Planning · 2026
Planning Begins for Summer 2027
The Crew kicks off route research, safety planning, and community outreach.
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August 14, 2027 · Enfield to Middletown
Connecticut
River Challenge
35 Miles · Two Checkpoints · One Unforgettable Journey
Join Venture Crew 261 as we prepare to paddle approximately 35 miles down the Connecticut River from Enfield to Middletown. Together, we're turning adventure into an opportunity to support youth leadership, outdoor experiences, equipment, and community service.
Where we are
The Journey Has Begun
The Connecticut River Challenge is currently in the planning and development stage. Venture Crew 261 is working to confirm the route, checkpoints, safety plan, sponsors, volunteers, finish location, and event schedule.
Planning
In Progress
Route research, event approvals, safety planning, and logistics.
Fundraising
Now Open
Support Venture Crew 261 as we prepare for the Connecticut River Challenge. Donations help fund outdoor adventures, equipment, leadership training, transportation, and community service.
Event Date
August 14, 2027
Saturday, August 14, 2027 · Rain date Sunday, August 15, 2027.
Countdown to Challenge Day
August 14,2027
Saturday, August 14, 2027 · Rain date Sunday, August 15, 2027.
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Fundraising
Help Us Reach Our Goal
Funds raised through the Connecticut River Challenge will support Venture Crew 261's outdoor adventures, equipment, leadership development, training, and community service opportunities.
$0
Raised
$7,500
Goal
0% completed0 supporters
Fundraising opens soon.Last updated —
Our Community Impact
More Than 35 Miles
The Connecticut River Challenge is about leadership, conservation, community service, and preparing the next generation of leaders — not just paddling 35 miles. Every training paddle, cleanup, and service project builds young people who show up for their community long after the canoes come off the water.
The event at a glance
Adventure by the Numbers
~35 Miles
A long-distance paddle on the Connecticut River.
Two Checkpoints
Planned rest, water, safety, and takeout stops.
Enfield → Middletown
A journey through the center of the state.
August 14, 2027
Saturday · Rain date Sunday, August 15, 2027.
Glastonbury BBQ
Music, games, deep-fried Oreos, awards.
Journey Milestones
Every Step Toward August 14, 2027
0 of 0 milestones complete. Tap any milestone to see what it involves.
Adventure with a purpose
Why We Paddle
The Connecticut River Challenge is a proposed adventure fundraiser organized by Venture Crew 261 of Suffield, Connecticut. Paddlers will travel from Enfield toward Middletown while supporters follow their progress, meet them at planned checkpoints, and gather for a community celebration at the finish.
The event promotes teamwork, perseverance, leadership, outdoor adventure, and community involvement while raising funds for future Crew opportunities.
Read About the EventThe route
The Challenge Route
The final route, public viewing locations, checkpoint addresses, and exact mileage will be posted after access and safety requirements have been confirmed.
View the Route- Put-In · Mile 0Kings Island Boat Launch — Enfield, CT
- Safety Checkpoint #1 · ~Mile 10Explorer Challenge Finish
- Safety Checkpoint #2 · ~Mile 20Adventure Challenge Finish
- Finish · ~Mile 35Harbor Park — Middletown, CT
Estimated total: ~35 river miles · Kings Island Boat Launch → Harbor Park
Ways to help
Join the Journey
Volunteer
Help with checkpoints, transportation, food, setup, tracking, or cleanup.
Volunteer InterestCommunity celebration
Celebrate in Glastonbury
The challenge will be celebrated with a community BBQ at the Glastonbury Boat Launch. Planned entertainment includes live music, lawn games, raffles, sponsor recognition, awards, and Crew 261's famous deep-fried Oreos.
BBQLive BandDeep-Fried OreosCornholeRafflesAwards
Explore the Celebration
From the crew
Latest Updates
Community partners
Support the Journey
Sponsorship opportunities will be available to businesses, organizations, and community partners interested in supporting youth adventure and leadership.
Follow along
Follow the Journey
Planning updates, paddler introductions, sponsor announcements, training progress, and behind-the-scenes preparations.
Email updates
Stay Informed
Announcements about volunteer opportunities, sponsorships, the BBQ, route updates, and event-day information.