The Big Easy: Part Lewis and Clark, part laid-back lazing, the Big River invites the exploration of a wide tree-lined estuary with resident river otters, sea lions, and kingfishers. The water vehicle of choice is a handcrafted, wooden outrigger canoe that’s as smooth and steady as it is swift and fun. Because the river is tidal, you want to paddle upstream with the incoming tide and downstream with the outgoing tide. Rent your canoe at Catch a Canoe & Bicycles, Too!, where the good folks will let you know the best tide-tuned times to paddle out and back. However near or far you choose to go, the canoe’s outrigger and push-pedal rudder will make steering a breeze.

TIP: If you’d prefer to pedal than paddle, rent a bike and cruise the wide dirt Haul Road on the north side of the Big River. Catch a Canoe & Bicycles, Too! has a map and tips on other rides in the area.

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