MIDDLEFIELD, Conn. — Connecticut Trails Day will occur on June 1-2, continuing a yearly state tradition.
First launched by the Connecticut Forest & Park Association in 1993, the event occurs annually on the first weekend of June. According to the CFPA, which coordinates the gathering, it is the nation’s largest celebration of trails.
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“Protecting public access to the outdoors is what we are all about, and Trails Day is the biggest way we invite people to get outside each year,” Andy Bicking, executive director of the CFPA, said in a release on April 16.
Trails Day events are free, open to all and guided by individuals who are familiar with each site, according to the CFPA, which added that events include hiking, biking, horseback riding, running, trail maintenance, kayaking, family walks, educational outings, bird watching and more.
The events are designed for people of all ages, backgrounds and interests. A comprehensive list of events, organized by town and activity, can be found here.
In the release, Bicking noted that the state’s parks, trails and other special places are critical components of Connecticut’s identity and economy.
“Our goal is to raise awareness and engage as many people as possible on our trails to enjoy and appreciate what we have,” Bicking said. “When people connect to the land and have fun, they are more motivated to help keep special places open, well-maintained and available for everyone to enjoy.”
The CFPA credits the success of the large-scale effort, and the significant number and variety of Trails Day events, to the hike leaders who show the way, as well as “passionate partners, community organizations and our dedicated financial supporters,” according to the release.
Registration for Trails Day begins on May 8. To reserve a spot, one can visit the Trails Day website.
For more information, one can contact Connecticut Trails Day Coordinator Chuck Toal.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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