This unsuspecting state hosts one of the world’s only three Certified Quiet Trails

By Gail Marsh
You may have heard about the rare Certified Dark Sky parks. Even more rare are Certified Quiet Trails. In fact, there are only three Certified Quiet Trails in the entire world. Three! One of these trails is in Taiwan. A second was recently certified in Spain. The third? Nebraska!

The United States’ first Certified Quiet Trail

In a world increasingly dominated by human-made noise, it’s important to preserve undeveloped areas. However, even in the deepest wilderness, escaping manmade noise can be challenging.

Enter Nebraska’s Niobrara National Scenic River trail, a sanctuary for those seeking absolute tranquility. In late 2023, this river trail earned the prestigious designation of a “Quiet Trail” by Quiet Parks International, making it one of only three such trails in the world and the first in North America.

Serenity

Spanning 76 miles, the Niobrara National Scenic River trail winds through the breathtaking Great Plains, from Valentine, Nebraska, to just north of Newport, Nebraska. This river trail invites adventurers to paddle, float, or hike through a landscape where natural quiet prevails.

Selection

The trail’s recognition comes after a meticulous selection process, including quantitative audio testing and subjective evaluations by the Quiet Parks International selection team over the course of two years.

“Beyond collecting standard acoustic data, each team member must agree, unanimously and unhesitatingly, that natural quiet prevailed throughout the testing period,” explained Quiet Parks International co-founder Gordon Hempton.

The Niobrara River’s remarkable geological formations, unique atmospheric conditions, and rich wildlife played crucial roles in achieving this special designation.

Benefits of quiet

Scientists say experiencing silence and the sounds of nature offer great benefits for our well-being. Silence calms our minds, providing a mental pause that lowers adrenaline and reduces stress.

In addition, a break from human-made sounds allows for a deeper connection with nature. Listening to birdsongs, flowing water, and rustling leaves can lower blood pressure, improve mood, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Natural sounds often trigger a relaxation response, countering the negative effects of constant noise pollution.

An invitation to Nebraska’s Certified Quiet Trail

Nebraska’s Quiet Trail invites RVers to visit soon and allow the sounds of nature to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you choose to paddle along the river or hike the trail, the experience promises a rare chance to immerse yourself in natural quiet, away from the relentless noise of everyday life.

Fun fact

Did you know the quietest place in the U.S. lies within one square inch of the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park in Washington state?

A decade ago, Emmy-winning acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton initiated the One Square Inch of Silence project to preserve this natural treasure. He successfully convinced three airlines—Alaska, Hawaiian, and American—to reroute training and maintenance flights around the quiet sanctuary of the park, specifically an area the size of two postage stamps.

The site is marked by a small red stone placed on a moss-covered log. The precise coordinates are N 48.12885°, W 123.68234°

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