Big Canoe Property Owners Association, Inc.

Length: A hike of 1.7 miles from Lake Disharoon to the Lower Falls makes this the longest natural trail in Big Canoe. Don't let that discourage you because this trail can be accessed at several different points.

Difficulty: Moderate - Most of this trail is easy to hike, but there are some hills you will traverse.

Features: Following the course of Disharoon Creek, this trail exposes you to the wide variety of flora and fauna inhabiting Big Canoe. All through the warmer months, but especially in April, May and June, you will see wild flowers, shrubs and trees in bloom. You may also see the occasional fawn and hear the call of young birds still in the nest.

However, don't think all the fun is in the Spring. Hanging your toes in the cool waters of Disharoon Creek in the Summer or seeing nature cloaked in the color of the changing season in the Fall is another great time to enjoy this trail. Many of us don't hike in the Winter because it is too cold. But once you see the icicles that form where water cascades over the rocks, you may decide that this season is worth your efforts too.

The Grand Finale of this trail is the Lower Falls. If you haven't spent a few minutes sitting on the huge rock in front of the Lower Falls just absorbing the wonder of it all, then you haven't experienced Big Canoe. Bring your camera for this one. It is a great place to get your family's picture in front of a cascade of water. Take time to observe the plant life around the falls, especially the mosses and ferns growing under and in the water.

One caution, moss makes the rocks along the edges slick, so don't try to get too close.

Getting There: There are several ways to access the Lower Falls Trail:

From the Fitness Center, access the trail to the left of the indoor tennis court. Continue along this trail past Lake Disharoon and join the Lower Falls Trail there.

Wilderness Parkway: Parking is available between the intersections of Valley View Drive and Wild Ginger. Look for the signs. Access the trail just as the parking area road enters the parking area. You can go back over the road toward Lake Disharoon or to the right toward the Lower Falls.

Parking Lot on Yellow Root: Use the access trail from the parking lot to reach the Jeep Trail. You can reach the Lower Falls Trail by using the Cabin Loop Trail, or you can walk to the right on the Jeep Trail until it crosses the Lower Falls Trail.