Northwest Exposure Photo Contest is now open, and we’re stoked to see your incredible photos. Whether you're a seasoned pro or love snapping memories on your phone, we (everyone at WTA and our judging panel) can’t wait to see your entries by October 12.
New: SnapShot giveaways
This year, there’s a new way to win prizes and get featured on social media: SnapShot! To enter, submit photos to the contest that match the weekly themes below along with the corresponding hashtag. Randomly selected weekly winners will be announced on Instagram.
Aug. 17– 23: #Campground
Aug. 31–Sept. 6: #Desert
Sept. 14–20: #SouthernWA (South of Highway 12)
Sept. 28–Oct. 4: #SmilesandTrails
Contest categories:
Trailscapes: Landscapes and the trails that get you there.
Hikers in Action: The wide range of adventures and emotions on trail.
Trail Family: Moments with your hiking family, given or chosen (hint: we love to see faces!)
Flora & Fauna: Any living beings, from wildlife to wildflowers.
Bonus categories:
Film: Share film photos from Washington trails. Photos can be recent or from anytime in the past. WTA is celebrating our 60th anniversary, so this is the perfect chance to dust off “vintage” film photos from WTA work parties, backcountry adventures and more.
Instagram: Post a picture on Instagram with #nwexposure2026 in the caption and follow @washingtontrails to enter.
Why enter Northwest Exposure?
Get featured: Winners are featured in our annual calendar.
Exposure and bragging rights: All entries can appear in Washington Trails magazine, on our website, social media and more.
The big screen: Our collaborative concert with the Northwest Symphony Orchestra returns to Benaroya Hall this spring. All contest entries have a chance to be featured onstage during the performance!
Prizes: Gear, gift cards and more, brought to you by our generous sponsors.
Make a difference: Your photos help WTA tell stories about public lands and why they matter.
Your photos do more than just win prizes — they help WTA protect public lands and inspire others to get outside. We can’t wait to see what you share with us.
P.S. Looking for inspiration ? Check out our Photography Resources. Have a question? Read our FAQs or feel free to reach out to me directly.