(HARTFORD, CT) – Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz and Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes announced today that several Connecticut State Parks will host free outdoor events this weekend. It’s all part of the Connecticut Forest & Park Association’s trails weekend, which runs from June 1 to June 2.
“Connecticut has some of the most beautiful parks, trails, and beaches in the northeastern region. I encourage everyone to grab a friend or family member and take advantage of the free events happening across the state this weekend in celebration of National Trails Day” said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. “This is also a great chance to remind Connecticut residents that thanks to the Passport to Parks program, entrance to all state parks and beaches is free for those entering in Connecticut-registered vehicles.”
Earlier today, Lt. Governor Bysiewicz and Commissioner Dykes joined Governor Ned Lamont and Secretary of the State Denise Merrill at Bushnell Park in Hartford to encourage Connecticut residents to participate in CT Trails weekend (see video).
Commissioner Dykes said, “We’re looking forward to a CT Trails Day weekend that will be bigger and better than ever, with over 250 events around the state. Easy public access to our parks, forests, and conservation land is an important part of our quality of life, and we are always pushing to preserve and expand these opportunities.”
All CT Trails Day events are free, open to all, and guided by people who are knowledgeable about each site. Events include hiking, biking, horseback riding, running, trail maintenance, kayaking, educational walks, bird watching, letterboxing, geocaching, and more for people of all ages and interests. A full listing of all events, organized by town, activity and interest, can be found online at www.ctwoodlands.org/TD2019DIR or in the Connecticut Trails Day booklet available at town/city halls, nature centers, state parks, outdoor retailers, public libraries, and at CFPA’s headquarters located at 16 Meriden Road (Route 66) in the Rockfall section of Middlefield.
"This weekend there will be more than 250 events across Connecticut where people can get outdoors to hike, bike, paddle, and learn about the many gems we have throughout our beautiful state,” said Eric Hammerling, Executive Director of the Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA). “CT Trails Weekend is a national event, and we’re thrilled that once again Connecticut will have more events than any other state in the nation. Join us!”
The Connecticut Trails Day celebration is part of National Trails Day® (NTD), a nationwide hiking initiative established by the American Hiking Society in 1993. Trails Day encourages the public and outdoor enthusiasts nationwide to seek out their favorite trails while participating in numerous events held in each state. This tradition has become a way for people of all walks of life to come together and truly appreciate the natural gifts across the state.
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