Colorado Country Life readers have done it again. For the 2026 annual photo contest, they sent us over 900 photos of jaw-dropping, awe-inspir-ing photos from all regions of the state, and we had the very challenging task of choosing winners. This year’s categories were Animals, People, Plants and Flowers, and Scenic Landscapes. The most popular category was Scenic Landscapes thanks to our gorgeous state, but animal photos were a close second. We hope you enjoy these photos as much as we did!
Cover winner: “Stocking Up” by Kristen Hayes, a Poudre Valley REAmember.
Animals
1st Place – “Flynn and a Full Moon” by Nichole Damian, a Morgan County REA member.2nd Place – “Five Pronghorn Bucks” by John Boland, a Sangre de Cristo Electric Association member.3rd place – “Rare Sighting, Bohemian Waxwing” by Kevin Fettig, a Poudre Valley REA member.
People
1st Place – “Contemplating the Ranch” by J.R. Schnelzer, a Poudre Valley REA member.2nd Place – “Winter Wagon” by Angela Martinez, a Mountain View Electric Association member.3rd Place – “Dancing” by Jim Lambert, a San Isabel Electric Association member.
Plants & Flowers
1st Place – “Wildflowers” by Jennifer Coombes, a Poudre Valley REA member.2nd Place – “Perfect Landing Spot” by Donnell Allen, a Mountain View Electric Association member.3rd Place – “Lily Pads” by Jim Lambert, a San Isabel Electric Association member.
Senic Landscapes
1st Place – “Parting Skies” by Heather Williamson, a Mountain View Electric Association member.2nd Place – “Chimney’s Fall” by Jason Fazio, a Mountain View Electric Association member.3rd Place – “Fall Reflections” by Bob Toepfer, a San Isabel Electric Association member.
Melinda Taylor is the editorial assistant for Colorado Country Life.
