adventure today.
Everything Big Canoe 