Question about quiet trails for a peaceful hike near the city

I love getting out on the trails but lately every spot I pick is super crowded. Last Sunday I went to Maple Grove Path and it felt like a sidewalk with all the people and noise. I really just want to hear birds and the wind, not chatter and phones. Does anyone know of any lesser-known trails within about an hour's drive? I'm okay with a bit of a rougher path if it means solitude. I heard there might be some good ones past the old mill but I'm not sure. Any suggestions would be awesome, I need my nature fix without the crowd stress.

3 comments

3 Comments

the_mason2d ago

That mill area is totally hit or miss these days. My crew talks about trails sometimes and a few guys said Whispering Pines is getting more traffic lately. Honestly, the back half of the Blue Creek loop is way more reliable for quiet. The first part is kinda boring but if you push past the second creek crossing, you won't see a soul. Got that deep woods feel and the path is smooth. Just go early, like sunrise early.

aaron8452d ago

Whispering Pines Trail past the old mill is usually empty. The path gets rocky after the first mile but it's worth it for the quiet. I saw a deer there last week and barely anyone around.

paige_taylor692d ago

That rocky section after the mill is a real ankle breaker, way worse than he makes it sound. Last time I went there was a fallen tree blocking half the path and some ATVs buzzing around the far end. Not exactly the quiet escape he’s talking about.