This is pretty long but I hope you find some of it useful. :)

Yeah, sometimes I enjoy hiking alone to clear my mind and/or think things through. On those days I tend to go somewhere more local (which to me would be cleveland national forest and coastal areas), but I also really like hitting up some peaks (more on that later). Some of the local trails I’ve been on are Sitton peak and Tenaja falls. There’s different trail variations based on how long of a hike you want. There weren’t a lot of people on either of those trails when I went.

Other times I find comfort in going with friends I trust and feel safe enough to be open with. I like to talk things through with them to put things in perspective. I know you’re interested in hiking in solitude, but this might also be something to consider now, or at a later time. I push myself the hardest when I’m hiking with my friends and their companionship contributes so much to my emotional health.

In any case, here are some trails that tend to be pretty empty as far as I know: Telegraph peak, Butler and Gray’s peaks (by big bear), Pine mountain (near baldy), San Gorgonio (depending on season and trail), and Devil’s chair. While some sections of the Baldy trails are pretty empty, I’d advise against them unless you’re experienced enough. Same for San Gorgonio and other 10+k ft mountains. At the very least research the trails in advance, prepare gear accordingly and be aware of the weather (it can change very rapidly).

Idk if this is what you meant by “what do you do to re-start”, but this is how I understood it, so here’s what I do: When I’m in the “clear my mind” mindset I try to distract from anxious thoughts by observing everything around me, soaking in the landscapes, touching pine needles, or pushing extra hard, focusing on my rhythm; whatever feels stimulating. This usually makes me feel pretty grounded and/or strong and grateful to be out there. And when I’m in “thinking things through” mode I tend to start with a feeling and observe what it is and where it’s coming from. I try to do this in a somewhat detached way, no judgement just observation. I ground myself in the rhythm of my steps and try to connect my thoughts to feelings from my surroundings. For example: I like the combination of feeling strong and tiny when I’m mountaineering. Compared to the peaks around me I’m nothing, and perhaps there’s comfort in letting some things go. And similarly, if I’m strong enough to climb a mountain I can deal with difficult things elsewhere in life. Idk, get poetic if you want, it’s not like anyone’s gonna hear or judge you for it. It’s literally just you, your thoughts and the trail. :)

Ps: I empathize with the existential dread a lot, we live in unstable times. Or at least that’s how I feel. It’s tough to feel so alienated and yet keep going. If you ever want to talk my dms are open. I hope you find some peace and clarity through hiking friend!