This summer, Grand Valley State University’s New Music Ensemble will be taking part in the National Parks tour as part of the National Park Service’s centennial celebration. The GVSU musicians will travel throughout several national parks, including Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. 

This tour is not only a great opportunity for a GVSU organization, but also a reminder to us all about becoming more engaged with the great outdoors. Summer is a time characterized with a little more free time and a little less obligation. Ultimately, we have to enjoy the three-month window we have without snow as Michiganders. 

You don’t even have to leave campus to experience all that is a true Michigan summer. As Lakers, we are lucky enough to be close to a variety of beaches and parks, from Grand Haven to Holland. Looking even closer to campus, the Grand Ravines North Park on 42nd Avenue offers hiking trails, views of the iconic Grand Valley Ravines, fishing and, soon, kayak access–all less than a minute away from our campus. 

Even if you aren’t staying on campus, you’re never far from a body of water. With 11,000 inland lakes, you can practically drive anywhere and enjoy miles of lakes and trails. Wherever you are in Michigan, you’re always within 85 miles of at least one of the Great Lakes. The Mitten State has the longest freshwater shoreline in the world. In fact, no Michigander is ever more than a handful of miles away from a natural body of water.

For those of you more interested in the arts, the Fredrik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids offers a view of a 58-acre botanical garden and park. Check out a concert, the museum or just walk around the gardens and enjoy the scenery. For little cost, a different view other than your backyard can be a great reason to explore the Grand Rapids area.

The National Parks tour should inspire the GVSU community to get more involved with nature, whether that includes going on an adventure in the nearby ravines or giving back to the environment by doing some gardening. GVSU prides itself as an institution in sustainability practices, giving back to the community, and in its beautiful nationally ranked campus.

Instead of refreshing your Twitter feed yet again, put your electronic devices down for an afternoon and go outside this summer. Slap on some sunscreen, break out the bug spray, grab a few friends and head to the trails, a beach or a lazy river. 

Lace up your hiking boots, put on your goggles and find a new place to have an adventure.