Picture Perfect: Check Out These Gorgeous Trail Photos from Our 2016 #OptOutside

In celebration of REI’s campaign to #OptOutside on Black Friday, Nov. 25, we asked you to share how you spend time outdoors and on the trail through our “I Support Trails!” Photo Contest.
We were completely blown away by the positive response.
More than 6 million people chose to #OptOutside this year, and in just two weeks, we received hundreds of incredible submissions from more than 30 states and 90 trails. The photos ranged from funny to breathtaking—from the developing Three Creeks Trail in California to the iconic Mount Vernon Trail in Virginia—and a lot in between. Thankfully—our awesome trail community—you!—helped us choose a winner …
Congratulations to winner Kim Horgan, who submitted the beautiful photo to the right of Missouri’s Katy Trail State Park! In addition to being an ace photographer, Kim is also a huge trail lover. When asked why she supports trails, Kim answered, "I love riding car free on the trails; it's beautiful, relaxing and a great way to clear your head and just enjoy the day … I use them regularly and think they are a wonderful way to get exercise.”
We think that’s a picture perfect reason to love and support trails, don’t you? There were tons of other fantastic submissions, and we want to thank everyone who participated—and all those who make a difference for trails every day.
To show our appreciation, we created this uplifting video that features many of the photo entries from all across the country for you to enjoy!
And if Kim’s dazzling photo got you hankering for more of the Katy Trail, you might want to check out our Fall 2016 cover story in Rails to Trails magazine, “Pathway to Prosperity,” which provides a great overview of the trail and its highlights, and includes some eye-popping images. Check it out!