As the days are getting longer and school is officially out for the summer, it’s natural that we’ll be spending more time outdoors. Spending time outside not only offers many opportunities to be physically active but also improves your overall health and wellness and is proven to decrease stress. 

With all of these health benefits in mind, here are a few ideas to get outside, get moving, and enjoy all of the beauties of Monroe County while you’re at it this summer.

1. Stroll through the quiet campus. Spice up your normal walks and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the limestone-clad campus at Indiana University. With the students on summer break, the campus takes on a peaceful, quiet regality that’s seldom seen during the high-energy, bustling months of the school year.

2. Bike the B-Line Trail. The famous B-Line Trail extends a total of 3.1 miles from Adams Street to Country Club Drive. The B-Line connects to the Bloomington Rail Trail at Country Club Drive, offering a total of 5.1 miles of trail. You can bike, walk, or run this trail, as it’s completely paved and offers drinking fountains, picnic tables, and full lighting from dusk to dawn.

3. Visit the Community Farmers’ Market. This is a downtown favorite featuring fresh food and homemade goods from local and regional farmers. In 2022, the market will be open every Saturday from April through September from 8:00 am-1:00 pm. Hours adjust to 9:00 am-1:00 pm in October and November.

4. Go hiking at the Paynetown State Recreation Area. Lace up your hiking shoes and set out on one of the many trails in this park. Luckily there are several trails to choose from based on length and difficulty. These trails allow you to be near the water while still taking in the beautiful scenery and nature of the park.

5. Enjoy a day at Monroe Lake. Plan a day this summer to venture out to Indiana’s largest body of water. From lazing on a pontoon boat, speeding across the water on a jet ski, or exploring the lake at your own pace in a kayak, you can find fun for the whole family there!