A childhood friend of Bryson's from Iowa, who accompanies him on the Appalachian Trail despite their having had little contact for many years.

A camping and hiking expert based in Hanover, New Hampshire, who helps Bryson prepare for his Appalachian Trail hike by advising him on gear and equipment.

A visionary who originally developed the concept for the Appalachian Trail in 1921 as a connected network for mountaintop camps, intended to provide a retreat for urban workers.

A shuttle service operator who transports hikers from Atlanta to the starting point of the Appalachian Trail, using his experience to gauge their likelihood of completing the hike.

A hiker from Florida who temporarily joins Bryson and Katz on the trail, becoming a notable presence due to her outspoken and know-it-all demeanor.

A section hiker and high school teacher from upstate New York, who briefly accompanies Bryson and Katz before returning to his parked car.

A long-distance hiker in the Berkshire Hills known for frequently getting lost, whose encounters with Bryson highlight the unpredictable nature of the trail.

Bryson's friend and neighbor in New Hampshire, who accompanies him on several day hikes, appreciated for both his trail experience and his profession as an orthopedic surgeon.

The proprietor of a boarding house in Milo, Maine, who offers warmth and hospitality to Bryson and Katz at the end of their challenging journey.