In Nebraska's Sandhills, a serene retreat has been honored for its quietness. In lieu of visitors, only bird calls among the trees, waterfalls trickling and symphonies of rushing water can be heard. The Niobrara National Scenic River is 76 miles of free-flowing water with over 200 waterfalls.
It has six ecosystems that overlap one another which creates hybrid plants and animals. "We're there to protect all of these species and protect the water quality and quantity," said Susan Cook, superintendent of Niobrara. In October 2023, Quiet Parks International named the Niobrara National Scenic River the first "Quiet Trail" in the United States.
Only two other trails have received the designation in the world. Cueifong Lake Circular Trail in Taiwan received the first distinction in 2022 and in May, the Montanas Vacías Bikepacking Trail in Spain was awarded as well. Quiet places first have to be nominated and then evaluated by Quiet Parks International Field Recordists.
Quiet Parks is a non-profit, volunteer-ran organization who seek to find and protect quiet places around the world. For the Niobrara, Cook said there had to be a minimum of 15 minutes without any man made sounds throughout the four-day flow down the river. "You almost don't realize it's quiet because it's quietness is actually just hearing nature," Cook said.
She said the quietness comes from the working ranches that surround the river and prevents further development. "It is a very rare occurrence that you can go f.
