Cheryl Strayed
Cheryl is the narrator and protagonist of the memoir. She hikes the Pacific Crest Trail, in order to come to a new understanding of herself in the wake of her mother's death (among other hardships).
Barbara (Bobbi)
Barbara is Cheryl’s mother, who dies abruptly of lung cancer at the age of 45. She has a very important role in her daughter's life, both before and after her death.
Paul
Paul is Cheryl’s ex-husband. He is a very good and kind person who cares about Cheryl even after their divorce. He tries to save Cheryl from her drug addiction in every possible way. Nevertheless, Cheryl and Paul get a divorce, but they remain very good friends.
Eddie
Eddie is Barbara’s husband and Cheryl’s stepfather. He is very loving during Barbara's lifetime, but after the death of his wife, Eddie abandons Cheryl and her siblings.
Joe
Joe is Cheryl’s lover. They live together in Portland for a while. He introduces her to heroin, since he is also a drug user, and their relationship leads to Cheryl's unplanned pregnancy.
Lisa
Lisa is Cheryl’s best friend in Portland. Despite all Cheryl’s problems, Lisa tries to support and help Cheryl. She also sends parcels and letters for Cheryl during her hike.
Leif
Leif is Cheryl’s brother. His grief drives him away during Bobbi's illness, but after Bobbi's death, Cheryl and Leif begin to support and take care of each other.
Karen
Karen is Cheryl's sister and the third sibling of Bobbi's children. She does not play a significant role in the memoir.
