This photo was taken near the peak of the Sleeping Beauty Trail in Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off the north coast of British Columbia, Canada. The full day hike on Mt. Genevieve was exceedingly difficult, but the breathtaking views of the alpine lake and waters wrapping around the islands were well worth it. This photo is special to me not only because it captures the beauty that surrounded us along our journey, but also because it shows my mom and close friend climbing up the steep slope. My mom, who is terrified of heights, declined the option of staying down by the lake while we made the final ascent, saying “I just couldn’t stand the thought of you two coming down talking about how amazing it was!” Although she was petrified the whole time, she still thinks it was worth it. I was so proud!