Finding peace & purpose on the trail: hiking near me at Pumphouse & hemlock trail in laurel hill

There’s something about stepping away from the noise and business of the world to the woods that refreshes the soul in a way few things can. I haven't been out in awhile and could feel myself yearning to be in the woods to let go of my stress and refill on peace. Hiking near me in the woods used to be a part of daily selfcare that I wouldn't miss. Over the last year, I haven't prioritized that into my life enough which is something I'll be intentionally changing. Thankfully my husband has always agreed and these outings have always been the best day date for us which is why he didn't waste a minute in taking the day off to accompany me and the pups. We knew we didn't have long before the fall foliage would be gone so we set out to Laurel Hill. We had hiked this once before three years ago and I have wanted to go back ever since because of the beauty of the Hemlock trees but, honestly couldn't remember where they actually were. After much research we found the 2-mile loop starting with the Pump House Trail in Laurel Hill that we hiked years ago. This trail is mostly uphill and rocky and rugged enough to remind you that you need better hiking shoes than Converse, (the shoes my husband decided to wear). 🤪

About a quarter mile in, we spotted a sign for Hines Mill Run Dam and decided to take a little detour. I’m so glad we did! The water was crystal clear — like, “I can see every pebble on the bottom” clear. It was one of those moments you just stand there smiling, soaking in how peaceful it feels to be surrounded by nature. Definitely worth the stop!

After that, we jumped back on Pump House Trail, followed it until it connected to Martz Trail, took a right, and then another right onto Water Line Trail to loop back to the car. The whole route ended up being about two miles, with just enough challenge to make you feel accomplished without needing a nap afterward (though, no judgment if you do!).

As much as we loved Pump House Trail (and we really did!), the real star of the day was Hemlock Trail, just a short drive down the road. Honestly, this was the main reason we came to Laurel Hill in the first place. 🌲 The trail forms a peaceful loop. You can start in either direction at the fork — but I always choose to go left. That way, you get the stair climb out of the way early, and the rest of the walk becomes a relaxing downhill glide that ends beside a sparkling, crystal-clear stream that you get to walk with. The water winds through one of the few remaining hemlock forests still thriving in the area, and it’s absolutely breathtaking. Some of these trees are over 500 years old, (if only they could talk)!

A Walk That Heals — Body, Mind & Spirit

One of the reasons I write about these hikes on our Ezekiel’s Garden platform is because they’re not just good for the legs—they’re good for the heart, the mind, and even the soul. A systematic review on forest exposure (sometimes called “forest therapy”) found that spending time in wooded, natural settings shows measurable benefits. For example:

• Walking in a forest environment was associated with reduced blood pressure compared to urban walks. PMC+1

• Participants in nature-based studies showed lower levels of pro‐inflammatory markers (such as IL-6) and better mood scores, including increased vigor and reduced negative emotions. PMC

• The review concluded: “Forest therapy may play an important role in health promotion and disease prevention.” PubMed+1

Basically, a walk in the woods is one of the best things you can do for your mind and body. It’s like hitting the reset button, naturally.

Why This Season, Why These Trails

It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of life — emails, errands, to-do lists. But out on the trail, all that fades away. You start to notice the sound of water trickling beside you, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the way sunlight filters through the trees.

There’s peace in that. There’s also purpose. Getting outdoors isn’t just good exercise — it’s a reminder that God created all this beauty for us to enjoy and care for.

So if you’ve been thinking, “I should get outside more,” this is your sign. Grab your hiking shoes, bring a friend, and find a trail that makes you feel alive. Take the detour. Stop by the stream. Let yourself wander a little.

Trust me — you’ll come back feeling lighter, happier, and more connected to the world around you.

Get Outside. You’ll Be Glad You Did.

At Ezekiel’s Garden, we believe that stepping into creation is one of the ways we reconnect—with God, with our identity, with purpose. But let’s not neglect the very real health side: science is telling us that something as simple as walking in the woods can lower stress hormones, improve immune markers, and boost mood. psychiatry.org+1

If you’ve been meaning to get outside—make this your nudge. Choose a trail. Bring water. Look at the rocks. Listen to the water. Feel the breeze. The uphill push? Worth it. The detour? Worth it. The loop back? Bringing you full circle. Give your body the movement, your mind the peace, and your heart the view.