Big Joel Falls is one of two significant waterfalls located near the Enota Mountain Retreat in Hiawassee, the other being Gurley Creek Falls. Located on Joel Creek, Big Joel Falls is about 120 feet high and is quite the impressive sight, cascading down a series of cliffs in the lush forest. Although the waterfall technically lies in the Chattahoochee National Forest, it lies right by the Enota property boundary and is most often accessed from the retreat. A 0.2-mile trail leads from the Enota Lodge to the falls. Enota has been friendly to public visitors, who have typically been allowed to visit the waterfall for a fee. 

The trail ends at a hillside overlook showing Big Joel Falls in its full majesty. A steep scramble path descends to the bottom of the falls, but only the lower 40 feet are visible here.

For detailed directions, see page 209 in Mark Ozboyd's "Waterfalls of Georgia" guidebook.