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Your car depends on a healthy transmission almost as much as it depends on the engine. It's essential to take good care of your gearbox with routine transmission service at your local Ford Dealer. Here are four good reasons you should never miss a servicing visit. Transmission Trouble Is Dangerous The fluid inside your transmission keeps everything lubricated so you can change gears smoothly and crisply. It also cleans metal shavings from the gears and helps to keep the temperature low. During a routine servicing visit, the technician will flush the transmission fluid, replace it with fresh fluid, and check for fluid leaks. They'll also remove and clean out debris from the fluid filter and pan. If no one does this for a prolonged period of time, your fluid will age and start to lose its function. Your gearbox and clutch will rapidly experience problems as parts rub against each other without proper lubrication. This is when gear slippage, stuck gears, and clutch drag can occur. These problems are dangerous while you're out on the road. more Transmission Repair Is Expensive When a transmission develops serious problems, it's one of the most expensive parts of your car to repair. Fixing a gearbox or replacing a clutch might cost you anything from $500 to $1,500. A neglected transmission can sometimes overheat and fail altogether. Replacing a failed transmission might cost as much as $3,000 or $4,000. The number one way to avoid these unnecessary expenses is with routine transmission inspections. Just as we go to the dentist every six months for a checkup, regular transmission checkups help to keep painful, costly problems at bay. Triple the Lifespan of Your Gearbox A well-kept transmission can last 200,000 or even 300,000 miles. This is often as long as the lifespan of a Ford car. But without regular servicing, a transmission might fail after just 100,000 miles or less. Maintain Your Vehicle's Warranty Many vehicle warranties cover the transmission as long as it's well-maintained. Have a look at your car's warranty to see how often it requires transmission servicing in order to remain valid. Having a fully valid warranty is always good for a driver's peace of mind. How Often To Have Servicing at Your Local Ford Dealer The recommended interval for transmission inspections depends on whether you drive a manual shift or an automatic shift. Manual shifts tend to need more frequent servicing visits: every 30,000 miles or so. Automatic shifts only need to be serviced every 60,000 miles. Check your owner's manual to see what Ford recommends for your particular model. Visit Chestatee Ford today to have your gearbox examined by courteous, experienced professionals. We're a trusted local dealership dedicated to quality service and family values.

Is the winter season getting to you? Are you in need of a breath of fresh, cold air? Well, look no further than Dahlonega, GA! This small mountain town offers a wide array of winter activities that you can drive to and enjoy. Whether it be snow tubing, skiing, or snowshoeing, Dahlonega has something for everyone. Not to mention, the town itself is full of charm and plenty of places to explore. Snow Tubing at Scaly Mountain If you happen to be in the Dahlonega area during the winter months and would like to try snow tubing, look no further than Scaly Mountain! With about five different tubing lanes, Scaly Mountain offers a great way for families and friends to enjoy a day outside together. more The tubing lanes are open from 10:45 am until 3:45 pm, and the cost is $12 per person. While you're there, be sure to check out the Scaly Mountain General Store, where you can get hot cocoa and snacks to keep you going throughout the day. You can find Scaly Mountain at 5 Scaly Mountain Road in Suches, Georgia. Skiing at Sky Valley Resort If snow tubing isn't really your style, why not try some downhill skiing at Sky Valley Resort? This resort offers both downhill and cross-country skiing and is open from the beginning of December through the beginning of February. The resort is open daily from 8:30 am until 8 pm, and there are a variety of lesson and rental options available. The resort also has a full cafe that serves hot beverages, snacks, and a full lunch menu. You can find Sky Valley Resort at 4361 Highway 19 SW, Hiawassee. Snowshoeing at Amicalola Falls State Park If you're looking for a more laid-back and scenic winter activity, consider snowshoeing at Amicalola Falls State Park. This park is about a 45-minute drive from Dahlonega and will lead you about 1.5 miles into the woods, where you can explore a small waterfall and a beautiful frozen creek. The trails are open year-round, but snowshoeing is only available during the winter months when the trails are covered in snow. The cost to snowshoe at the park is $3 per person, and you must be at least eight years old and capable of walking on your own power. You can find Amicalola Falls State Park at 101 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville. With a wide variety of activities to choose from, everyone in your group is sure to find something that interests them. Be sure to bundle up and enjoy the beautiful scenery the winter season offers! The new Ford Explorer Limited is the perfect car for outdoorsy people who love to explore. It's safe and reliable. Stop by Chestatee Ford to see our new and pre-owned Fords available.

Have you been having electrical problems with your car? If so, then it's time to take it to your Ford dealer for a checkup. Dealerships have the latest equipment and training to diagnose and repair electrical issues, so you can be sure that your car is in good hands. Plus, they can also provide you with tips on how to avoid future problems. Here are signs you should visit your local dealership for any electrical issues with your car. When to Visit Your Ford Dealer for Electrical Problems The Engine Takes Too Long To Start If your car takes a long time to start, or if it won't start at all, then it's likely an electrical issue. It could be that you left the lights on and drained the battery, or it could be that you have a bad alternator. If you're not sure what the problem is, it's best to take your car to your local dealership and have them take a look. Lights Flickering or Dimming If any of your lights are flickering or dimming inside the car cabin or on your headlights when you turn them on, it could be a sign of an electrical issue. The alternator is responsible for powering the electrical system in your car, and if it's not working properly, it can cause the lights to flicker or dim. more Car Stalls While Driving If your car stalls while you're driving, the most likely culprit is a bad connection in the electrical system. This can happen if the battery terminals are corroded or if the cables are loose. It can also be caused by a faulty starter motor or alternator. Your Stereo Malfunctions You may want to visit your dealership if your car stereo starts making strange noises or behaving erratically. Loose wires or a faulty connection can cause all sorts of problems, from static and interference to complete shutdown. Power Windows Are Slow Many modern cars are equipped with power windows, which can be a convenient feature when it comes to opening and closing the windows. However, if the power windows are slow, it could be an indication of an electrical issue. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as a loose connection. However, if the issue is more serious, it could be due to a problem with the electrical system. If the power windows are slow and you suspect there may be an electrical issue, it's important to have the car checked by a professional. If you're experiencing any of the above electrical issues with your car, it's time to visit your local dealership.  A dealership will be able to diagnose and fix the issue quickly and efficiently. Contact us at Chestatee Ford today to schedule a service with our expert technicians.

Are you worried about your car overheating? Find out how your local Ford dealer can help fix the issue. Is Your Car Overheating? If your engine temperature is exceeding about 220 degrees Fahrenheit, then your engine may be in trouble. The most obvious sign of an overheating engine is an upward tick on your temperature gauge. The Check Engine indicator could light up as well. You may also begin to see smoke and/or smell strange odors from underneath the hood. Immediate Steps to Take When you first notice signs, you may turn on the heater and leave it running for a few moments in order to relieve the cooling system. If the gauge fails to lower, though, you should pull over to the safest place as soon as possible. Call for roadside assistance and wait if you can. You should not attempt to drive again or tinker under the hood for 20 minutes at a minimum. Leave the engine off while you wait. more After this time has passed, and if the problem persists, you may attempt to put some coolant into the car. This step is only a temporary fix, though, because your next stop should be a service center. Chronically overheating engines, when left untreated, can lead to a hefty expense and a road hazard. Potential Causes A problem with the cooling system often leads to overheating. For one, parts of your radiator may be clogged, broken, or loose. As a result, coolant may not be circulating properly. Electric cooling fans and vacuums could experience a leak or malfunction. In addition, a broken thermostat could leave the engine unable to maintain a proper temperature. The coolant itself may be depleted or contaminated Other faulty parts may impact the engine's health too. These components include engine drive belts, head gaskets, ignition timing, water pump, engine control unit, and heater core.  Rest easier with a Ford EcoBoost engine, available on models from the classic Mustang to the Explorer SUV to the powerful F-150 pickup. Sophisticated technology and innovations like direct fuel injection and TI-VCT combine forces in a modern engine primed for performance and efficiency. Plus, it's backed by Ford Protect's Extended Service Plans. Ford Dealer Fixes As mentioned, an untreated overheating engine can become a major headache. It can decrease the performance, efficiency, and low emissions capability of your car. It can shorten your vehicle's overall lifespan, too. A botched do-it-yourself job could very well cause an even more costly problem. A trained technician can best assess your vehicle and pinpoint the specific problem that is plaguing it. Perhaps more importantly, a qualified pro will be better able to provide the repairs and maintenance needed to improve and maintain your ride. Trusted and highly skilled experts await. Contact the service department of Chestatee Ford to provide your engine and your auto with the very best TLC.

Sometimes, the morning is so long that you reach lunch wondering why the day isn't actually over yet. If it's been one of those days, you and your hardworking Ford F-150 deserve a break. Head over to one of these great lunch restaurants here in Dahlonega, GA and let someone else do the cooking. Three Lunch Restaurants Worth the Drive From Dahlonega, GA Foothill Grill This diner offers amazing food from 7am until 3pm every day but Monday. It's cozy, located in a nice spot, staffed by amazing people, and has great prices. Best of all, the food here is off the charts. This isn't just fast food: this is actually like going home for a home-cooked hot meal. You'll find them at 995 Morrison Moore Pkwy W. They serve breakfast all day, so if you're in the mood for breakfast food, you can always count on Foothill. But we also love their fresh-fried chicken livers or pickles, the Foothill cheesesteaks, and the "Gold Fingers," which are fresh local chicken breaded and fried to order. You can have these tossed in sauce, too. They also have daily specials. We love Wednesday's pork tenderloin with green beans. more Corner Kitchen At 270 E Main St, Corner Kitchen is another place for amazing home-cooked goodness. They are wonderful people to talk to, as well. The breakfast food here is also good, but it's the sandwiches that keep everyone coming back. They're open from 7am until 3pm Tuesday through Saturday. Their BLT is amazing, with thick, applewood-smoked bacon. The Mad Italian is also a classic. It's a fresh roll with Tuscan aioli, provolone, and balsamic roasted tomatoes, piled high with salami, pepperoni, and smoked ham. You'll also want to try their muffuletta, which is the most popular sandwich they offer. Capers on the Square If you're trying to eat a Mediterranean diet, this is the place for you. It's at 84 Public Square N, and it opens for lunch at 11am every day but Wednesday and Thursday. Service here is amazing, as is the flatbread, and the food is fresh and delicious. This is a largely Greek-influenced place, so think lamb, hummus, yogurt, etc. We love their tzatziki to start, and some of their grilled shrimp skewers are great with it. Try the Athena salad, which is greens, tomato, cucumber, falafel, red onion, and a sherry maple vinaigrette. They have several great sandwiches, but the best is got to be the Greek lamb burger. Once you've got a sandwich to tide you over, stop by Chestatee Ford and tell us your favorite spot for lunch. While you're here, check out our selection of great Fords or get service to keep your vehicle running right.

Fords are some of the most reliable vehicles out there, some lasting well over 200,000 miles. However, your Ford's braking system will not last as long, and you'll likely need to replace some of its parts before your vehicle's lifespan is up. Take your vehicle to your nearest Ford dealer if you need to get a new set of brake pads. How Long Do Ford Brake Pads Last? Ford braking pads generally last anywhere from 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Americans drive an average of 14,263 miles per year, which means that you'll need to replace your brake discs roughly every two to four years. Keep in mind that other factors can increase or decrease your brake system's lifespan, so you may need to get a replacement set outside of this time range. more Signs That Your Ford Brake Discs Need to Be Replaced Stopping Takes Longer If you notice that your car is taking longer to brake than it used to, it might be because the brake discs are worn out. Even a delay of just a few seconds could be a sign that it's time to get your braking system replaced. Breaking Veers Your Car to the Side Have you ever noticed that your car turns slightly to one side when you brake? If that's the case, then you're likely dealing with a braking system past its prime. This could be potentially dangerous as it may skid you into another lane, so make sure to replace your pads as soon as possible. Vibrating Pedal The brake pedal should remain smooth as you brake. Any vibrations may indicate that you're due for a new set of brake discs. Pay close attention to how your pedal feels next time you brake if you suspect your braking discs may need to be replaced. How to Make Your Ford Braking Pads Last Longer Brake Carefully Braking abruptly or too aggressively is one of the easiest ways to wear out your brake discs. You should aim for smooth and light brakes every time. A good way to avoid harsh stops is to always plan to leave plenty of space before you and the car in front of you when you stop. Keep Your Car Light Heavy cars can wear out your braking system more quickly. Consider minimizing how much weight you carry in your car by removing any unnecessary items that you may have been carrying around. Take Your Car to a Ford Dealer for Regular Maintenance Staying on top of your car's maintenance schedule is the best way to ensure that all of its parts are kept in the best shape possible. When you bring your car directly to a dealer for maintenance, you know that a team of Ford professionals will take care of your vehicle. Get in touch with Chestatee Ford if you suspect that your Ford brake discs are due for a replacement. Our team will be happy to replace or repair your car's braking system to keep you braking smoothly.

Are you looking for a place to take the family or a carload of friends to in your brand-new Ford Explorer? If so, there are a number of great tourist attractions in Dahlonega, GA, that are within driving distance and offer a great time. Dahlonega Gold Museum Our beautiful area experienced its own gold rush, and you can learn all about it when you visit this interesting museum at 1 Public Square, North. They are open every day from 9 AM until 4:45 PM. Sunday is the only exception as they don't open until 10 AM. Come here to learn about the gold rush that started 20 years before the one in California. There was so much gold here in the Dahlonega area that the US Mint built a branch here in 1838 and coined over $6 million in gold before it closed. The museum is located in the old county courthouse, which is itsself worth exploring. While you're here, you can also shop, sightsee, take field trips, and even pan for gold yourself. more Stoney J's You'll find Stoney J's at 1506 Stoney Point Rd in Cumming, and this is a place you can feel comfortable bringing the whole family for a nice day out. Just to be aware that they do not allow dogs on the property because there are so many farm animals. This is a family-owned and operated farm winery that will offer you a gourmet experience, as well as lots of things for children to see an experience while you're there. If you do enjoy their amazing wine, be sure to drink responsibly and never drink and drive. This is a first-come, first-served situation, so you can't make reservations, even for their gorgeous outdoor courtyard. They do amazing wood, fired pizza, however, and they do have a tasting room you can book for private events. They are open only on the weekends, however. On Friday, they are open from 4 PM to 8:30 PM. On Saturday, they are open from noon until 8 PM. On Sunday, their hours are 12:30 PM to 6 PM. Chestatee Wildlife Preserve Have a great day with the kids at 469 Old Dahlonega Hwy when you visit this wildlife preserve and petting zoo. They have lots of interesting and exotic species, particularly their gorgeous, white Siberian tigers, but also plenty of animals you can get up close to. They are open every day of the week from 10 AM until 4 PM, with the last entry being at 2:30pm. If you want to really enjoy the animals, we recommend getting there as early as possible. They feed the animals very close to 10 AM, and it's cooler, so the animals are out and about. Any animals that come to the fence you can feed; however, do so at your own risk. Visit all these great places in a great Ford. Come see us at Chestatee Ford for an unbeatable selection of new and used cars, trucks, and SUVs!

No accident is ever pleasant. Even if it's simply a fender-bender, your perfect Ford will have been damaged. Fortunately, in Dahlonega, GA, your Ford dealer can return your car to its pristine state. When we perform a collision repair, we return your car to showroom condition. This is how we provide high-quality repairs for you. Check-In and Inspection When you arrive at our state-of-the-art repair center, we'll help you with the check-in procedure. While this is being completed, one of our Ford-trained experts will conduct a thorough examination of your car's damage. Due to their training and experience, our technicians can assess the damage under your car's bodywork by visual inspection. The technician will complete a detailed report, together with photos and a video log. This information will be used for planning the repair and arranging the necessary spare parts. We can also help you with arranging a hire car if you need one. more Estimate and Pre Repair Our technicians will prepare and estimate the repairs, including the time to complete them. If you're arranging the repair, our technicians will be happy to answer any questions you have on the repairs and how we'll complete them. If your insurance is organizing the repair we'll liaise with their assessors to help speed up the approval process. Once we receive confirmation from you or your insurance company, we'll start the pre-repair process. Our technicians will collect all the required replacement parts from our parts store. Any panels or other body parts that need painting will be sent to our paint shop. We only use genuine Ford parts in all our repairs to provide the best finish, highest safety, and perfect application. Repair Our paint technicians will paint and clear coat any necessary parts. Ford panels are prepared for painting, which allows for the highest quality finish. Once they're painted, these parts will blend seamlessly into your car. Other paint technicians will work on any smaller chips or scratches. Meanwhile, our repair technicians will focus on your car's other repairs. Minor problems like bumper straightening and paintless dent removal will go on as other technicians work on any interior or electrical problems. We use multiple teams simultaneously for our repairs, as this allows us to complete your repair and return your car ASAP. We know you're looking forward to the return of your car. Final Checks Once the repairs are complete, we recheck the repairs to confirm everything meets the high standard for a Ford repair. One of our technicians will test drive your car to ensure all the systems are working perfectly. Once this step is complete, your car will be cleaned and ready for collection. If you'd like to book a repair, call us right away at Chestatee Ford.

Owning a car means you're going to have to pay for insurance. Finding car insurance isn't hard—you can do a search online—but that doesn't guarantee you'll get the policy that's right for you. After buying a car from a Ford dealer, there are some things you need to know about insurance. 1. Auto Insurance Protects the Car, Not the Driver When you buy auto insurance, you're not buying it specifically for yourself. You're buying it for the vehicle. That means that if you let a friend or family member borrow your car and an accident occurs, your policy should cover the damages. Depending on your coverage there may be exceptions to this rule, but for the most part, your insurance policy probably won't care who was behind the wheel during an accident. more 2. Every Insurance Company Calculates Their Rates Differently There are some basic factors that are included in the equation that determines how much you'll pay each month for your premium, but every insurance company uses its own formula to determine its insurance rates. The basic factors typically taken into consideration include the make and model of the car you're driving and how your vehicle is used (whether you drive long distances or make short trips). In addition, some of the other factors that go into calculating your monthly premiums include the following: Where you live Your credit score Your gender, age, and marital status 3. Personal Insurance Won't Cover Side Gigs If you bought your vehicle because you want to use it to make some extra money on the side by delivering pizzas or other food items or being a ride-share driver, you need to realize that is classified as a business venture, and your personal insurance won't cover any damages that might occur while you're engaged in your side gig. 4. Comprehensive and Collision Coverage Are Not the Same Typically, there are two different types of insurance coverage you can get on your car: comprehensive and collision. Knowing the differences between the two is essential should you find yourself in an accident. Comprehensive insurance coverage will protect you against theft and damage caused by issues other than a collision, including your vehicle catching fire, getting dented by hail, or hitting an animal. Collison coverage reimburses you for costs associated with damaged caused by getting into an accident with another vehicle or slamming into an inanimate object such as a guardrail or tree. If you roll your vehicle or hit a pothole, those damages should also be covered by the collision portion of your insurance policy. Your car is an investment, and to make sure it's protected, you need to have the right insurance coverage. If you're looking for a vehicle that's worth insuring, visit Chestatee Ford today!

Fall is such an amazing time of year in Georgia. The weather cools down, and we have the first rains! Fall also means plenty of outdoor activities – hiking, biking, and fishing. We're here to suggest some great fall activities you can drive right to from Dahlonega, GA. Lake Zwerner Trail The Lake Zwerner Trail is a 4.5-mile loop around Lake Zwerner, and it's easy for hikers of all ages. There are several spots along the trail where you can park and head out on foot, or you can park at one of the paved parking lots near the trailhead and take a stroll with your family or friends. The lake is stocked with trout and has a boat ramp and dock for fishing enthusiasts. The view from the dam is beautiful, especially when it's beginning to get dark out and the lights come on! more Amicalola Falls State Park Amicalola Falls State Park is one of Georgia's most scenic state parks. The park contains the highest waterfall in Georgia, a beautiful waterfall that drops over 80 feet. The park also offers miles of hiking trails, swimming holes, and camping spots. It's a great place to spend a day or weekend with your family. The park is located just outside of Dahlonega on Highway 52. There are several hiking trails that will take you to the top of Amicalola Falls, where you can take in the view from above. You can also take a ride on the trolley that runs between the parking lot and the visitor center. You can even stay overnight at the campground or cabins located within the park grounds if you want to make an all-day trip out of it! Vogel State Park Located just over an hour from Dahlonega, Vogel is the perfect place to enjoy some autumn weather. The park offers 5 miles of hiking trails, a picnic area, camping, and more. The park's most popular trail is the Chimney Tops Trail. It's an easy 2-mile hike that takes you up to the top of Chimney Tops — Georgia's highest point — where you'll enjoy a 360-degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail is well marked with red blazes, and there are several places along the way where you can stop for a break and enjoy the scenery. An adventurer like you needs a car that can handle the busy Dahlonega roads. Whether you are headed to one of the locations above or even running your weekly errands, you need a car that can withstand it. With the lane keep assist of the Ford F-150 XLT, you can safely navigate the local Dahlonega area. Stop by Chestatee Ford to help you find the perfect car for your lifestyle.

A delicious smoothie or a refreshing juice are both great ways to kick start your day or refuel if you need a pick-me-up. There are plenty of great juice bars and smoothie places not too far from Dahlonega, GA, so take a trip to one of these top picks next time you need refreshment. Tropical Smoothie Cafe This joint prides itself on offering bold smoothie combinations that are full of flavor. All drinks are made to order using only fresh, high-quality ingredients. There's a great selection of refreshing fruit and vegetable blends, and you can add a health supplement or a superfood to any option if you're looking for additional benefits. Bring the whole family along in your spacious Ford Explorer to check out the options on the kids' menu. If you're in a hurry you can order online in advance for curbside pick-up, or relax and stay for lunch if you have some free time. The menu has plenty of tasty healthy options to accompany your smoothie, such as wraps, flatbreads, and sandwiches. more Roots Organic Juice Bar This small family business uses only organic and locally-sourced produce in its delicious drinks. Promoting health and well-being, they encourage everyone to take that first step towards a better lifestyle. Sit inside the cozy bar and enjoy a drink or a smoothie bowl, or grab something freshly made and bottled to take home. Juices are mostly geared at specific health benefits, such as the Energizer and the Fat Dissolver, so you can easily choose the right juice for you. Smoothies vary daily depending on seasonal availability, so it's always worth a repeat visit to see what's new. There are slushies if you fancy something cold, and a few choices for kids if you're with the family. Smoothie King This popular chain of smoothie joints has an extensive menu with something to suit all tastes and needs. They pride themselves on helping guests achieve their health and fitness goals, and the menu has various categories as a result, including Get Fit and Feel Energized. The ingredients for each blend are organic and non-GMO, with no artificial additives, so you know you're getting a fresh and healthy drink. Be sure to check out the seasonal specials, like the pumpkin range in Fall. If you're in a rush, their advance ordering system ensures you can still enjoy a refreshing health kick without having to wait around. Smoothie King has a great VIP club where you can collect points towards future discounts, so if you plan to visit regularly it's well worth signing up. You don't have to travel too far to find some great places to grab your juice or smoothie fix, so next time you fancy something fresh and healthy, try out one of these top 3. Once you're reenergized and ready to go, stop by Chestatee Ford and see how we can help you with your motoring needs.

Surrounded by national forests, large reservoirs, and some of the most scenic nature reserves in the northern part of the state, the city of Dahlonega, GA, is a fantastic gateway to explore the region in your 2022 Ford Ranger. If you are searching for the best swimming spots to enjoy a summer day with your friends or family, here are three beautiful destinations you can reach in one hour or less from the city center. 1. River Forks Park Featuring a 40,000-square-foot beach on the shores of Lake Lanier, River Forks Park is a well-known destination among swimmers and water sports enthusiasts from all over northern Georgia. Covering an area of about 112 acres, this park is located just 25 miles south of the Dahlonega city center and can be reached in a little over half an hour via route GA-60. Some of the amenities that make this place a popular summertime destination include a large family campground equipped with electricity and water hookups, lakeside picnic areas, a public boat ramp, and a fishing pier. Open year-round between 10:00 am and 7:00 pm, River Forks Park is a great day trip destination for Dahlonega locals. more 2. Don Carter State Park Situated on the north end of Lake Lanier, Don Carter State Park is a top-rated destination that draws thousands of visitors each year and offers excellent facilities for water lovers. Whether you want to swim, fish, hike, or simply enjoy a lakeside picnic with your friends, this public recreation area is a place you should definitely check out while exploring the region. Some of the facilities that make Don Carter State Park a great weekend or day trip destination include a large network of multi-use trails, public boat ramps, a primitive camping area, a fully equipped campground, designated fishing spots, and a long beach. Located a little over 20 miles southeast of the Dahlonega city center, this state park can be reached in about half an hour via route GA-52. 3. Lake Blue Ridge Recreation Area Located about 55 miles northwest of downtown Dahlonega, Lake Blue Ridge Recreation Area is another fantastic summertime destination where you can swim, hike, camp, and enjoy many other recreational activities in an idyllic nature reserve. Open year-round between 7:00 am and 8:30 pm, this place features picnic spots, a 43-unit campground, and a kayak rental shop. Getting here takes about one hour by car via route GA-52. If you are searching for a trusted local dealership to buy a new or used vehicle in Dahlonega, visit us today at Chestatee Ford! One of our expert team members will tell you all about our latest models and the flexible financing plans we have available for our customers.