Local Trail Angel

By Scott Petersen
The month of March marks the beginning of hiking season in Georgia. Each year, thousands of hikers from various backgrounds and skill sets converge on North Georgia to begin the long trek towards Maine along the Appalachian Trail. Whether attempting a thru-hike or section-hike, both seasoned pros as well as beginners are likely to encounter complications. As outlined by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, both methods come with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Scott Petersen, a registered nurse who resides in the Porch Press area, addresses the need for rural nursing, focusing on the treatment of the most common ailments plaguing hikers. Commonly referred to as a “trail angel,” Petersen has a long positive history assisting hikers with complications which otherwise would lead to an early termination of a hike across America. Petersen offers comprehensive nursing care to hikers who acquire friction burns, blisters, minor muscular strains, and upper respiratory tract infections, as well as assessment in cases of coughs or other issues, flu, or any complications arising from the journey. Hikers are assisted on a sliding scale basis. More serious complications are referred to local county hospital emergency rooms.
In addition to practicing rural nursing, Petersen leads tours across Atlanta and Georgia, offering a unique opportunity to explore off the beaten path trails featuring historic landmarks and concentrations of wildlife.