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  • Golf-Front or Riverside? How to Choose the Right Achasta Home

    Golf-Front or Riverside? How to Choose the Right Achasta Home

    Quick answer (TL;DR)

    Choosing between a golf-front or riverside home in Achasta depends on your personal lifestyle preferences. Golf-front homes feature wide, manicured views of the Jack Nicklaus Signature course with abundant sunlight, while riverside homes along the Chestatee River offer quiet seclusion, shade, and natural mountain scenery. Both locations provide access to the community’s gated amenities.

    One of the most personal choices Achasta home buyers face is deciding between a golf-front home and a Chestatee riverside setting.

    Jack Nicklaus Signature Fairways
    Chestatee River Water & Woods
    15 Minutes To Dahlonega
    Gated Community Access
    A wooden deck overlooks a manicured golf fairway on one side and a gentle, tree-lined river on the other
    A wooden deck overlooks a manicured golf fairway on one side and a gentle, tree-lined river on the other

    The Case for Golf-Front Homes

    Golf-front homes overlook the Jack Nicklaus Signature fairways, and the appeal is immediate: wide, manicured views, abundant morning light, and an open sense of space. If you play golf, or simply love the look of a championship course at sunrise, a fairway lot is hard to beat. These are among Achasta’s most sought-after and best-holding addresses.

    The trade-offs are worth knowing. Golf-front lots are more open, so you trade some privacy for the view, and you’ll occasionally have play moving past your back yard. For most golf lovers, that is a feature rather than a drawback. When planning your purchase, reviewing buying a home in Achasta can help clarify what to expect during your search.

    The Case for Riverside Homes

    Riverside homes along the Chestatee trade the open fairway for water and woods. The experience is quieter and more private, featuring the sound of the river, mature trees, and a tucked-away feeling that golf-front lots cannot quite match. If your idea of mountain living leans toward nature and seclusion, the riverside is your side of the community.

    Topography and Light Considerations

    Wooded riverside lots can be shadier, and river-adjacent terrain varies throughout the community. Touring a few sites helps you evaluate light and elevation differences.

    A local agent can point you to the lots that get the best of both privacy and light. To understand everyday community life, explore what living in Achasta is really like .

    Quick answer: Which lot type offers more privacy?

    Riverside homes along the Chestatee offer a quieter, more secluded setting surrounded by woods and water, whereas golf-front homes offer expansive fairway views with golfers occasionally passing by.

    How to Decide Between Golf and River Lots

    Ask yourself one question: when you picture a perfect morning at home, are you looking at an open fairway or listening to the river? That instinct usually points the way.

    Feature Golf-Front Homes Riverside Homes
    Primary View Jack Nicklaus Signature fairways Chestatee River and mature woods
    Atmosphere Open space, abundant morning light Quieter, private, tucked-away feel
    Key Considerations Active play moving past back yard Shadier lots and varying terrain

    Either choice puts you inside a gated community with the same golf, pool, pickleball, and Dahlonega charm fifteen minutes away. If you are comparing regional developments, evaluate Achasta vs. other North Georgia golf communities to see how these lot styles fit into the broader region.

    Shared Community Amenities

    All residents enjoy access to the gated entry, golf course, swimming pool, pickleball courts, and proximity to downtown Dahlonega.

    Stand in both settings to feel the difference between fairway views and river quiet before making your final choice.

    For the full menu of options, see our guide to homes for sale in Achasta , and read more in our Achasta buyer stories .

    Tour Both Before You Choose

    The best way to settle the golf-front-versus-riverside question is to stand in both settings. Gold Peach Realty can arrange a same-day tour of each, so you feel the difference for yourself. Call (770) 283-1223 or browse current listings to set it up.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I choose between a golf-front and a riverside home in Achasta?

    Consider whether you prefer wide fairway views with abundant morning light or a quieter, wooded riverside setting along the Chestatee River.

    Are community amenities equal for both golf-front and riverside residents?

    Yes, both settings provide equal access to the gated entrance, golf course, pool, pickleball courts, and downtown Dahlonega fifteen minutes away.

    Tour Both Settings Today

    Experience golf-front and riverside living firsthand with a private property tour.

    Search North Georgia homes with Gold Peach Realty

    or call (770) 283-1223

  • Buying a Home in Achasta: A Step-by-Step Guide for Out-of-Town Buyers

    Buying a Home in Achasta: A Step-by-Step Guide for Out-of-Town Buyers

    Quick answer (TL;DR)

    Buying a home in Achasta from out of town is straightforward when working with a local lender and a dedicated community agent. Because Achasta is a gated golf community in Dahlonega, advance gate access is required for showings. Narrowing your preferred home style early and reviewing HOA guidelines upfront ensures a smooth, efficient buying process.

    Buying a home in Achasta from out of town is easier than most buyers expect, as long as you understand what makes a gated golf community different from a typical purchase.

    Gated Advance access required
    5 Steps Streamlined purchase process
    Local Lender North Georgia experience
    Gold Peach Office across from gate
    House keys and paperwork rest on a wooden table beside a window overlooking a lush golf course nestled within forested mountain foothills
    House keys and paperwork rest on a wooden table beside a window overlooking a lush golf course nestled within forested mountain foothills

    A Step-by-Step Guide for Out-of-Town Buyers

    This guide is written for the buyer flying in from Atlanta, Florida, or farther, who wants to tour efficiently and buy with confidence inside the gates of Dahlonega’s premier community.

    1. Step 1 Get Pre-Approved With a Local Lender: Mountain homes and second homes are financed a little differently than a primary residence in the suburbs. A lender who knows Achasta and North Georgia properties will structure your pre-approval so your offer is taken seriously and closing goes smoothly. Ask your agent for a local referral before starting your tour of Achasta homes for sale .
    2. Step 2 Work With an Agent Who Has Gate Access: Achasta is fully gated, and showings require advance access—you cannot just drive in and tour. A community agent arranges entry, lines up multiple homes in a single visit, and often knows which properties are about to list. Gold Peach Realty is located directly across from the entrance and arranges same-day showings, which is invaluable when visiting for a weekend.
    3. Step 3 Tour by Home Style, Not Address: Decide early whether you want golf-front, riverside, a low-maintenance cottage, or new construction. Deciding early narrows the field dramatically and makes your visit productive. For more insights on choosing between options like golf-front or riverside homes , reviewing community options ahead of time helps focus your search.
    4. Step 4 Review Membership and HOA Before You Offer: Living in Achasta includes a community membership that unlocks the golf course, pool, fitness center, and social calendar, along with HOA responsibilities. Check our Achasta HOA guide or get current details from your agent before writing an offer so there are no surprises at closing.
    5. Step 5 Make a Strong Offer and Close: In a community where the best homes move fast, a clean, well-structured offer wins. Your agent guides inspection, appraisal, and closing. Because Gold Peach Realty closes Achasta transactions regularly, the process is smooth even from a thousand miles away.
    Convenient Gate Location

    Gold Peach Realty is located directly across from the Achasta entrance, allowing agents to arrange same-day showings for buyers traveling on tight schedules.

    Evaluating Home Options and Pricing

    Deciding on your preferred layout and setting before arriving in Dahlonega keeps your tour efficient. Check our buyer’s price guide and explore our real estate blog for insights into market dynamics inside the gates.

    In a community where the best homes move fast, a clean, well-structured offer wins.
    Showings Require Advance Access

    Because Achasta is a private gated community, out-of-town buyers cannot drive in unannounced. Always coordinate with your real estate agent prior to your arrival.

    Planning Your Visit to Achasta

    If you are exploring a move to Dahlonega, reviewing a welcome guide to community life helps you understand everyday amenities alongside home selection. The simplest first move is a quick phone call to outline your timeline and home preferences.

    Quick answer: Out-of-town purchasing

    With pre-approval from a local lender and an agent who can secure gate entry, remote buyers can confidently evaluate homes, schedule same-day tours, and complete closing smoothly.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can out-of-town buyers tour homes in Achasta without an agent?

    No. Achasta is fully gated, and showings require advance access arranged by an authorized community agent.

    Why is a local lender recommended for buying in Achasta?

    Mountain homes and second homes are financed differently than suburban primary residences. A local lender familiar with North Georgia properties ensures your offer is structured properly for a smooth closing.

    What amenities are included with living in Achasta?

    Living in Achasta includes community membership access to the golf course, pool, fitness center, and social calendar, alongside standard HOA responsibilities.

    Ready to Start Your Achasta Search?

    Tell Gold Peach Realty when you will be in town and what you are looking for to build a custom tour around your visit.

    Search North Georgia homes with Gold Peach Realty

    or call (770) 283-1223

  • How Much Do Homes in Achasta Cost? A 2026 Buyer's Price Guide

    How Much Do Homes in Achasta Cost? A 2026 Buyer's Price Guide

    Quick answer (TL;DR)

    Achasta home pricing is primarily determined by location within the gated community, square footage, architectural finishes, and whether you purchase a move-in-ready resale or build new construction. Interior cottages offer the most accessible entry point, while riverfront properties, golf-front homes along the Jack Nicklaus Signature course, and expansive custom estates command upper-tier pricing. Contact Gold Peach Realty to verify active market figures.

    Achasta offers a diverse selection of mountain residential properties ranging from right-sized interior cottages to custom golf-front and riverfront luxury estates.

    15 MIN To Dahlonega
    JACK NICKLAUS Signature golf views
    CHESTATEE Riverfront properties
    RESALE & NEW Construction options
    A modern craftsman home featuring stone accents, a manicured lawn, and a serene golf course green rolling into the background
    A modern craftsman home featuring stone accents, a manicured lawn, and a serene golf course green rolling into the background

    The Three Main Drivers of Achasta Home Prices

    Where a specific home lands in the Achasta price spectrum depends on three key levers. For a comprehensive look at local real estate trends, explore our guide on Achasta Home Values: What Drives Pricing in Dahlonega’s Premier Gated Community .

    • Location Inside the Gates: Golf-front homes overlooking the Jack Nicklaus Signature fairways carry a premium, as do riverside properties along the Chestatee River. Interior lots without views are typically the most attainable way into the community. Learn more about lot styles in Golf-Front or Riverside? How to Choose the Right Achasta Home .
    • Size and Finish Level: A right-sized mountain cottage sits near the entry tier, while a large custom estate with high-end finishes, multiple living areas, and acreage sits at the top of the market.
    • New Construction vs. Resale: Move-in-ready resales are priced against recent comparable sales. New construction is priced by lot selection and custom builder options, giving buyers finish control usually at a higher total investment.
    Caution: Public Listing Portal Delays

    Inventory inside this gated community moves quickly, and some of the best homes sell quietly off-market to buyers working with a local agent. Pricing on national listing portals often lags real market conditions by weeks and misses off-market opportunities entirely. Always confirm current market values with a local professional.

    What Your Budget Buys in Achasta

    Understanding home tiers helps buyers align their budget with community expectations before starting their search. If you are relocating from another area, consult Buying a Home in Achasta: A Step-by-Step Guide for Out-of-Town Buyers .

    Property Tier Typical Home Features Primary Location
    Entry-Level Tier Right-sized mountain cottages and smaller resales Interior lots within the gated grounds
    Mid-to-Upper Tier Expanded floor plans, upgraded finishes, and scenic outdoor spaces Golf-adjacent and preferred community locations
    Signature Estate Tier Expansive custom mountain architecture, premium finishes, and multiple living areas Golf-front along Jack Nicklaus Signature fairways and riverfront along the Chestatee
    Achasta rewards buyers who do their homework and work with a local expert to navigate off-market inventory and true market values.
    Quick answer: How to access off-market listings?

    Partnering directly with a local real estate agent gives buyers immediate access to newly listed properties, recent comparable sales, and unlisted off-market homes inside the gates.

    Navigating the Achasta Real Estate Market

    Achasta combines championship golf, gated security, riverfront nature, and proximity to downtown Dahlonega just fifteen minutes away. To see how Achasta compares to regional alternatives, read Achasta vs. Other North Georgia Golf Communities: Which Is Right for You? .

    When you are ready to evaluate available properties, you can browse Achasta homes for sale or connect directly with a local agent for personalized guidance.

    Local Brokerage Advantage

    Working with an agent who works inside the gates every week ensures you receive real-time market insights, precise pricing analysis, and exclusive off-market opportunities before they hit national portals.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much do homes in Achasta cost?

    Pricing ranges from entry-level interior cottages up to luxury custom mountain estates on premium golf-front and riverfront lots. Because values fluctuate based on market conditions, buyers should confirm current active prices with a local agent or Gold Peach Realty.

    What factors impact property values in Achasta?

    The three primary factors are location within the gates (such as Chestatee River or Jack Nicklaus Signature golf views versus interior lots), home size and finish level, and whether the property is a resale or custom new construction.

    Why are online listing estimates sometimes inaccurate for Achasta?

    National portals often lag local market developments by weeks and completely omit off-market sales in gated communities. A local agent working inside the gates daily provides the most accurate, up-to-date pricing data.

    Explore Current Achasta Home Pricing

    Get current listings, recent comparable sales, and unlisted opportunities inside Achasta.

    Search North Georgia homes with Gold Peach Realty

    or call (770) 283-1223

  • What Living in Achasta Is Really Like: A Day in the Community

    What Living in Achasta Is Really Like: A Day in the Community

    Quick answer (TL;DR)

    Living in Achasta combines mountain resort amenities with a tight-knit community feel in Dahlonega, Georgia. Homeowners enjoy quiet mornings along the Etowah River, early rounds on the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, easy access to downtown dining and area hiking trails, and active evening gatherings at the central clubhouse.

    Achasta functions like a small mountain resort, providing gated privacy, scenic views, and an active lifestyle just minutes from historic Dahlonega.

    7:30 AM Spring & Fall Tee Times
    10 Min To Downtown Dahlonega
    Nicklaus Signature Layout
    Etowah River Western Boundary
    Sunlight filters through tall pines onto a pristine golf green alongside a winding river, backed by wooded hills and craftsman-style homes
    Sunlight filters through tall pines onto a pristine golf green alongside a winding river, backed by wooded hills and craftsman-style homes

    Morning: Coffee and the Course

    Most Achasta mornings start quietly. The community’s gated entry keeps traffic low, while the Etowah River—which edges the western boundary of the course—provides a natural, peaceful soundtrack for residents waking up across the neighborhood.

    Golfers are frequently on the course by 7:30 AM during spring and fall. The Jack Nicklaus Signature layout rewards early rounds before the afternoon heat sets in, offering players pristine mountain views and calm conditions. Read more about what homeowners get at Achasta Golf Club to understand course access and amenities.

    Resort-Style Living in Dahlonega

    Achasta is more than a golf course with houses around it; it is a full-service gated community in Dahlonega that functions like a small mountain resort.

    Afternoon: Town, Trails, and Local Attractions

    In the afternoon, residents have direct access to both local town life and surrounding outdoor adventures. Dahlonega’s historic public square is located about 10 minutes from Achasta’s front gate, offering boutique shopping, dining, and historic charm. For more context on neighborhood life, view the living in Achasta complete guide .

    Homeowners also enjoy convenient access to regional highlights across North Georgia:

    • Local wineries throughout the surrounding Dahlonega Plateau AVA
    • The University of North Georgia campus
    • Scenic mountain hiking at Blood Mountain and Amicalola Falls
    • Downtown Dahlonega dining and local boutiques
    Quick answer: Daily Routine

    A typical day in Achasta transitions from serene riverfront mornings and early rounds of golf to afternoon outings in downtown Dahlonega or nearby trails, ending with clubhouse social activities.

    Evening: Clubhouse Gatherings and Community Spirit

    The Achasta clubhouse serves as the community’s primary social anchor. Dinner events, golf leagues, fitness classes, and informal gatherings happen regularly throughout the week, bringing neighbors together in a relaxed mountain setting.

    Achasta homeowners consistently cite the sense of community as one of the top reasons they chose and stayed in the development.
    1. Step 1 Start your day enjoying the quiet gated surroundings and early tee times along the Etowah River layout.
    2. Step 2 Spend your afternoon exploring nearby Dahlonega wineries, mountain trails, or the historic town square.
    3. Step 3 End your evening at the central clubhouse for neighborhood dinners, fitness classes, or casual socializing.

    For newcomers looking to integrate smoothly, review our welcome guide to community life in Dahlonega’s golf enclave .

    Important Buyer Consideration

    Dues, membership structures, and HOA guidelines vary across property types. Prospective buyers should confirm current figures directly with the HOA, club management, or a local real estate agent. Consult the Achasta HOA guide for foundational information.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How far is Achasta from historic downtown Dahlonega?

    Achasta’s gated entry is located about 10 minutes from Dahlonega’s historic public square.

    What outdoor amenities and attractions are near Achasta?

    Residents enjoy quick access to the Etowah River, nearby wineries in the Dahlonega Plateau AVA, the University of North Georgia campus, and mountain hiking trails at Blood Mountain and Amicalola Falls.

    What social activities take place at the clubhouse?

    The clubhouse hosts dinner events, organized golf leagues, fitness classes, and regular informal community gatherings.

    Interested in Achasta Real Estate?

    Explore current homes for sale in Dahlonega’s premier gated golf community.

    Search North Georgia homes with Gold Peach Realty

    or call (770) 283-1223

  • Achasta Golf Club: What Homeowners Get and What to Know Before You Buy

    Achasta Golf Club: What Homeowners Get and What to Know Before You Buy

    Quick answer (TL;DR)

    Achasta offers homeownership centered around a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in the North Georgia foothills. Whether purchasing for golf access or scenic mountain living, buyers should verify golf membership transferability, waitlists, and current fee structures with the club, HOA, or a local real estate agent before making an offer.

    Achasta’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course serves as the centerpiece of this gated mountain community, offering scenic living alongside high-caliber amenities.

    Jack Nicklaus Course Designer
    Early 2000s Opening Era
    Etowah River River Crossings
    Gated Enclave Foothills Lifestyle
    A sunlit craftsman home patio overlooking a manicured golf fairway, with a golf cart parked nearby under towering pine trees
    A sunlit craftsman home patio overlooking a manicured golf fairway, with a golf cart parked nearby under towering pine trees

    About the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course

    The Achasta golf course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in the early 2000s. Playing through the North Georgia foothills, the course features elevation changes, Etowah River crossings, and mountain views that make it one of the most scenic courses in the state. The course is a primary reason buyers pay a premium for homes inside the gates.

    Signature Course Features

    Designed by Jack Nicklaus in the early 2000s, the course highlights North Georgia foothill elevation changes, mountain views, and Etowah River crossings.

    When selecting a homesite, buyers often weigh location preferences between golf-course proximity and river views, as detailed in our guide on choosing golf-front or riverside Achasta homes .

    Golf Membership and Homeownership Guidelines

    Golf membership at Achasta Club may be included with or available alongside HOA membership, as the exact structure has evolved over time. Before purchasing, confirm with the seller whether a golf membership transfers, what fees are involved, and whether there is a waitlist for membership.

    Important Buyer Caution

    Before signing a contract, confirm membership transferability, current fee structures, and waitlist status with the club, HOA, or a local real estate agent, as ongoing costs vary by tier.

    For complete details on neighborhood regulations and policies, review the Achasta HOA guide for homeowners and buyers before completing your purchase.

    Quick answer: Golf Membership Transfer

    Golf membership structures have evolved over time, so buyers should confirm directly with the seller and club whether a membership transfers, what fees apply, and if a waitlist exists.

    Living in Achasta for Non-Golfers

    You do not need to golf to enjoy living in Achasta. As explored in our overview of what living in Achasta is really like , residents have access to various social and recreational amenities across the community.

    • Community swimming pool
    • Tennis and pickleball courts
    • Fitness center
    • Clubhouse restaurant
    • Shared golf-course scenery and natural landscaping
    Golf-course views and surrounding natural landscaping serve as shared community assets for all Achasta homeowners.

    If you are researching how much homes in Achasta cost , note that property values reflect both course proximity and shared neighborhood amenities.

    Community Aspect Golf Members Non-Golfing Homeowners
    Primary Course Access Jack Nicklaus Signature Course play Scenic mountain views and river landscapes
    Clubhouse & Amenities Full access to golf facilities and dining Pool, tennis, pickleball, fitness center, and restaurant
    Buyer Verification Confirm membership transfer, fees, and waitlist Confirm HOA fee structures and community rules

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do you need to golf to live in Achasta?

    No. You do not need to golf to enjoy Achasta. The community features a pool, tennis and pickleball courts, fitness center, clubhouse restaurant, and shared scenic views. Confirm amenity access structures and current fees with the HOA or a local agent.

    Does a golf membership automatically transfer when buying a home?

    Membership structures have evolved over time. Before purchasing, confirm with the seller and the club whether a golf membership transfers, what fees are involved, and whether a waitlist exists.

    Who designed the Achasta golf course and when did it open?

    The course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in the early 2000s, featuring North Georgia foothill elevation changes and Etowah River crossings.

    Questions about Achasta real estate or golf membership?

    Connect with our local market experts to discuss current listings and community details.

    Search North Georgia homes with Gold Peach Realty

    or call (770) 283-1223

  • Achasta vs. Other North Georgia Golf Communities: Which Is Right for You?

    Achasta vs. Other North Georgia Golf Communities: Which Is Right for You?

    Quick answer (TL;DR)

    Achasta stands out among North Georgia gated golf communities due to its genuine Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course design, prime Dahlonega location near wine country, active social calendar with an established HOA, and price points that remain accessible compared to metro Atlanta options. Choosing the right community depends on course pedigree, local setting, and amenity preferences.

    North Georgia features several gated golf communities, each offering a distinct personality, price range, and location for home buyers.

    Jack Nicklaus Signature design
    Dahlonega Wine-country setting
    Established HOA Active social calendar
    Accessible Competitive price points
    A pristine golf green hugging a rushing mountain river, framed by dense pine forests and rolling blue ridges in the autumn light
    A pristine golf green hugging a rushing mountain river, framed by dense pine forests and rolling blue ridges in the autumn light

    What Makes Achasta Stand Out

    Achasta offers several key differentiators that set it apart from other gated golf communities in North Georgia:

    • A genuine Jack Nicklaus Signature course design, rather than a budget or developer-designed course. Learn more in our Achasta Golf Club homeowners guide .
    • A Dahlonega location with close adjacency to local wine country.
    • A strong community identity supported by an established HOA and an active social calendar.
    • Price points that remain accessible compared to coastal or metro Atlanta golf communities.

    For more details on custom mountain architecture in the neighborhood, see The Architecture of Achasta: Custom Luxury Mountain Homes in North Georgia .

    HOA Financial Due Diligence

    When evaluating any golf community, always request and review multi-year HOA financials to confirm fiscal stability and planned reserve funding.

    Comparing North Georgia Golf Options

    If you are comparing options across the region, evaluating core lifestyle elements helps narrow your decision:

    Feature Achasta Broader Market Options
    Golf Pedigree Jack Nicklaus Signature design Developer-designed courses
    Location Dahlonega wine-country setting Communities nearer to I-985 or Gainesville
    Amenities Clubhouse, pool, and tennis Varies (more or fewer amenities)
    Whether Achasta is right for you depends on how much you value the golf pedigree, Dahlonega’s lifestyle, and the specific community feel.
    Quick answer: Selecting a lot setting

    Choosing the right property within a community is as important as picking the community itself. Home buyers often balance golf course frontage against riverfront options.

    To help determine which location type fits your lifestyle best, review our guide on choosing between golf-front and riverside homes in Achasta .

    Value Comparison Tip

    Carefully compare home finishes, lot sizes, and price-per-foot metrics across communities to assess overall property value.

    Working with Local Market Experts

    Gold Peach Realty covers the full North Georgia market and can help you compare communities objectively based on your individual priorities. To learn more about governance and community life, consult our Achasta HOA guide for buyers .

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What makes Achasta stand out from other North Georgia golf communities?

    Achasta features a genuine Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, a Dahlonega location with wine-country adjacency, an established HOA with an active social calendar, and accessible price points compared to metro Atlanta options.

    What amenities does Achasta offer to residents?

    Achasta features a community clubhouse, swimming pool, and tennis courts alongside its championship golf course.

    Find Your North Georgia Home

    Compare local golf communities with trusted area experts.

    Search North Georgia homes with Gold Peach Realty

    or call (770) 283-1223

Looking for homes in North Georgia? Visit Gold Peach Realty at goldpeachrealty.com — your local experts in Dahlonega, Gainesville, and the surrounding mountain communities. Call (770) 283-1223.