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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Kent State chapter.

As we begin another year at Kent State, it’s important to remember to take a break from our studies to enjoy nature. 

There are countless benefits to outdoor hikes. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, getting outside is both physically and mentally healthy. 

woman in white shirt and blue leggings
Photo by Anna Shvets from Pexels

Lucky for us, the Portage Hike and Bike Trail runs right through Kent State University campus. The trail runs 15.5 miles from Kent to Ravenna. 

The path is fully paved and runs through scenic woods and wetlands. 

girl pointing at nature
Celina Timmerman / Her Campus

The Kent State end of the trail runs from Dix Stadium through downtown, and includes the scenic “riverwalk.” 

According to a study from Taylor and Francis Online, “Contact with nature has been shown to improve psychological health by reducing stress, enhancing mood and replenishing mental fatigue.” 

friends talking outside on hike
Photo by Tim Mossholder from Unsplash

With so much green space on campus and an extensive paved path at our fingertips, there is no reason not to go out and enjoy nature. 

So go on, take a break from studies in the most fulfilling way possible. Fuel your body and your mind.

Grace Springer

Kent State '24

Grace is a Journalism Major and Media Advocacy Minor at Kent State University. She is interested in music and plays flute for the KSU Marching Band. Other clubs she is involved in are Sunrise Kent State and Tau Beta Sigma.