Interesting fun fact: Missouri is home to more than 1,000 amazing hikes, trails, and otherwise delightful outdoor pathways. Some are quite easy and suitable enough for very small children, while others are quite challenging and are more suitable for a lengthy backpacking trip - so, which one calls to you? For me, personally, it's the call of the wild. I crave the solace and comfort of the great outdoors, and as luck would have it, Missouri happens to be one of the best places in the U.S. for nice, quiet hikes. Hiking in Missouri is a true pleasure; experience it once for yourself, and you'll understand for life.

I've managed to put together a short list (a very short short list!) of five of the best trails (and parks) in Missouri for anyone who craves peace, quiet, and solace. Your best bet to get any one (or all) of these to yourself is to arrive early and mid-week - that's your key to success. So, without further ado, here are a handful of quiet hiking trails in Missouri that are sure to instill a sense of wonder:

1. Shawnee Bend Bluff Trail

The gorgeous Shawnee Bend Bluff Trail is just over two miles long and is rated as moderately difficult; there's a little climbing and scrambling to be done, but it's nothing terribly substantial. I'm not even sure what part of this hike is the best: the jaw-dropping views, the stunning wonder of being fully immersed in the forest, or... well, anything else. I think I'll just pack it up and say that's the best part is everything - the whole thing. It's a nice loop, so you'll end up where you started, unless you happen to discover and meander one of the many little offshoots the hike has. The trail is well-marked and beautiful. If you're a photography sort of person, definitely bring the camera: This is one of the most photogenic hikes in Missouri.

2. Indian Camp Creek Park Walking Loop

The tranquility of wandering a nice, established (and well-cared-for) trail next to a small lake is just one of those things you might think about to keep you going for the week - and the grossly underrated Indian Camp Creek Park Walking Loop is ideal for exactly that. It's just under three miles long, and thankfully, for those of us who appreciate it, it's paved all the way. Dogs are welcome, though they must be on a leash for this one. Wheelchairs and mobility equipment should have few to no issues traversing the area. This place holds many secrets... dare you listen? Who knew hiking trails in Missouri were so diversely beautiful?

3. Lake View Bend Trail

Lake of the Ozarks State Park is a gem in and of itself, but did you know that it's home to some of the least-traveled trails in the state? I'm not sure how either, but it's true - and if you're craving a quiet day away from home, the Lake View Bend Trail is waiting. It's just under one and a half miles long, and it shows off the exotic beauty of the Ozarks in a whole new way. Ticks can be an issue in the summer, so dress accordingly. I suspect you'll fall in love with the stunning views, just like I did.

4. Old Hahns Mill

Old Hahns Mill is a short-n-sweet banger of a hike coming in at under one mile long, and, thankfully, it's pretty easy. If you're fascinated by the natural world around us, you'll love this hike. Immerse yourself in Missouri's stunningly beautiful wilderness and learn what it truly means to love this state. This trail's perfect for exactly that! Avoid the trail on weekends, and you should be golden. This quiet, peaceful hiking trail in Missouri is everything those of us who crave the outdoors need - come experience it for yourself!

5. Shut-in Trail & Mudlick Loop

If you couldn't tell, I seem to have a thing with hiking trails that have water, and the Shut-in Trail & Mudlick Loop is no exception. This hike is about three miles long and offers some truly lovely views of Missouri's great outdoors. It is moderately challenging, so expect a few spots where the going might get a little rough - it's worth it, though! The trail narrows in places, and fallen trees can sometimes pose some obstacles, but I have faith that you'll be able to do it (and rock it.) The views are amazing, the weather is beautiful, and if you've got time to kill today, you ought to do this amazing Missouri hike.

If you're a passionate hiker and you'd like to improve your skills a little (or a lot), I strongly recommend checking out AllTrails Plus. My hiking was already awesome, and now it's flawless. Score! Need more hiking ideas but don't really want to bother with overly long ones? Same. Check out these incredible hiking trails in Missouri under five miles long.