OUTDOORS: It’s fitting that June is National Great Outdoors Month.

Not only is the weather great, but the longest days of the year belong in June — meaning more time to spend outside.

In his proclamation signed May 31, President Donald Trump states, “I urge all Americans to set aside time during the month of June to visit our great outdoors and experience America’s natural and cultural history. This month in particular, we celebrate our Nation’s remarkable natural heritage and express our gratitude to those who help to preserve our natural habitat for generations of Americans to come.”

According to a proclamation signed by Gov. Tom Wolf, there are 119 state parks and 18 national parks in Pennsylvania, and the commonwealth hopes “to have a walking trail within 15 minutes of every Pennsylvanian” within the next few years.

“Enjoyment of the great outdoors highlights the critical importance of conserving our natural resources and enhancing our legacy of environmental stewardship by protecting open spaces, restoring wildlife habitats, educating young people about the environment, planting trees and maintaining recreational trails,” Wolf’s proclamation reads.

Locally, north central Pennsylvania is abundant with outdoor recreational opportunities, from the paths of the Tuna Valley Trail Association right here in the Bradford area, to the Allegany National Forest in Pennsylvania and Allegany State Park just across the border. There are several state parks and camping areas, too.

You don’t have to travel far to see gems of nature, with patches of green in corners of virtually every yard.

Pack a picnic lunch, or grab a novel and read on a park bench or a lawn chair. For many people around here, spending time outdoors is as easy as lacing up a pair of walking shoes and stepping out the door.