Terms and Conditions

Last Updated: June 25, 2025

GENERAL RULES

1. 1. Trail Connection:
      All submissions must relate to trails in some way. This theme is open to creative interpretation. Topics may include — but are not limited to — adventure stories, trail-based activities, histories of trails, trail building or stewardship, trail communities and economies, wildlife and ecosystems along trails, journeys of healing or renewal, pilgrimage paths, and climate or conservation issues.

       

   2. Language & Subtitles:
      Films from all countries and in any language are welcome. All entries must include English subtitles, provided as a separate SRT file (not burned in), to enable further translation and accessibility. Questions? Contact us at info@trails.film.

       

   3. Entry Eligibility:
      There are no restrictions based on filmmaker experience, production budget, distribution history, or professional status. We welcome a wide range of projects that align with the values and mission of Trails Film.
      
      
   4. Prize Eligibility:
      To be eligible for awards or cash prizes, films must have been completed on or after January 1, 2024.

CATEGORIES

Feature: 40:00 minutes and longer

Short Feature: 10:00 to 39:59 minutes

Short: 1:01 to 9:59 minutes

Micro: 1:00 minute or less

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Note: If you have unique needs or exhibition restrictions not covered in these terms, please reach out to us before submitting: info@trails.film. We’ll do our best to accommodate.

By submitting your film to Trails Film, you agree to the following:

1. Agreement Scope:
   This agreement is between you (the filmmaker or legal rights-holder) and the World Trails Film Festival (Trails Film), based in the United States of America.

    

2. License Grant:
   If selected, you grant Trails Film a perpetual, non-exclusive, worldwide license to screen your film at official Trails Film events, including our main festival and traveling tour, and to use excerpts or stills in promotional and educational contexts.

    

3. Promotional Use:
   You authorize Trails Film to use film clips, trailers, stills, and descriptive text for use in promotional materials (digital and print), websites, newsletters, social media, and related communications.

    

4. Compensation & Fees:
   No screening fees or additional compensation are required. However, Trails Film may provide honoraria or stipends for selected screenings, at its discretion.

    

5. Rights & Clearances:
   You confirm that all content in your film — including music, visuals, images, and third-party materials — is either original or used with proper written permission. You retain all necessary rights to submit the film and grant the licenses above.

    

6. Copyright Indemnification:
   You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Trails Film from any copyright claims or legal disputes arising from your submission, and will cover any associated costs of defense should infringement claims occur.

    

7. Appearance Consent:
   You confirm that all identifiable individuals in your film have granted informed consent for their likeness or performance to be used in your work, including in promotional contexts related to the festival.

    

8. General Liability Release:
   You release Trails Film from any and all claims, including those related to libel, invasion of privacy, misrepresentation, or infringement of personal or publicity rights arising from your film’s submission or screening.

    

9. Entry Fees:
   All submission fees are non-refundable, regardless of selection status.

    

10. Right to Refuse or Withdraw:
    Trails Film reserves the right to decline any submission or withdraw acceptance at any time, for any reason.
    
    
11. Confirmation:
    By submitting, you confirm that you’ve read, understood, and agreed to these terms, and that all information provided in your application is accurate.