Relive the Georgia Gold Rush with these Three Experiences

April 18, 2019 · 3 min read

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. 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

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Aug 04, 2023 in Community

Drive on Down: 3 Free Things to Do Near Dahlonega, GA

Dahlonega, GA may be a small city, but it is rich in history and features plenty of attractions. Some fun things to do around the city, including the underground gold mine tours and Dahlonega Gold Museum, cost money to enjoy. However, there are several free things to do in the area, including the following three. 1. Check Out Lake Zwerner Trail and Pulloff If you need a little more serenity in your life, we strongly recommend checking out Lake Zwerner Trail and Pulloff at 1680 Morrison Moore Parkway East. The view of the Lake Zwerner Dam alone is worth driving to check out, and you may feel more peaceful afterward. If you need to walk off some pent-up frustration, lace up your hiking boots or running shoes, and walk the 3.2-mile trail around the lake. more Once you're done taking in the view, getting in a good workout, or sketching the landscape, you can enjoy a homemade lunch at a picnic table with a stunning view of the lake. Additionally, Lake Zwerner Trail and Pulloff features a boat ramp and dock and fishing access. 2. Paddle Down the Yahoola Creek Reservoir Another free way to have fun in Dahlonega is to hook your canoe trailer up to your 2023 Ford F-150 XL and paddle down the Yahoola Creek Reservoir at 1330 Morrison Moore Parkway East. Just bear in mind that you will need to go to Lake Zwerner if you want to go boating. Since the Yahoola Creek Reservoir is for drinking water, you can't swim in it or use any gas-powered watercraft. Also, fishing is generally prohibited. 3. Explore Hancock Park You can also explore Hancock Park at 55 North Meaders Street if you're looking for something free to do to pass the time. This beautiful park offers plenty of green space to enjoy, and kids of all ages love the 2,800-square-foot Dahlonega Gold Mine All-Abilities Playground. This playground features climbing equipment and swings that are made for all children, regardless of their physical abilities, to enjoy. Another interesting feature of this park is the 1875 Chestatee River Diving Bell. This bell was designed for collecting gold from the bed of the Chestatee River, and it sank along with its boat mysteriously on October 18, 1876. We strongly recommend seeing this bell in person and reading about its mysterious past if you have an interest in gold mining. There are plenty of free places worth visiting in Dahlonega, including Lake Zwerner Trail and Pulloff, Hancock Park, and Yahoola Creek Reservoir. Visit us today at Chestatee Ford to schedule a test drive if you're considering upgrading your current vehicle.

Jul 21, 2023 in Community

3 Amazing Spots for Taking Photos in Driving Distance of Dahlonega, GA

Nestled among the stunning Appalachian Mountains lies a hidden gem for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Dahlonega, GA is a charming town that offers a number of photo spots both in the city limits and in the surrounding areas. From cascading waterfalls and lush forests to rolling hills and scenic overlooks, Dahlonega provides an endless array of photo-worthy locations that are waiting to be explored. 1. Red Oak Lavender Farm Just a short 15-minute drive east of Dahlonega at 2882 Red Oak Flats Road, the Red Oak Lavender Farm is a picturesque destination for anyone wanting to photograph the beauty and tranquility of lavender fields. The lavender is usually in full bloom until June, offering a vibrant purple spectacle that is a feast for the eyes and an amazing backdrop or focal point for your images. more As an additional perk, the Farm also offers a taste treat for visitors in the form of lavender flavored ice cream. This cold creamy snack is available throughout July, but even if you decide to visit during the off-season, you'll be able to explore and enjoy the aromatic ambience of the rolling hills and charm of the area while also enjoying an expansive lavender-focused gift shop. 2. Chestatee Wildlife Preserve Just a stone's throw from the Lavender Farm previously mentioned, the Chestatee Wildlife Preserve at 469 Old Dahlonega Hwy offers a wonderful opportunity to photograph and capture videos of some truly incredible animals. Flash and Sissi are two lovable sloths and one of the main attractions, which are sure to steal your heart and provide endless adorable moments for your camera lens. In addition to the sloths, there is also a diverse range of other animals, including tigers, zebras, camels, bears, and parrots. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of these magnificent creatures, there is no shortage of subjects to photograph and admire. 3. Woody Gap Located a short 25-minute drive north of Dahlonega and nestled in the captivating northern Georgia landscape, Woody Gap is a photographer's paradise. Situated at an impressive 3,160 feet above sea level, Woody Gap offers breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning Yahoola Valley below. If you're into closer subjects or macrophotography, the trailhead is open year-round and provides ample opportunities to capture the beauty of the surrounding nature in every season up close and personal. This beautiful area will leave a lasting impression on any photographer fortunate enough to visit. Whether you prefer the ruggedness of an off-road SUV or the comfort of a sporty sedan, imagine the thrill of driving your chosen vehicle along scenic roads with the freedom to explore and photograph the breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. When you're ready to embark on these unforgettable journeys, visit us at Chestatee Ford to find the perfect vehicle that will accompany you on your photographic adventures.

Jul 07, 2023 in Community

Drive on Over: 3 Favorite Local Bookstores Near Dahlonega, GA

There's nothing quite like relaxing with a good book and a hot mug of coffee. That's why we love dropping by the local bookstores here in Dahlonega, GA to wander through the towering shelves and peruse the pages of countless volumes. We're about to share a couple of stores the whole family can enjoy, so load the kids into your 2023 Ford Edge and head right over! 1. Bear Book Market Located at 85 East Main Street, Bear Book Market is far more than just a place you go to shop. This family-friendly store regularly hosts delightful events like book signings and open readings. The sense of community here is palpable, and the book selection is simply superb. With high-quality collections of both new and used books, this little gem of a store is both fun and affordable. more Pick out a novel or two to enjoy on a rainy day, and don't forget to have a chat with the owners and staff! At Bear Book Market, the atmosphere is enchanting, and the people are kind. 2. University of North Georgia Campus Store If you're on the prowl for new, up-to-date academic volumes or textbooks, the UNG store is the place for you! You can find it in Chestatee Building on 110 South Cestatee Street. If you're not looking for education material, don't worry because you can find a wide variety of fiction here as well. We love the UNG store because you can shop for books while also shopping for other school supplies, including apparel, writing utensils, and dorm essentials. Even if you aren't a student, don't write off this store just yet! After all, learning doesn't stop after college. If anything, it becomes even more worthwhile. 3. Southern Finds Thrift Store There is something very special about loving a book that someone else has loved before you. That's why we enjoy second-hand shopping for novels at the Southern Finds Thrift Store, which is located at 20 Memorial Drive. When you thrift these new and gently used books, know that you are supporting a great cause. One hundred percent of proceeds from sales at this store directly benefit victims of domestic violence. In addition to books, feel free to purchase some stylish and affordable clothing items. And if you have a volume that you're ready to part ways with, donate it. A happy reader will find it and thank you. If you love books, I'm sure you'll find these stores just as charming as we do. Swing by one or two of our recommendations, then come visit us at Chestatee Ford.

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Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, license, processing and/or documentation fees of $699. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.