Press Releases
04/16/2026
DEEP Announces 2026 Sky’s the Limit Hiking and Walking Challenge: “America’s 250th”
(HARTFORD) — Looking for a new outdoor adventure this year or want to learn more about American history in your local State Park or Forest? Mark your calendars — the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP)’s 2026 Sky’s the Limit Hiking and Walking Challenge will officially begin on April 16, 2026! Whether you choose to hike on your own, with family and friends, or bring your leashed pet along for the journey, this annual challenge is the perfect way to get your steps in, discover stories of the past, and connect with your community through a new lens!
This self-guided challenge encourages participants to explore 20 designated locations across the state, capturing specific photos along the journey. This year’s theme is “America’s 250th.” The theme was chosen as part of the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the foundational governing document of our nation. As part of this theme, the 20 locations have been selected for their cultural and historical significance.
This year’s challenge embraces the unique identities and contributions of many communities in Connecticut before, during, and after the Revolutionary War period. From Fort Trumbull State Park in Southeastern Connecticut to Mount Tom State Park in the western region of the state, from castles to museums and beaches, opportunities abound for Connecticut residents to learn about the significance of their local history and the shaping of our nation through State Parks and Forests. Check out the Sky’s the Limit website for this year’s full list of historic hikes across the state.
“Connecticut played a significant role in the founding of our nation, and many of our State Parks are the very places where history unfolded, offering residents a direct connection to the people, events, and ideals that shaped our country,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Through this year’s Sky’s the Limit Challenge, we hope to encourage exploration of these special places, foster reflection on our shared history, and celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in a way that is educational, inclusive, and rooted in the unique stories right here in Connecticut.”
New this year, thanks to a grant from the Hearts of STIHL, the challenge will be utilizing a free, app-based program called Goosechase. The Goosechase App utilizes in-app features including missions, GPS coordinates, and trivia questions, which DEEP’s State Parks and Public Outreach Division will use to help put fun, interactive learning challenges directly into the public’s hands. To participate, simply download the Goosechase app and enter the Join Code: ZMUCP8
Complete details about the program, including instructions on how to download and use the Goosechase app, join the challenge, complete missions and earn points, are provided on the Sky’s the Limit website. Participants are also encouraged to follow the DEEP (@CTDEEP) and Connecticut State Parks (@CTStateParks) social media pages for updates.
About CT State Parks
Established in 1913, the mission of the Connecticut State Park System is to provide natural resource-based public recreational and educational opportunities through a system of state park and forest recreation areas, environmental centers, and nature centers that provide an understanding of, access to, and enjoyment of, the state’s historic, cultural, and natural resources. Connecticut has 110 state parks and 32 state forests attracting around 17 million visitors each year, generating over $1 billion in economic activity for the state and supporting 9,000 private sector jobs. Those driving Connecticut registered motor vehicles are provided free entrance to the parks thanks to the Passport to the Parks program. For more information on Connecticut State Parks visit: Connecticut State Parks and Forests (ctparks.com).
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Contact
DEEP Communications
DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110