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Vehicle engine and transmission

Does Your Ford Need a Transmission Repair?

If you are a Ford owner, it is crucial to be aware of the signs that your car may need the transmission checked out. Transmission fixes can be costly, and we want to make sure you have all the information before going ahead with a major repair! Read on to find out what the signs are that your Ford needs a transmission repair at your Ford dealer: more 1. Difficulty Shifting Gears Does your transmission shift gears often without your knowledge? Does your transmission refuse to shift or act erratically when attempting to change gears? If this is the case, it may be time for a transmission fix at a dealer near you. Poorly shifting gears can cause various issues such as having your auto shut down, loss of power, and even reducing the life of your engine. 2. Noises When Shifting Gears Does your car make strange noises whenever you try to change gears? If so, this may indicate that your vehicle needs a transmission fix at the dealer. These sounds can be identified as grinding, popping, and others, meaning that there may be damage to gears. It is vital to fix this issue immediately before it becomes worse and you find yourself needing more than just a transmission checkup! 3. Check Engine Light Is On If your check engine light came on and you were unsure as to why, it may be an indication of a bigger problem! A transmission checkup can help identify what issue is causing the check engine light. Your car has many sensors throughout the system that monitor important issues such as gears, power steering, gas levels, tire pressure, and other items. If one of these sensors reports a problem, your check engine light may come on to suggest that you check with a dealer for repairs. 4. Slips in and Out of Gear If your car frequently slips out of gear, it might indicate a more significant issue going on with the transmission! While it is normal for the vehicle to slip out of gear during a gear shift, it should not do it constantly. The slipping gears may cost you gas mileage and damage your vehicle if not fixed quickly. Driving with your transmission slipping can cause overheating, which will eventually lead to other problems! 5. Loss of Power Does your car often lose power? This is a common sign that there may be damage to the transmission or clutch. When this happens, it will cause a slip in the gears and change your vehicle's performance. If you notice a loss of power while driving, pull over as soon as safely possible and call for assistance! 6. Transmission Needs to Be Flushed If your car has recently gone through a major repair, such as an oil change or re-torque, and the transmission fluid needs to be flushed, it is crucial to note that this will cause issues with the gears. This oil change should be performed by a dealer so that you can prevent any damage from occurring. Have you been considering a transmission checkup for your Ford? If so, visit our team at Chestatee Ford. We have years of experience working with transmissions and can help get your car back on the road in no time! Whether you are looking to purchase or would like some insight into what options are available if you want to upgrade, we'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. Give us a call today!   Image Courtesy of Pixabay

Woman picking apples

7 Great Outdoor Activities to Enjoy Near Dahlonega, GA

Sitting beside the lush Chattahoochee National Forest, in the foothills of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, the small, scenic town of Dahlonega, GA is a wonderful place for outdoor activities. This region of Georgia is a land of beautiful waterfalls, wildlife preserves, horseback riding, and rich old west history. Whatever kind of day trip you're looking for, you're in the right town. more Hiking in Chattahoochee National Forest This enormous, lush forest is the perfect place for a day or two of outdoor adventures. It's well-known as a hiker's paradise, with terrific trails that take you past thundering waterfalls, alongside glistening rivers, over rolling hills, and up onto high ridges with breathtaking views. This wild landscape set the scene for the first gold rush, and as you trek through it, you'll feel just as adventurous as those first hardy explorers. Feeding the Animals at Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and Zoo This wonderful home of predominantly rescued or orphaned animals is home to over 100 exotic and native species. Take the kids to feed the animals, and to marvel at cute bear cubs and tiger cubs. The organization is run mostly on donations, so be sure to bring along at least a little food to help out. Horse Riding with Dahlonega Carriage & Horse Rides Experience a taste of the old west from the first moment you arrive at this rustic 1800's-style riverside establishment when a horse-drawn wagon picks you up from the edge of the ranch. Here, you can roam the property's scenic trails on horseback, before stopping for a hearty home-cooked meal of steak and BBQ. There are other old-style western activities to try out at this characterful place, including horseshoe pitching and even gold panning. Kayaking with Chestatee River Adventures Float peacefully over the gorgeous river waters in an inflatable tube, or go on a glorious 2.5-mile kayaking journey upriver, guided by the friendly staff of this local company. The nearby waters are quiet and secluded, and you're likely to see all manner of wildlife as you paddle. In the river, there are bass, perch, and catfish aplenty. On the banks, you're likely to catch sight of turtles, deer, turkeys, blue herons, and more. Picking Fruit at Reece Orchards There's a great deal of family fun to be had at this large farm surrounded by gorgeous hilly vistas. You can pick apples to your heart's content. For the kids, there's also a giant farm slide, and even a petting zoo, to meet and feed the farm animals. Exploring with Monster Van Tours To be taken straight from downtown Dahlonega up into the most awe-inspiring spots of the North Georgia Mountains, book a tour with Monster Van Tours. The oversized windows allow for a clear view of all that you pass, and you'll stop off in many places to stretch your legs and soak in the vistas. The best thing about this service is your experienced tour guide, who can fill you in on all the best stories of this region steeped in old west history and lore. Birdwatching in Georgia's Wildlife Resources Division Areas The nearby Chestatee WMA and Blue Ridge WMA are two fantastic locations for birdwatchers. If you're lucky, you'll catch sight of plenty of rare species, one example of which is the reclusive golden-winged warbler. Besides our winged friends, there's plenty more wildlife you're likely to come across, including raccoons, opossums, bobcats, feral hogs, deer, and even bears. Whichever of these thrilling activities you decide to try out, make sure you also visit Chestatee Ford, a family-run dealership with strong family values, waiting to provide for all your vehicle purchasing and servicing needs.   Image Courtesy of Pixabay

Ford F-150 Lightning driving

11 Things to Know About the New Ford F-150 Lightning

The new 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning may appear very similar to the gas and diesel-powered F-150s, but this is a very different pickup. more 1. All-Electric Pickup The 2022 F-150 Lightning is a fully electric vehicle. The vehicle is an all-new model for the Ford pickup truck line-up in 2022. All-wheel drive is standard, and the EV is capable of towing up to 10,000 pounds. 2. Same Platform Unlike many other EVs on the market, the all-new F-150 Lightning shares many components with the existing truck platform. Ford has taken the best of a top-seller and brought it to the EV market. 3. Trims The all-new F-150 Lightning is available in four trims. Buyers have the choice of the most affordable base Pro model plus three extra trims, including the XLT, the Lariat, and the Platinum. 4. Awesome Good Looks The all-new F-150 Lightning shares the same great looks as the gas, diesel, and hybrid models. The tough-looking front-end appears almost the same and the body style is almost identical. 5. Electric Range The standard 2022 F-150 Lightning is available with a standard-range battery that is good for around 230 miles. The extended-range battery will give drivers a range of around 300 miles. 6. Electric Power All 2022 F-150 Lightning models come with two electric motors in an all-wheel-drive configuration. With the standard-range battery, the engine turns out 426 horsepower. The extended range battery increases the engine's output to a massive 563 horsepower and a whopping 775 pound-feet of torque. 7. Excellent Handling The steering and handling on the 2022 F-150 Lightning models are outstanding. The all-wheel-drive system provides for excellent traction on bumpy and paved roads. The steering is direct, and the ride is firm without sacrificing comfort for the driver and the passengers. 8. Towing and Payload The extended-range version 2022 F-150 Lightning provides the most amount of towing capacity at 10,000 pounds. The standard-range version of the 2022 F-150 Lightning can tow around 7,200 pounds and has a payload capacity of 2,000 pounds. The extended-range version has a payload capacity of 1,800 pounds. 9. Infotainment The 2022 F-150 Lightning features a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. A larger 15.0-inch touchscreen display is available on the Lariat and the Platinum models. The system features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, and in-dash navigation. 10. Warranty Your all-new 2022 F-150 Lightning comes with excellent warranty packages. The Limited warranty covers 36,000 miles or three years, and the Powertrain warranty covers the powertrain for 60,000 miles or five years. The battery components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles. 11. Driver Safety The 2022 F-150 Lightning features a full suite of driver-assistance technologies. Notable driver aids include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and optional adaptive cruise control with the BlueCruise semi-autonomous driving mode. If you are excited and a little overwhelmed by the all-new 2022 F-150 Lightning, you are not alone. Making all the right decisions when reserving your new Lightning is much easier with expert assistance. Our experienced consultants know the vehicle and have the skills to assess your requirements down to a tee. Visit Chestatee Ford to reserve your new F-150 Lightning with complete confidence today.   Image Courtesy of Ford

Trees in state park

7 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near Dahlonega, GA

Dahlonega, GA is a picturesque mountain town situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area surrounding the town plays host to numerous awe-inspiring state parks that boast scenic vistas, flowing rivers, and countless waterfalls. Below you can find some of the best of these parks and see what they have to offer. more 1. Amicalola Falls State Park Derived from the Cherokee word for “tumbling waters”, Amicalola Falls State Park is home to the highest waterfall in Georgia at 729-feet. The park includes a variety of hiking trails, for both beginners and those more advanced, and has 829 acres of lush forest and foliage to explore. 2. Smithgall Woods State Park A nature preserve filled with wild turkey, deer, and bears, Smithgall Woods State Park offers endless opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to experience firsthand the beauty and wildness of nature. Take a stroll through the old-growth forests, have a picnic in one of the many shaded, scenic areas, or catch and release trout along the 12-mile streams. 3. Mossy Creek State Park A hidden getaway alongside the Chattahoochee River, Mossy Creek State Park is a perfect place to fish, swim, or hike in peace. Spend the day relaxing by the river, or walking along its shore to see all the fantastic rock formations that have been created. 4. Moccasin Creek State Park A 32-acre lakeside retreat, Moccasin Creek State Park is located on the western shore of Lake Burton in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. A top destination for outdoor activities, the park boasts short, easily walkable trails, lakeside campsites, and fishing areas made especially for elders, children, and those with disabilities. 5. Vogel State Park Found at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Vogel State Park features a waterfall, streams, plentiful greenery and wildlife, and Lake Trahlyta. There's no end to the things you can do at the park, from hiking trails up the mountain to swimming in the lake. Spend the day, or night, and see what the park has to offer. 6. Don Carter State Park Located on the north end of the 39,000 acres Lake Lanier, Don Carter State Park boasts an impressive area of recreational activities on both land and in the water. Go for a swim at the large sandy beach, or explore the trails through the hardwood forest. Wherever your outdoor interests lie, this park has got you covered. 7. Tallulah Gorge State Park Surrounding the 1,000-foot gorge carved by the Tallulah River, Tullulah Gorge State Park shows off the awesome power of nature with six stunning waterfalls. Hiking the gorge or climbing its walls gives you the full experience of this spectacle. But if you're not feeling up to it, check out the park during aesthetic and whitewater release days for a viewing experience like no other. Whether you're taking a family vacation or on your own traversing the area, you are sure to be enthralled by these parks. After you experience the wild of the north Georgia mountains, head on over and visit Chestatee Ford and take a test drive in one of our new and used vehicles.   Image Courtesy of Pixabay

Bike Trail

3 of the Best Bike Paths and Trails Near Dahlonega, GA

There's nothing quite as exhilarating as speeding down exciting biking trails deep in the woods. Residents and visitors of Dahlonega, GA are spoiled for choice when it comes to bike paths, with an excellent selection to choose from. So, hop on your bike and get ready for a day out on one of these amazing trails. more 1. Eight Gaps Eight Gaps is a fast-paced ride along forest roads in the Bull Mountain area to the north of Dahlonega. It's particularly good if the other singletrack trails in the area are rendered impassible by snow, ice, or mud, or during the freeze-thaw season, as it can usually be ridden in most weather conditions. The full loop is a little under 20 miles long in total, more than enough for a good day's ride. The trail starts at the foot of Cooper's Gap Road, which climbs up to the top of the main ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, before following the ridge along to Winding Stair Gap. From there, it's a steep downhill back to the parking lot. You probably won't need to pedal at all for the final three miles. Be careful, as the area is used by the Army Rangers for practice, and make sure to wear orange during hunting season. 2. Nimblewill Road Another great forest road ride in the same area is Nimblewill Road, a gentle out-and-back ride that takes you up and over the gap of the same name, between Frosty Mountain and Black Mountain. At just over 13 miles, it makes a good ride, but it's quite hard to find a way back again aside from a long road ride. The only off-road return is via Anderson Creek Forest Road, but this has been largely abandoned and is very difficult to pass. Start from Nimblewill Baptist Church, there are about 2 miles of paved road before it switches to gravel upon entering USFS land. Expect a steep climb for the next four miles up to the gap, where several other trails intersect, including Amicalola Creek Road, which leads to Amicalola Falls State Park.  After this, it's a fairly technical downhill run, thanks to the poor condition of the road. 3. Bull and Jake Mountain Trail One of the few trails in the North Georgia Mountains that features proper red clay singletrack is this 25-mile loop, starting from the terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The trail offers a bit of everything, including stream crossings, sustained climbs, and loose rocks to contend with. Start at the trailhead for Bull Mountain, the trail climbs slowly through big trees, before descending to ford a creek. Eventually, you'll loop back around to where you started, but it's a good idea to bring a map of some description, as there are a lot of trail intersections that can get confusing. The trail is very popular with equestrians, so look out for horses. These are a few of our favorite trails in the area, but perhaps we've missed your favorite? Visit us at Chestatee Ford today and tell us about it! Image Courtesy of Pixabay

Safety plate

3 Innovative Car Safety Features You'll Find in Today's Ford Vehicles

All modern vehicles have safety features that make your ride safer and smoother. Ford's car safety features are some of the most advanced features on the market. Let's examine some of those features now, so you'll know what you should look for when you're purchasing a new Ford vehicle from your Ford dealer. more 1. Lane-Keeping System It can be easy to get distracted while driving these days. Your kids will be busy talking in the back, the radio's often on, and there are so many things to keep track of while driving that you end up drifting towards the edge of your lane. Thankfully, you don't have to worry about getting into any danger if you drift while in a Ford vehicle. Ford vehicles scan the lane, and they let you know when you're close to crossing over the edge. If you've drifted a few times, then a coffee cup icon will appear on your dash, and this is to let you know that you need to take a break from driving. You need to pull over until the distraction dies down, or you need a power nap if you're driving while tired. 2. Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control The Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control feature has several functions, and all of them make driving simpler for you. You can input your preferred speed and activate speed sign recognition, and this will let your vehicle automatically adjust your speed to match your preferences and the speed limit signs that you encounter on your journey. The Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control can even stop your vehicle when the vehicle is ahead of you is slowing down or stopping. This feature is perfect for distracted drivers, as you have one less thing to worry about while you're driving. Of course, you should always keep track of what speed you're driving at, and you should never use safety features as an excuse not to practice safe driving. You and your vehicle need to work as a team to ensure optimal road safety. 3. Rearview Camera Seeing behind your vehicle isn't the easiest thing to do when you're driving in reverse. After looking in the rearview mirrors, you still have blindspots, so you often have to crane your neck and stare out the back windshield to get the best view. This isn't always an easy task, and it can get uncomfortable, too. Thankfully, Ford makes this task much easier by providing a rearview camera for you to utilize. The rearview camera makes it much easier to back in and out of parking spots, and it insures that there are no vehicles or other obstacles in your path. You should regularly clean the camera lens so your view isn't obscured by debris such as dust or snow, and be sure to drive slower than 6 miles per hour when you're using it. The camera is for use while backing in/out of spaces, so it won't work if you're driving too quickly. Visiting Chestatee Ford will grant you access to the newest and best Ford vehicles on the market, so stop by today.

Group of kids

8 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Dahlonega, GA

Looking to entertain the family with some exciting activities this weekend?  The charming town of Dahlonega, GA has you covered! Here are some of the best kid-friendly activities, which the adults can also enjoy, that this scenic place has to offer. more 1. Horse riding What better way to take in the beautiful pastures and shady forests of Dahlonega than on horseback! Both Dahlonega Carriage and Horse rides and Sunny Farms North Stables offer guided trails for riders of all abilities. Saddle up for a kid-friendly adventure! 2. Tubing and Kayaking Relax, unwind and take in the views of the gorgeous Chestatee river. Chestatee River Adventures offers kayaking and tubing experiences. Relax in the designated tubing area for as long as you like, soaking up the peaceful nature and wildlife of the Georgia mountains. 3. Gold Museums Being the site of the country's first major gold rush means that Dahlonega has a special place in the history of the USA. Located in the old Lumpkin County courthouse, The Dahlonega gold museum gives you the chance to learn about the mining history of Georgia. With 5-ounce gold nuggets on display, it's sure to dazzle the kids. 4. Gold Mining Prefer to take a more practical approach to historical education? Journey 200 feet underground at the Consolidated Gold mines, to experience the largest hard rock gold mine east of the Mississippi. After the tour, try your hand at gem-mining or gold panning where the pros will teach you everything they know. 5. Chestatee Wildlife Preserve Perfect for animal and nature lovers, this zoo, situated on 30 acres of farmland, is home to over 125 animals. As well as domestic wildlife, the preserve houses a number of stunning rare and endangered species; Siberian tigers, African Lions, and leopards to name just a few. A day spent here could be an experience to last a lifetime. 6. Red Oak Lavender Farm Step into a relaxing dream that shouldn't be possible. Despite experts stating that lavender can't be grown in Georgia, this farm boasts 2000 lavender plants. Blooming between May and September, visit these lavender fields and stun your senses. Take note that as culinary lavender is grown here, pets are not permitted. 7. Ghost Tours In the mood for something spooky? Entertain your teenage kids (ages 13 and over) with a tour of the paranormal Hotspots of Dahlonega. Ghost sightings are a part of Dahlonega's past and local expert Jeremy Sharp will take you on a thrilling tour of the town, including the historically significant cemetery. 8. The Planetarium Explore the night's sky at the George E. Coleman, Sr. Planetarium. This free show will take you on an immersive journey of our universe. Journey through the constellations and planets as you learn what can be seen in the night sky currently and upcoming astronomical events. There are plenty of exciting and entertaining kid-friendly activities to do in and around town. Visit us at Chestatee Ford to find out what we have to offer you from our amazing line of new and pre-owned vehicles!

House attraction

The Top 3 Local Attractions for Visitors to Dahlonega, GA

With a population of just about 8,000, Dahlonega, GA, is a small city located less than 70 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Right in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, it is known for its past as the site of the second major discovery of gold in the state of Georgia. Although it is a relatively small town, Dahlonega welcomes thousands of visitors each year, with several local attractions, cozy cafés, and small restaurants. more 1. Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site Housed in the building of an old courthouse, the Dahlonega Gold Museum is the main touristic attraction in the city. Featuring an impressive collection of artifacts from the 1836 gold rush, it is located just a block away from Hancock Park and the Dahlonega Visitors Center, right in the city center. Guided tours can be booked by phone, and tickets can be bought on-site, with discounts available for youth and senior visitors. If you are looking for a place where you can learn more about the history of the area and the events associated with one of the first gold rushes in the country, the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site is a place you should definitely check out while in town. In the permanent exhibition, you will find several old gold coins, gold panning equipment, gold nuggets, as well as educational films and books. 2. Dahlonega Historic Downtown With charming streets, brick sidewalks, small local shops, art galleries, and restaurants, Dahlonega's historic downtown area is a place where you can go for a relaxing stroll and have a pleasant time with your friends or family. Most buildings in the area were built during the 1830s, when the region's gold rush began attracting workers from all over the region. A good tip for visitors is to stop by the Dahlonega Visitors Center and grab a free map of the town. Some of the places you should not miss while in Dahlonega's historic downtown area include Hancock Park and the city's main square, as well as the Holly Theatre, the Old Jail, the Price Memorial Hall, and the Chestatee River Diving Bell. Once you are done exploring these sites, stop by one of the charming cafés along Main Street and grab a delicious dessert, or, if you are feeling hungry, check out the restaurants serving local and international food. 3. Crisson Gold Mine As you might have noticed, most of the attractions in and around Dahlonega are linked to the gold rush that took place in the area in the early 19th Century. While the Dahlonega Gold Museum is an excellent place to start, there is nothing like visiting an open-pit gold mine to learn more about the town's history. Crisson Gold Mine is located just five miles north of the downtown area and offers guided tours for visitors. Are you looking for new or used vehicles for sale in the Dahlonega area? If the answer is yes, stop by Chestatee Ford. We have an extensive catalog of cars, as well as the most convenient financing plans in the market.

Car repair part

3 Reasons to Get an Alternator Repair at Your Dahlonega Ford Dealership

You should always visit your Dahlonega, GA Ford dealership when you need an alternator repair. There are plenty of benefits to doing this, and we want to share them with you below. You should also swing by your Ford dealer for all of your regular service needs, as you won't find this high-quality service anywhere else. more 1. Our Technicians Are Factory Trained Experts Your alternator is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. It supplies the power to your battery, so if the alternator is faulty, then you won't be able to drive very far. That's why you need somebody who knows Ford vehicles inside and out. You can't settle for a general repair job on a part as important as your alternator. Every vehicle make and model has its little nuances, and only factory-trained Ford experts know about Ford's nuances. A general fix will never be as thorough as an expert fix, so don't settle for second best. Only consult experts when you need something fixed in your vehicle. 2. We Work Faster Than Anyone Else Most of the time, you'll be waiting a day or two to get your vehicle back when you get a repair from a regular auto repair shop. This is because regular auto repair shops are usually understaffed; they may only have two or three mechanics working for them. Dealerships employ over a dozen technicians, so there are plenty of experts to go around. Our technicians don't have a backlog of work to get done before they can work on your vehicle. Instead, there'll be someone available to take your vehicle as soon as it comes in. This lets us get your vehicle back to you in only a few hours most of the time. 3. We Have Ford Parts on Hand Sometimes your vehicle will need a new part during your repair, and regular auto repair shops won't have these parts on hand. Regular auto repair shops work on so many different types of vehicles, so it's almost impossible for them to stock parts for every single vehicle make and model that they work on. They'll have to order your part in, and it could take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to arrive. However, we work on Ford vehicles all the time, so we have plenty of spare Ford parts around. If we have your part in stock, then we can get to work straight away, and you won't be waiting around for days or weeks on end. Even if we don't have the right part in stock, then it's likely that we'll be able to get it in faster than a regular auto repair shop would. After all, we order Ford parts all the time, so we have good, long-lasting relationships with manufacturers. Come by Chestatee Ford when your alternator is faulty. Our expert technicians will fix it right up for you, and your vehicle will be back to normal in no time.

Microphone at concert

6 Popular Live Music Venues Near Dahlonega, GA

There's something about the experience of seeing live music on stage that can't be reproduced digitally. The atmosphere, the energy of the crowd, and the connection to the performers can be magical. Thankfully, you don't need to travel very far from Dahlonega, GA to experience this firsthand. Here are some of our favorite local live music venues and events. 1. The Crimson Moon For a truly intimate acoustic performance experience, this dinner-style theater houses some of the most popular regional acoustic singer-songwriters. Every one of its 100 seats has a clear view of the stage and is between five and forty feet from the stage. The venue offers the charm of an 1858 storehouse, which makes for an even more memorable experience. more 2. Holly Theatre Home of live concerts, musicals, and Broadway-style shows, this historic theater attracts headline talent and numerous tribute-style performances. This theater also includes family-friendly concerts on their list of events, so there's something for the kids to enjoy, too. Concerts and shows frequently sell out, so you'll want to purchase tickets well in advance. 3. Canopy and the Roots This charming coffee house and yoga studio offers musical performances, spoken word, and sketch comedy nights in a chill and relaxing atmosphere. You can enjoy everything from jazz to blues to soul-folk to indie-pop at this intimate and eclectic venue that supports the local budding music scene. Their pristine and acoustically-tuned listening room ensures the music you hear is pure, without background noise or distractions. 4. First Friday Night Series During the warm summer nights, you can enjoy live concerts and picnics in the park while supporting local musicians through Downtown Dahlonega's First Friday Night series of events. Happening the first Friday of the month from April to October, these free concerts are a great way to appreciate the vast local talent Dahlonega has to offer and spend time with neighbors and friends. 5. Three Sisters Vineyards Visit here to enjoy a relaxing wine tasting and acoustic music at Dahlonega's first “family farm winery.” Held only occasionally, you'll want to take advantage of these intimate performances while you can. Dogs are welcome here, as long as they are leashed, and special treats are kept behind the bar just for them. As always, you should drink responsibly, not drink and drive, and drink in moderation. Alcohol is for adults of legal drinking age only, so bring your ID. 6. Bear on the Square Festival If bluegrass or old-time music is your favorite, you won't want to miss this hugely popular festival, happening only one weekend in April. The festival offers a full schedule of free concerts by popular bluegrass musicians, and an homage to Appalachian life with story-telling, entertainers, and a collection of highly acclaimed artists selling their wares. You won't want to miss the exciting experience of attending a live concert with your favorite musician, so be sure to stop by Chestatee Ford to check out our selection of highly reliable new and used cars, trucks, and SUVs. They'll be sure to get you to your next concert on time.

The Top 6 Dessert Spots Near Dahlonega, GA

You may initially think that since Dahlonega is not Atlanta, and that it has a smaller more historic town vibe, that there are not many places to go to get some good food or treat yourself. These cute and delicious dessert places prove that wrong and reflect both the diversity of Dahlonega, GA, and the history of the city. Here are just some of the best places around here to take care of that sweet tooth. 1. Picnic Cafe Picnic Cafe lives up to its name and has offered customers for the last 20 years, homemade family recipes. Beginning in 2001, Sam and Julia Norton opened the store onto the Dahlonega square and quickly became a part of the community, and has since then continued to offer both breakfast and lunch options, as well as cakes, pastries, and sweet coffee drinks. more 2. Dahlonega Fudge Factory The Dahlonega Fudge Factory, a family-owned business established in 1982, has been a staple of the Dahlonega square. When entering the store customers can be met with over 70 different kinds of handmade chocolates, fudges, pralines, brittles, and caramel nuggets that will take them for a trip. At the Fudge Factory, guests can additionally see the sweet candies being made, which is an experience in and of itself. 3. Connie's Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop Located in downtown Dahlonega, Connie's Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop recreates the old ice cream parlor feel while still offering its customers a wide assortment of both ice creams and toppings, as well as hot dogs, burgers, and Cuban-style paninis. Connie's has 24 flavors of Mayfield Ice Cream that they use, which can all be used to make creamy and decadent milkshakes. 4. Diletto Bakery Just outside of Dahlonega in Gainesville, GA is Diletto Bakery which pleases the taste buds of every person that comes in with their large variety of pastries, breads, and rich coffees. A new store opened just 2 years ago in 2019, Diletto Bakery has made a name for itself and has been serving locals with cupcakes, flan, key lime pie, as well as sandwiches and bagels. Diletto's also has a selection of vegan and gluten-free products as well. 5. River Mill Bakery River Mill Bakery keeps Artisan-style baking alive and has been offering its perfected breads to the community since 2016. Using recipes from local sources as well as imported from Europe, River Mill Bakery bakes a variety of pastries, cakes, breads, and cookies. They even offer event hosting, catering, and kids workshops where kids of all ages can learn about what goes into baking and decorating. 6. Southern Baked Pie Company Formerly Buttermilk Pie Company, Southern Baked Pie company uses the fresh seasonal fruit from local Georgian farms to craft all kinds of delicious pies that their clients can enjoy. They offer whole pies, petite pies, and bite-sized tassies to everyone, and will even ship pies to customers across the country. Southern Baked Pie Company stays true to their Southern charm with their all-butter pie dough, and crafts these sweet treats for any and all occasions. These sweets are great for any time of the year, and any time of the day, so no matter whether you are just about to start your day or are just ending it, go check out one of these hard-working community favorites and treat yourself. Then come over to Chestatee Ford to take a look through our new and used Ford models.

Getting to Know the 2021 Ford Edge

If you're looking for a brand-new SUV, then we're here to tell you that the 2021 Ford Edge has an edge over its competition. With two engine options, a revamped infotainment system, generous cargo space, and more, the Edge is full of surprises. Basics About the 2021 Ford Edge This model of the crossover only became available towards the end of 2020. It offers the smooth driving of a sedan while retaining the spacious, not to mention premium, interior of a compact SUV. It is offered at 5 trim levels: SE, SEL, ST-Line, Titanium, and ST. more Performance The first four trim levels of the Ford Edge are equipped with a Twin-Scroll 2.0L EcoBoost engine, paired with eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with an option to upgrade to an all-wheel drive drivetrain. This engine delivers 250 horsepower and smooth, enjoyable driving. If you are searching for more power, then the ST trim is the Edge you're looking for. Equipped with a dynamic twin-turbo 2.7L V6 EcoBoost engine, this vehicle can churn out an impressive 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. Interior The Edge is spacious and comfortable; as a two-row SUV, it can haul five passengers and plenty of cargo. It has dual-zone automatic climate control installed as standard on all trims, the layout is elegant and stylish, with the higher trims offering features such as leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, and ambient lighting. Technology All trims now come with a 12” infotainment display installed with Ford's up-to-date Sync 4A software. The top four trims are also installed with two additional driver-configurable 4.2” LCD displays within the cluster. The Edge is installed with a full suite of safety and driver-assist technologies, including Ford's Blind Spot Information System and lane-keeping system, while higher trims include adaptive cruise control, the option for evasive steering, and park assist systems. Pricing SE Prices for the Edge SE begin from $32,750. This includes all the key features of the Ford Edge, including the 12” infotainment system and intelligent access with push-button start. SEL Starting from $35,190, the SEL brings all the features of the SE, plus LED daytime running lamps, ActiveX seating material for extra comfort and style, and a SiriusXM Audio System with six speakers. ST-Line The ST-Line features a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching detail, LED signature lighting with dark bezel, plus all the features of the SEL Prices start from $38,940. Titanium With all the features of the ST-Line, plus an upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system, forward sensing system, heated steering wheel and leather-trimmed seats, prices for the Titanium start at $38, 940. ST The ST is at the highest end of the Ford Edge trim levels. Prices start at $43,600 for the superior powertrain, including the 2.7L V6 engine, a luxurious interior with leather-trimmed seats, Bang & Olufsen sound system, and more. This compact SUV is packed full of features and surprises, and if you'd like to see one for yourself, why not pop by our dealership. We have Ford experts on hand to answer any queries you may have, bringing you one step closer to your ideal vehicle. Visit Chestatee Ford today to find out more.

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