Types of people you meet on the Appalachian Trail (who are not trees)

Appalachian Trail Hikers & Archetypes

An essay by Rusty Foster categorizing the various types of people encountered while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail.

NoBos (Northbound Hikers)

Serious, fast-paced hikers completing the final 100 miles of their journey in July, wearing fluttering technical fabrics and traveling either alone or in tightly knit "tramilies".

Doodlebugs

Teens from Maine summer camps equipped with massive packs, divided into chatty, feral "Alphas" (ages 11–14) and high-jinks-prone "Bros" (ages 15–16).

Section Hikers and Locals

Hikers tackling the trail gradually in pieces or undertaking the 100-Mile Wilderness challenge, often distinguished by carrying the largest packs on the trail.

Normies

Casual day-hikers found near road-accessible parking lots who wear cotton clothes, smell strongly of deodorant and perfume, and eye thru-hikers warily.

Trail Cops

Rare, unsolicited lecturers who insist on policing trail etiquette, right-of-way rules, and how others enjoy nature.

SoBos (Southbound Hikers)

Less common southbound hikers consisting of "flip-floppers," Western "Triple Crowners," and actual beginners like the author.