In 2023, more than 300 hikers of all ages and abilities took to the trails with friends, families and pets to participate in a “First Hike” sensation that is sweeping the county! The Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation are gearing up for another fantastic First Hike Photo Contest set for New Year’s Day 2024.

It’s easy to participate.

• Step 1: Take a stroll through any of the Park Authority’s 420 parks or along more than 334 miles of Park Authority trails on Monday, Jan. 1, 2024.
• Step 2: Take a fantastic photo.
• Step 3: Submit your best photo online by noon on Tuesday, Jan. 2, for the chance of winning amazing Park Authority prizes.

The contest is open to amateur and professional photographers. Only one photo entry per person will be accepted (multiple family members may submit photos individually). Photo submissions are accepted in four categories – Scenery/Landscapes, People, Wildlife and Pets. Participants must adhere to all park rules and safety protocols; photos depicting violations of park rules will be disqualified. Complete contest rules, photo submission instructions and a variety of hike-planning resources are available on the First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest website.

The Fairfax County Park Foundation has again sponsored the following prizes for selected winners:

• People’s Choice: $100 Park Authority Gift Card
• Judges’ Choice: $100 Park Authority Gift Card
• 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

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Watch last year's slideshow below:

The contest joins countless First Day Hike programs throughout America’s state parks and is open to hikers and photographers of any age and skill level. It’s a wonderful way of getting outside and enjoying the new year with friends, neighbors and family.

The Fairfax County Park Foundation Supports the Park Authority by raising private funds, obtaining grants and creating partnerships that supplement tax dollars to meet community needs for park land, facilities and services. For more information, visit the Fairfax County Park Foundation website.