5 Questions With The October 2024 #DryTortugas Photo Contest Winner

Meet Kristen Wilson, our October 2024 #DryTortugas Photo Contest winner. We had the chance to ask her a few questions about her experience at the Dry Tortugas National Park. Read on to learn how she captured her amazing photo!

1. When did you visit the Dry Tortugas National Park? Did you arrive by seaplane, the Yankee Freedom ferry, or another way?
I visited July 15, 2024-via Yankee Freedom. 

2. If you arrived by the Yankee Freedom, how was your ferry trip?
My trip on the table freedom was just as wonderful as visiting Dry Tortugas, itself. The staff was very friendly, the captain very communicative, the vessel clean. 

3. How did you capture your winning photo? What inspired you to take it? Did you use any cool camera gear?
The day had brought many small systems that skirted the key: one in particular, brought heavy winds. After less than five minutes of the gusty winds, the sky cleared, giving great lighting to expose the beautiful waters and lines of the fort and moat. I rushed down to the beach, from the safety in the fort, hopeful the lighting was as I imagined…. And it was everything! 

4. What made your trip to the Dry Tortugas memorable?
As with most of my adventures, I tend to reflect on what was most special about each trip, and it always comes back to the people. My trip along the Yankee Freedom and my time within Dry Tortugas was no different. The staff on the Yankee Freedom were outstanding, and I truly loved the Ranger guided tour at the park. So much was learned that would have otherwise been missed! 

5. What do you plan to do with your National Park Annual Pass?
I already have an annual park pass, as I visit 1-3 national parks each year-With my living just 1.5 hrs from Shenandoah and love of hiking, an annual pass is a must!