The amazingly popular First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest returns for 2026! Grab your coats and cameras and join the fun on New Year’s Day along more than 334 miles of Park Authority trails.
Participation is simple. Visit any FCPA trail on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Take a photo to commemorate the experience and submit it online before Noon on Friday, January 2. The photo submission link will be posted here by 7 a.m. on January 1, 2026.
Win prizes in one of the following seven categories; prizes are sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation:
- People’s Choice: $100 Park Authority Gift Card or 25-visit FCPA Rec Center Discount Fast Pass (valued at $175)
- Judges’ Choice: $100 Park Authority Gift Card or 25-visit FCPA Rec Center Discount Fast Pass (valued at $175)
- Director’s Choice: $100 Park Authority Gift Card
- Best in Show (Scenery/Landscapes): $75 Park Authority Gift Card
- Best in Show (People): $75 Park Authority Gift Card
- Best in Show (Wildlife): $75 Park Authority Gift Card
- Best in Show (Pets): $75 Park Authority Gift Card
