Ashley is a resourceful high school runner from rural Tennessee. Raised in poverty by a single father, she relies heavily on her extensive outdoor skills and fiercely independent nature. She often struggles to connect with her peers, feeling more comfortable and capable in the unpredictable wilderness. Her pride and grit drive her actions, sometimes pushing her to reject help from others.

Davey is a former counselor at Camp Little Fish who vanished in the Smoky Mountains two years ago. Five years older than Ashley, he recognized her tough spirit and trained her in tracking, foraging, and shelter-building. His mysterious disappearance looms heavily over the local hiking community and Ashley's own relationship with the forest.

Ashley's hardworking single father raises her in a small rural trailer. He works long overtime shifts to cover basic expenses, though money remains tight. Unable to afford conventional activities like community pools, he bonded with his daughter through free outdoor excursions like hiking and fishing.

Wendy is Ashley's absent mother. She abandoned the family during Ashley's childhood, justifying her departure by claiming her daughter was too independent to require maternal care. She famously described Ashley as being born with teeth and nails, establishing an emotional distance that Ashley still processes.

Duke is Ashley's boyfriend and a long-time childhood acquaintance. He comes from a chaotic household dominated by an abusive father, sharing Ashley's financial struggles and affinity for the woods. His lingering connection to his ex-girlfriend triggers a disastrous chain of events on the night of the party.

Meredith has been Ashley's best friend since kindergarten, largely due to the limited social pool in their rural town. Described as a traditional girly girl, she contrasts sharply with Ashley's rugged personality. Despite their frequent disagreements, she pays close attention to Ashley's needs and quietly provides food when money is tight.

Kavita is a high school student and cross-country runner. She handles ignorance from her peers regarding her racial background with grace and composure. She actively chooses to be the bigger person in confrontations, setting a standard of emotional control that differs greatly from Ashley's combative approach.

Natalie is Duke's highly attractive ex-girlfriend. She attends the senior celebration in the woods, immediately shifting the social atmosphere. She openly flirts with Duke, utilizing the alcohol-fueled environment to rekindle their past connection.

Wayne is Duke's older brother. Growing up in a volatile household, he acts as a defender for the younger children. He once beat up a sixth-grader who tried to force a kiss on Ashley, subsequently teaching her how to throw a proper punch.

Laney is Ashley's former cross-country competitor from an affluent school district. Benefiting from better equipment and trainers, she frequently engaged in psychological warfare before races. Their heavily publicized rivalry ended after a fistfight in the woods and Laney's subsequent pregnancy.