The unnamed newcomer is hiking alone toward Henderson Creek during the Klondike gold rush. He is observant of immediate physical details, like the thickness of the ice and the temperature, but entirely lacks imagination regarding the broader dangers of his environment. Arrogant about his survival skills, he chews tobacco and pushes forward through the extreme cold with a false sense of invincibility.

A large gray-coated native husky that closely resembles its wild wolf ancestors. Guided entirely by natural instinct rather than human reason, the animal innately understands the severe danger of the current temperature. It travels with the man solely because it expects him to provide fire and food.

An experienced Klondike resident who possesses a healthy respect for the harsh, unforgiving nature of the wilderness. He lays down strict rules for survival, specifically warning newcomers against traveling alone when temperatures drop below negative fifty degrees.

A group of fellow prospectors stationed at the camp on Henderson Creek. They represent the safety, warmth, and civilization the protagonist strives to reach before nightfall. They are expected to have a fire going and a hot supper ready by six o'clock.