Upper Falls

Big Canoe is an exclusive private residential community and mountain resort nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains between Jasper and Dawsonville, about an hour north of downtown Atlanta. Covering more than 8,000 acres of forests, ridges, streams, and lakes, the community was carefully designed to preserve its natural beauty while offering residents and guests an impressive collection of recreational amenities. The development features three championship nine-hole golf courses that wind through the mountain landscape, a modern clubhouse, tennis and pickleball courts, a wellness and fitness center, swimming pools, and more than 20 miles of hiking and jeep trails. Big Canoe is also known for its abundant wildlife, with white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, foxes, and a wide variety of birds commonly seen throughout the community. One of its most popular gathering places is Lake Disharoon, a picturesque mountain lake complete with a sandy beach, marina, canoe and kayak rentals, paddleboards, and excellent opportunities for swimming and fishing during the warmer months. Although Big Canoe is a private, gated community, it has become a popular vacation destination, offering visitors a peaceful mountain retreat with resort-style accommodations surrounded by the scenic beauty of the southern Appalachians.

This family-friendly hike begins at the Mountain Mint Trailhead and follows a wide, well-maintained old jeep road as it descends approximately 0.4 miles through a quiet hardwood forest to Upper Falls, one of several waterfalls found within Big Canoe. The gradual downhill walk makes for an easy and enjoyable trip, with only a few gentle grades before reaching the falls. Upper Falls is a picturesque two-tiered cascade where clear mountain water tumbles over exposed rock ledges into two small pools that have been carved into the underlying stone over countless years. The surrounding rock formations and dense forest create a peaceful setting that is especially beautiful after periods of heavy rain, when the waterfall flows at its strongest. At the base of the falls, visitors will find picnic tables and even a trash receptacle, making it a convenient spot to stop for a snack, relax, or enjoy the cool mist from the cascading water. While the return hike is entirely uphill, the short distance and moderate grade make it suitable for families with young children and hikers of nearly all abilities. The combination of an easy trail, attractive waterfall, and tranquil forest setting makes this one of the most popular short hikes within the Big Canoe community.