21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Balancing Act

Despite being a rock climber myself, highlining has never held an interest for me to do as an activity. Watching a group of highliners traverse their line on Crowders Mountain did however fill me with a profound sense of awe. Vultures and other birds circled the peak of the mountain while they paused, perched in perfect balance, the skyline of Charlotte and civilization set far behind them against the horizon.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: North Carolina, United States of America
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel SL2
Copyright: © Caroline Vining