Hey John — It’s National Trails Day!

Today is the perfect day to get out and hike, run, or bike on one of your favorite trails in your area. One of my go-to activities is biking the Schuylkill River Trail:

Another one of my favorite trails in Pennsylvania is the Pennypack Trail — the final leg of the trail was just completed, so now hikers, bikers, and runners have even more beautiful views of our trees and wetlands.

Whether here in the Commonwealth or across our country our trails showcase some of the most unique and beautiful landscapes and monuments in the world. They are treasures to our country and also an important part of our economy. In fact, when I ask folks in Montgomery County what they love, they often tell me, “trails.”

Getting out on our trails, whether you're hiking, running, or biking is something folks can do with their whole family and is an easy way to stay healthy. Trust me, I’m a doctor. 🩺

Protecting and preserving trails and public lands not only strengthens our outdoor recreation industries and tourism, creating opportunities and good-paying jobs, but it’s an important step to ensure that our families will be able to enjoy and learn about these special places for generations to come. That’s why as Commissioner I’ve worked to open several miles of trails and plan to expand and repair even more.

Still, we can’t deny that the climate crisis has already and will continue to have devastating consequences on our public lands which is why we must act now to protect them. That means making bold investments in building a greener economy and tackling climate change head on, while providing good-paying jobs at the same time. I promise that’s what I’ll always fight for as your U.S. Senator.

Like so many others, biking down a trail on a beautiful day always helps me clear my head and usually makes me smile, and after the past year I’m sure we’re all looking forward to taking a deep breath in the great outdoors.

I hope you get a chance to enjoy a trail today. I think you’ll be glad you did.

Val