Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Rocky Neck State Park is also closed until further notice due to a brush fire. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at a 'very high' or 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Winter Activities

SnowmobilingThere's no need to stay home when the weather turns cold - the fun continues all winter long!

Play it safe!  Before you venture out onto any frozen pond or lake to ski, snowshoe, snowmobile, or ice fish, follow these important guidelines for ice safety.
 

Cross Country Skiing (Ski Touring)

Many of our parks and forests offer excellent terrain and miles of trails for cross-country skiers.
Ski Touring Information

Downhill Skiing

Mohawk Mountain, a facility leased from the DEEP, is one of the State's most popular ski areas. Information concerning ski operations and conditions may be obtained by contacting Mohawk Ski Area.

Ice Skating

Stay warm on a cold winter’s day by gliding across a frozen pond at one of Connecticut’s State Parks.  Currently, only Osbornedale State Park in Derby has a designated area that is tested for safe ice. 

Snowmobiling

There are 11 designated areas within Connecticut State Forests where the use of snowmobiles on established trails and forest roads is authorized.
Snowmobiling Information

More Winter Fun!

Other popular activities include snowshoeing, ice boating, backpack camping, and dog sled racing.

If you have questions or need additional information on Connecticut State Parks and Forests, please contact the State Parks Division by e-mail at deep.stateparks@ct.gov or by phone at 860-424-3200.

Content last updated October 2023