It’s time to go on a quest
SEAN D. ELLIOT/THE DAY
The Thames River Heritage Park, in collaboration with Connecticut Sea Grant, will host Connecticut’s first ever Quest Day this Saturday — a self-guided treasure hunt-style educational hike organized in recognition of Connecticut Trails Day. Featuring three separate “hikes” (you can do one, or all three), quest hunts will take place at Groton’s Fort Griswold Battlefield Park, New London’s Fort Trumbull State Park and New London’s Waterfront Park. Besides being able to climb up and down Fort Griswold’s steep hills or wander through Fort Trumbull’s parapets, particpants will get an added educational aspect with the hikes. Quest puzzles incorporate clues that focus on local history and maritime ecology, creating a learning opportunity that is both informative and fun.
An added benefit? The Thames River Water Taxi will be shuttling participants to and from the three participating parks. Hop on the taxi in New London, and you’ll be brought to the front steps of Fort Griswold. Finish that hike and go take lunch on Thames Street. Or vice versa. The taxi will run free of charge between 10 a.m. and noon — benefitting families that plan ahead. Otherwise, the taxi will run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., allowing added time to explore the surrounding areas. A roundtrip ticket on the Taxi costs $5 for children and military members, $10 for adults. Children aged 3 and younger ride free.
Those interested are asked to register for the event on www.thamesriverheritagepark.org. Quest maps for all three parks will be available in PDF format June 1 and will stay on the website throughout the summer for those unable to participate Saturday.