Essential reading for all hikers is A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail, by Bill Bryson.
It’s the hilarious, somewhat fictionalized recounting of a failed attempt on the AT. Everyone loves Bryson’s buddy, the anti-hiker Katz (Matt Angerer).
Without question the immense popularity of Bryson brought thru-hiking to the attention of the world and even increased numbers on the AT.
There’s been a bit of buzz about a movie:
In 2005 Robert Redford announced that he was interested in adapting Bryson’s book into a film, and in playing Bryson himself. He also hoped that his erstwhile co-star and friend, Paul Newman, would team up with him to play the role of Katz, although he jokingly expressed doubt as to whether the health-conscious Newman would consider putting on enough weight (and eating enough donuts) to accurately portray the rotund Katz.
Personally, I would cast John Hodgeman as Bryson, and Jack Black as Katz.
besthike.com 
MUCH better casting.
A great idea for a movie, maybe with some narration by ‘the mountain man’ Bryson, along with regular dialogue. Jack Black would be perfect for Katz! But is John Hodgeman an actor also? And both should be a little bit plump at first, no? Just read it on recent plane trip, and am now Bryson (and Katz/Angerer) fan. Loved it !Must read more Bill Bryson !