Meet the Athletes Behind ‘Slope Ascenders’: A Story of Grit and Spontaneity
In the world of adventure films, the most compelling stories often belong to the athletes themselves. This is certainly the case in Black Diamond's new film, "Slope Ascenders," which puts the spotlight on Dorian Densmore and Mya Akins, two athletes whose season of planned objectives was turned upside down by warm weather and injuries. Their response? Pure improvisation.
Dorian Densmore and Mya Akins are not your typical sponsored athletes. They are creators and storytellers who thrive on managing every single aspect of their projects, from the initial brainstorming of an expedition to the final cut of the film. This hands-on, do-it-yourself approach gives their work a raw authenticity, but it also means they feel the full impact when things don't go according to plan.
"Slope Ascenders" captures their journey as they are forced to abandon their primary goals. Instead of admitting defeat, they find opportunity. The film follows them from the would-be grand lines of Alaska to the hidden gems in their own backyard, showcasing their creative problem-solving and unwavering passion for being in the mountains. It's a personal and inspiring look at how they find adventure in the unexpected.
Their story is a powerful testament to resilience and making the most of any situation. Densmore and Akins prove that the best adventures aren't always about ticking off a list, but about embracing the process—no matter where it leads.
Ready to see their story unfold? Watch the full film below.