Jen Coombes

I dream of exploring Glacier National Park for its stunning glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged mountains. The park’s diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes offer endless opportunities for photography and hiking. Capturing the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road and witnessing the park’s wildlife in their natural habitat would be a dream come true. It would be an unforgettable adventure to experience its wild beauty and capture it through my lens.

Backpacking the Four Pass Loop in the Aspen-Snowmass Wilderness has been my favorite adventure. We spent four days and three nights trekking the 27-mile loop counter-clockwise, starting at Maroon Lake. The challenging passes, vibrant wildflowers, and amazing dark skies made for an unforgettable experience. While shooting the milky way, we saw the brightest fireball meteor I've ever seen. The sense of accomplishment and connection with nature was truly unparalleled.

With $10,000, I would prioritize bucket list adventures, emphasizing the need to seize the moment due to my chronic illness. I plan to explore more national parks, immerse myself in different landscapes, and capture breathtaking scenery to share and inspire others. This journey would also allow me to raise awareness about living life fully despite health challenges. Additionally, I would use part of the money to organize workshops to inspire and empower women in outdoor photography.