Northwest Exposure Photo Contest

Enter WTA's Northwest Exposure Photo Contest, Washington Trails Association's annual celebration of outdoor photography and the community of hikers that explore Washington's trails.

Northwest Exposure is WTA's annual photo contest that celebrates outdoor photography and the community of hikers that explore Washington's trails. The contest is now open until Oct. 6. Enter today!

Enter the photo contest

Contest Information

Benefits of entering

Winners earn prizes and will be featured in WTA's annual calendar. All photos entered have the opportunity to be featured in Washington Trails Magazine, on WTA's website and social media, and on the big screen at Benaroya Hall as part of our 2026 concert in partnership with the Northwest Symphony Orchestra.

Contest Categories

Northwest Exposure features four main categories with first, second and third prizes awarded in each category. One winner will be selected from each of our two bonus categories. A grand prize will also be awarded for the best overall photo.

We welcome and encourage photographers of all experience levels to enter our contest.

Main categories

Each photographer may submit up to five photos per category.

Trailscapes: Show us the stunning landscapes from your winter, spring, summer or fall hikes and the trails that brought you there.
Hikers in Action: In camp or on trail, capture the wide range of activities, adventures and emotions you and fellow hikers experience on trail.
Trail Family: Show us the faces of the people you love to hike with, whether they're given or chosen family.
Flora and Fauna: Wildflowers, woods and creatures of all sizes. This category is judged in part by public voting.

Bonus categories

Each photographer may submit unlimited photos to each bonus category.

Instagram: Show us your favorite photos from the trail! To enter, follow @washingtontrails and use the hashtag #nwexposure2025.
Random Acts of Kindness: This year we want to see the kindness you witness, give or receive on trail. We find in trying times, the more you look for the good, the more often you’re able to see it. We can’t wait to see the love you share and spread on the trail!
- Here are a few ideas for inspiration:
  - Picking up litter
  - Thanking a park ranger
  - Reaching out to a loved one you haven’t seen in a while to go for a hike
  - Offering a helping hand to someone on trail
  - Sharing snacks, sunscreen or a water filter with a fellow hiker