Start 2026 on the right foot with the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation’s annual First Hike Photo Contest! Community members of all ages and abilities are invited to join the fun and explore the beauty of Fairfax County parks.
How To Participate:
- Take a Hike. Enjoy a stroll through any of the Park Authority’s 420 parks or along more than 334 miles of trails on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.
- Capture the Moment. Snap a fantastic photo during your adventure.
- Submit Your Best Shot. Upload your photo online by noon on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, for a chance to win great prizes!
Join a nationwide First Day Hike tradition and kick off your year with an adventure! Whether you’re an experienced hiker or stepping onto the trail for the first time, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with family, friends and neighbors. This family-friendly community activity is open to photographers of all levels.
Each participant may submit one photo in one of the following categories:
- Scenery/Landscapes
- People
- Wildlife
- Pets
Multiple family members may participate individually. Please remember to follow all park rules and safety protocols. Photos depicting rule violations will be disqualified.
The following prizes are sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation:
- 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
Complete contest rules, submission instructions, and hike-planning resources can be found on the First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest website.
Hit the trails, capture the moment, and start the new year with a win!
For questions about the First Hike Photo Contest, contact the Park Authority Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.
About Fairfax County Park Authority
Fairfax County Park Authority enriches the quality of life for all members of the community through an enduring park system that provides a healthy environment, preserves natural and cultural heritage, offers inspiring recreational experiences and promotes healthy lifestyles. Learn more by visiting the Park Authority website.