I just wanted to follow up because I finally tried that route you mentioned near the lake, and it was exactly the quiet break I needed.
I started earlier than usual, brought extra water, and left my phone tucked away most of the time so I could really enjoy being offline for a bit.
The best part was how empty everything felt in a good way, like everyone else had decided to sleep in and I somehow got the morning to myself.
I did get slightly turned around at one fork, but I remembered your note about staying left by the big fallen tree and that helped.
Next time I think I will pack a small towel and maybe take a little longer at the overlook since I rushed through it.
I am glad you pushed me to go because I probably would have talked myself out of it otherwise.
If you want, I can go again this weekend and meet earlier so we have more time to wander.

I saw your note late last night and meant to answer sooner, but I needed a little time to think about what you asked.
I honestly think you are overcomplicating it by trying to make every option perfect before you start anything at all.
When I get stuck like that, I make a small list with only three choices, walk away for an hour, and then come back when my brain is less noisy.
Most of the time the right direction is suddenly obvious, or at least one option clearly feels easier to live with for now.
I also try to remember that I can change my mind after taking the first step, which takes away some of the pressure.
You do not need the whole plan today, just a decent starting point and enough energy to begin.
If it helps, send me your short list later and I will tell you which one sounds most like you without overthinking it.
Sometimes an outside read makes things less tangled.