Blog

The 2019 Ford Ranger has been re-imagined and is now better than ever with the technology, design, and performance that you desire at a price you can afford. Chestatee Ford is proud to be able to offer you this newly designed truck with its many best in class features. Read on and discover why the 2019 Ford Ranger is the perfect mid-size pickup. Technology You Crave The 2019 Ford Ranger has many upgraded technology features that consumers have been craving, including the Ford Co-Pilot 360, the voice-activated SYNC 3, and the FordPass Connect. more Drive the highways with confidence and crowded roads with ease with the Ford Co-Pilot 360 offering driver assist technology such as BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Rear-View Camera to help you navigate the world around you. The SYNC 3 system includes voice-activated communications and entertainment. It is easy to use and consists of an 8-inch center stack touchscreen and a user-friendly interface that allows you to stay connected any time you are in your truck. Finally, the FordPass Connect keeps you connected with LTE Wi-Fi capability. Design Features Inside and Out The design features of the 2019 Ford Ranger are no longer isolated to the just interior; the exterior has just as much to offer now. Starting with a twin dome hood and rounded wheel arches to show off its new off-road design, the exterior also features a newly designed Ford grille and a variety of performance packages that allow you to customize the way your new Ranger will look. Moving inside the 2019 Ford Ranger continues to emphasize function and style while adding the essential element of comfort with supportive and firm seating accommodating up to five in the spacious and versatile four-door SuperCrew. Controls and instruments are easy to operate and read thanks to the optional dual LCD instrument cluster productivity touch screens providing an array of useful operating information and the available 8-inch center touchscreen. Finally, the available Ford navigational and connectivity features, premium Bang & Olufsen audio performance, and driver-assist technologies create an experience everyone will love. Power and Performance The power and performance of the 2019 Ford Ranger are phenomenal, starting with the electronic four-wheel drive easy shift option that allows you to change from two-wheel to four-wheel drive with a simple turn of the dial. Drive comfortably regardless of where you may be thanks to the Terrain Management System, providing four selectable drive modes including normal, grass, gravel, and snow to choose from. Best-In-Class Gas Torque There is nothing like raw torque when tackling the demands of off-road terrains. The 2019 Ranger has you covered thanks to the 2.3L EcoBoost engine delivering 310 pound-feet of torque and 270 horsepower while the 10-speed SelectShift optimizes gear progressions offering quick, smooth shifting up and down. With more technology than ever and the power you have come to expect from Ford, the 2019 Ford Ranger indeed may be the perfect mid-size pick-up truck around. Stop into Chestatee Ford to schedule a test drive and experience it for yourself. White Ranger via Flickr by truckhardware under the use of CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

They say to experience a place you need to experience its food truly, and Georgia is no different. Whether you're a local to the area or just passing through, taking time to enjoy one of the favorite comfort foods around is a must.  Here is our list of the four best restaurants serving chicken and dumplings in Dahlonega. Wagon Wheel The Wagon Wheel with its friendly staff and homey decor is a perfect place to stop in for a bite to eat whether out with the family or just grabbing a bite with friends.  In addition to chicken and dumplings, they offer an excellent selection of breakfast favorites, hoagies, sandwiches, clubs, wraps, and dinner entrees. more Located at 1108 North Grove Street in Dahlonega, Georgia, the Wagon Wheel is open on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Crimson Moon In addition to their delicious chicken and dumpling soup, The Crimson Moon offers an electric "New South" menu with several gluten-free and vegan options available, with the majority of their items "Moon Made." Enjoy brunch daily with a variety of drinking and dining atmospheres both upstairs and downstairs. Visit their cozy Coffee House for one of their hand-crafted organic/shade-grown fair trade coffee drinks or step back in time to the Half Moon Saloon for a variety of hand-crafted cocktails, wine, and beer. Located on the historic public square of Dahlonega in the second oldest commercial structure, The Crimson Moon is open Monday 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday - Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Yahoola Creek Grill Whether a local foodie or an out-of-town guest looking to take in all that Dahlonega has to offer, Yahoola Creek Grill provides a dining experience you won't forget. Featuring a made-from-scratch menu using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, their dishes strike the perfect balance between contemporary and classic Southern cuisine. Along with delicious chicken and dumplings, they offer lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch menus; the Yahoola Creek Grill is an ideal location for weddings, family gatherings, or other large events where you can experience beautiful mountain views from any of their versatile dining areas. Located at 1810 S. Chestatee Street, The Yahoola Creek Grill is open Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Wednesday - Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Reid's Cafe Known for their friendly staff and excellent service, Reid's Cafe offers breakfast, lunch, children's, and dessert menus featuring chicken and dumplings, cooked sausages, and four sizes of Ribeye steaks. Located at 5337 Thompson Bridge Rd in Gainesville, Reid's Cafe is open Monday - Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. With so many great restaurants available in the Dahlonega area, there is always one to visit and experience something new. Mmm...chicken dumplins via Flickr by jeffreyw under the use of CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from original

When most people hear about the gold rush, they think about California. However, Georgia had its gold rush that you can relive in Dahlonega. Check the Rivers Even though the gold mines have closed, you should still look for gold in nearby rivers. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy as you search nearby waterways. One of the best places to check is the Etowah River in Cherokee County. As you explore this area, do not forget to check the waterways that flow into it. more Another fun river to check for gold is the Chattahoochee. If you are interested in this river, explore it through White and Lumpkin Counties. Bring your gold pan and don't forget to check Duke's Creek. The creek runs near the town of Sautee. Before you explore this area, you may want to rent a metal detector as the banks have the potential of holding a variety of treasures. Camp Near the Old Gold Mines Another great way to enjoy the outdoors and explore the history of gold is camping. There are a variety of campgrounds located near the old mines. Each gives you an opportunity to bring home gold while spending time with friends and family. If you enjoy gold panning along the Etowah River, bring your camping gear and stay overnight. The Etowah River Campground has room for tents and RVs. When you make your reservation, you can choose between a river site or something more secluded. Beyond panning for gold, you can also go trout fishing in the river. Another fun campground near Cleveland is the Gold'n Gem Grubbin' Campground. This location adjoins a strip mining operation that allows campers to pay for the chance to look for gold. There is also a Gem Shack on site where you can create custom items. The campground can handle both tents and RVs. Visit the Gold Museum If you are in the mood to explore history, but the weather is keeping you inside don't worry. Stay in Dahlonega and visit the Gold Museum.  The museum is open seven days a week. You can visit from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. On Sunday they are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is in an old Lumpkin County courthouse. It features exhibits like a large gold nugget that weighs more than five ounces. You can also see a hydraulic cannon that broke gold loose from the mountainside. If you are into old coins, check out a set of rare coins from the 1800s when the town was home to a U.S. mint branch. There are also educational films that explain the gold history of the area. Before you leave, stop by the gift shop to bring home a piece of your journey. When you finish with the museum, explore the courthouse that houses it before you leave the area. Bring your friends and family to enjoy the experience with you. These adventures would also be a great way to teach your children the history of the gold industry in Georgia. Don't forget to dress appropriately especially when heading to the mines. Gold-bornite-quartz hydrothermal vein via Flickr by James St. John under the use of CC-BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Are you looking for a new golf course to enjoy as the weather warms up? The Dahlonega, Georgia, area is full of courses for all ability levels. Chestatee Golf Club The Chestatee Golf Club is located on GA-400 in Dawsonville. The mountain-like terrain is designed to fit in with the area. This challenging course was designed by Denis Griffiths. Some of the features included in this 18-hole course include water holes, and a championship feel to the links. During your time on the links, keep in mind par is 71. more Once you finish with your game, enjoy the clubhouse and a mouthwatering menu from the Heron Grille. If you want to work on your game between rounds, there is a practice green and bunker on the property. There is also an extensive driving range for you to enjoy at this semi-private club. Non-members are allowed to use the practice range for a $25 fee that gives you unlimited practice range balls. The rates to play the course change depending on your age and the time of year. Mossy Creek Golf Course When you make the trip to Cleveland, Georgia, you can enjoy the 18-hole Mossy Creek Golf Course. The public course opened in 1965 as Eagle Greens at Skitt Mountain. The course is perfect for rookies, but can also challenge more experienced golfers. At its longest tees, the course is more than 6,000 feet in length. It is a par-70 course. The onsite pro shop has everything you need to enjoy a day on the links. You can rent clubs from the pro shop as well as set up lessons. After your round, enjoy a delicious meal at The Grill @ Mossy Creek. It is located above the pro shop and is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Achasta Stay in Dahlonega and enjoy a Jack Nicklaus signature course when you play at Achasta. While you are playing the course, keep an eye on the Chestatee River. It winds through the course and can impact the result of a majority of the holes. It is a par-72 course with a par 36 on each set of nine holes. It is a semi-private club that allows the general public to play the course.  The greens are G2 bent grass. The fairways and trees are Bermuda grass. If you want to warm up before your next round, there is a practice facility on site. This all-grass area includes both a putting and chipping green. After your game, enjoy a meal at the Achasta Grille. The grille is inside the clubhouse. It offers outdoor seating for warmer temperatures. There are also two indoor dining spaces, the main dining room, and the Nicklaus room. Achasta is open six days a week; it closes on Monday for maintenance. Explore each of these public courses provided to you by Chestatee Ford on a different weekend. If you enjoy a trip to one of these courses, bring friends for your return game. Urbanowicz_Krzysztof_GOLF via Flickr by Chris Urbanowicz Under the use of CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from original

The foothills of North Georgia are the perfect environment for wineries to produce award-winning vintages. Known as the Heart of Georgia Wine Country, Dahlonega, Georgia, is home to five wineries and 12 wine tasting rooms. Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery Founded in 2006, Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery in Dahlonega produces award-winning, hand-crafted red and white wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Norton, and Petit Manseng. Take a seat in the tasting room and spend the afternoon sampling both dry and semi-sweet wines. Live entertainment is also offered throughout the year, so be sure to check the vineyard's calendar for upcoming events. more Spend the weekend at the winery, and stay at the 1820s cabin-in-the-wines on site. The log cabin features modern amenities and is the perfect spot to sip on your favorite wine while enjoying views of the vineyards and donkeys, dogs, and chickens playing in the pasture. The tasting room is open Monday through Thursday from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Fridays from 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Frogtown Cellars Situated on 57 acres at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains, Frogtown Cellars is Georgia's most award-winning winery. With a unique terrain made of rolling hills and steep elevation changes, Frogtown Cellars is a tri-level gravity flow winery. The winery features more than 22,000 grape vines with 25 different types of grapes. When you visit, you'll have a chance to enjoy a variety of delicious red and white vintages under the Frogtown and Thirteenth Colony brand names. The winery also includes a bistro where you can munch on tasty cheese and charcuterie platters, pizza, paninis, and more while sipping on your wine. The winery is open Monday through Friday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Kaya Vineyard and Winery Sitting atop a ridge at 1,600 feet and offering spectacular panoramic views of the mountains is Kaya's Vineyard and Winery. The winery features Italian and American varieties of wines made from grapes grown exclusively on site. Enjoy the view out of the 12-foot windows in the tasting room, or sit outside on the 2,000-square-foot covered deck and enjoy the fresh air. Take a guided tour to learn more about the vineyards, or sit back and enjoy live music. The vineyard and tasting room is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12:30  p.m. to 5 p.m. Three Sisters Vineyards Three Sisters Vineyards produces 100-percent Georgia-grown estate wine and makes 3,500 to 4,000 cases of each vintage. Varieties include Cabernet Franc, Cab Franc-Merlot, and Merlot, among others. The winery sits on 184 acres and offers a laid back atmosphere where you can sip on their vintages while browsing the collection of Georgia and Southern folk art. Enjoy the cool breeze while relaxing with a glass on their Crush Pad Deck or Rock Wall Patio. The winery is open Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. There's no need to travel far to enjoy bold and beautiful wines, as Chestatee Ford gives you Dahlonega's wineries that have wines to suit every palate. Image via Flickr by smallkaa / under use of CC BY-ND 2.0 /Cropped from original

Mother Nature often supplies a beautiful backdrop for a mountain town, and the area around Dahlonega is no exception. Home to the tallest waterfall in Georgia, North Georgia has it all. Bring your camera to capture the falls in action. Amicalola Falls The Amicalola Falls are located in Amicalola Falls State Park. You can reach the highest falls east of the Mississippi River via an eight-mile long trail. After you are done taking pictures along the falls, you don't have to leave the park. Instead, set up camp and enjoy nature's beauty at various locations throughout the park. There are 24 campsites available that can fit six people each. ADA-accessible and RV back-in or pull-through campsites are also available. more The park is open from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. As you prepare for your trip, remember that all cars require a Georgia State Park pass that costs $5. Anna Ruby Falls The Anna Ruby Falls features two waterfalls formed from the Curtis and York Creeks. The falls are located in the Chattahoochee National Forest near Helen, Georgia. This is a beautiful hike for anyone no matter what your hiking experience because the trail is paved. Along with your camera, pack a water bottle and some light snacks as it is a nine-mile hike round-trip. Before you set off on your hike, stop by the visitor's center for a map, so you can enjoy the trail as much as you do the falls. The path winds through the forest, giving you beautiful views to enjoy on your way to and from the falls. The trail is stroller- and pet-friendly, so the entire family can enjoy a day in nature.  There are two viewing platforms just past the trailhead for the Smith Trail. Helton Creek Falls The Helton Creek Falls features two separate waterfalls, one upper and one lower, that are also located in the Chattahoochee National Forest near Helen, Georgia. You can see both these and the Anna Ruby waterfalls in the same day. This is a natural trail that is less than a mile long and is a perfect way to introduce children to the forest. It is a short, but easy-to-moderate hike so make sure everyone is ready before setting out. The trail leading to the falls begins just south of Vogel State Park. It offers a variety of heights giving you a chance to get some stunning pictures. If you want to reach the lower falls, take the short side trail, which leads you to a staircase that takes you to the falls. The upper falls are the larger of the two falls. You can see them from a viewing platform that is just three-tenths of a mile up the trail. Before you set out on your adventure, visit us at Chestatee Ford to find the perfect vehicle to fit your adventure. We have a wide variety of rugged vehicles that can seat as many people as you want to accompany you. Plan your trip today! Image by Lee Edwin Coursey via Flickr | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

Looking for the perfect location to celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends? Pack up your lawn chairs and blankets, and get ready to mark the anniversary of our nation's Declaration of Independence with all the festivities in Dahlonega, the site of the first major U.S. gold rush. Only an hour's drive north of Atlanta, for a full day of exciting family-fun activities and events for everyone, come on up. Firecracker 5K and Fun Run 5K starts at 8 a.m. Fun Run starts at 9 a.m. Start the festivities early with the 7th Annual Firecracker 5K and Fun Run. Take a scenic tour of historic downtown Dahlonega through winding roads and up gently sloping hills. The run starts in the downtown square in front of the Dahlonega Gold Museum located inside the oldest courthouse in Georgia. Race pass scenic Hancock Park, through shady, tree-lined neighborhood streets, and by many historic buildings. Cross the finish line just in time to enjoy the rest of our city's Independence Day celebration. Patriotic Ceremony Starts at 9:30 a.m. The patriotic city of Dahlonega is proud of our deep military heritage. Join us and show your support for America's freedom with this annual ritual. The gala kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with the singing of the national anthem, the presentation of Colors by Dahlonega's Junior ROTC, and a quick address from the keynote speaker. more Dahlonega Car Show 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Don't miss the Dahlonega Car Club Car Show. Travel back in time with over 150 fully restored classics, and experience the beauty and vintage styling of some of the finest cars in north Georgia. The cars are on display in the parking lot at Lumpkin's County Library. A $20 entrance fee for all cars showcased at the event benefits the county's DARE Program and local fire department. Proceeds purchase toys to help comfort young fire victims. Fourth of July Parade Begins at 11 a.m. The Dahlonega's Fourth of July parade is always a crowd-pleaser. Don't miss the patriotic-themed floats and entertainers as they cruise through town. The procession starts at Memorial Drive and circles through the city's historic square. After the spectacle, grab a bite to eat at one of Dahlonega's 18 restaurants and consider a nap in your hotel room before the big show. Dahlonega offers guests an excellent selection of charming lodging choices, such as a bed and breakfast like the Mountain Top Lodge or a family-friendly hotel like The Quality Inn. Whether you stay for a night or a week, discover restful accommodations and real southern hospitality that suits every fancy and budget. Grand Fireworks Display Starts at Dark Wrap up the day's festivities with Dahlonega's Fourth of July family fireworks celebration on the drill field at the University of North Georgia. Known for having one of the best fireworks displays in the state, bring your lawn chairs and blankets and spread out to watch the grand finale. This year's family-fun Independence Day celebration is bigger and better than ever before. Head up to Dahlonega and spend the day with us. Photo by ThoroughlyReviewed via Flickr licensed under CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

When you need a peaceful setting to reconnect with nature, head up to Amicalola State Park, just an hour and a half drive north of Atlanta. It's the perfect recipe for a great escape that everyone will enjoy. Experience a Georgia adventure at Amicalola, and plan to spend the day or spend the night — and plan to play. Exciting Activities Discover an almost endless list of day and evening activities at Amicalola Falls State Park. Take a guided fitness hike or sit in on the GoPro camera class and expertly capture all your memories at the Park. Get your heart pumping with a thrilling tree-top zip line, then test your skill at 3-D archery. Grab the kids and go on a GPS scavenger hunt, then spend the evening gathered around the campfire toasting marshmallows. Learn to endure the wilderness using outdoor skills picked up at Survivalist Camp, and get up close and personal with native birds of prey such as owls, falcons, and hawks. more The Park Amicalola Park is 829 beautiful acres of outdoor mountain adventures just waiting to happen. It's no surprise Amicalola is the most popular park in the area. Named for the 729-foot falls, Amicalola, or Tumbling Waters as known to the Cherokee nation, is the tallest cascading waterfall this side of the Mississippi River. Wind through the park on miles of trails, including the 8-mile path to Springer Mountain that connects with the world-renowned Appalachian Trail. Fish for trout at the base of the trail or go geocaching. The park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. To park you must have a $5 Georgia State Park Pass. Your leashed, four-legged pal is welcome too. Accommodations in Amicalola Amicalola State Park's lodge is more than just a place to lay your head — it's a true highland retreat. Experience a welcoming "Bed and Breakfast" feel with cozy charm and spectacular views from every room. Modern conveniences abound such as suites, loft rooms for the kids, and Wi-Fi. For those who want a bit more seclusion, discover unique cabins nestled in the mountain surrounding the lodge. Designed for a romantic weekend or for families traveling with kids, there are one, two, and three bedroom cabins equipped with a full kitchen that offer heat, air conditioning, and satellite TV. Guests that want a real outdoor adventure are invited to pitch their tent in the park's primitive camping sites near the waterfall. RV hookups are also available, and the sites are roomy enough to spread out. The Maple Restaurant Delight in contemporary buffet-style dining at the Maple Restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Delight in homemade, traditional American and classic Southern favorites, such as surf and turf, and order an adult beverage off the drink menu. They offer an excellent selection of wine, beer, and spirits. Dinner usually ranges from $15.99 to $19.99, depending on the carte du jour. Time your meal with a sunset view. You won't be disappointed. Don't miss a chance to make wonderful, lasting memories when you spend the day and night at Amicalola State Park. Photo by IIIP Photo Archive via Flickr licensed under CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original