This particular trail did clear up for me - I was right about most people only going the first mile or so and then turning around; I usually find if you press on long enough you'll get past the point where people feel like they want to go. On my way back (it was a loop, so coming back was up the other side of the river), there were several little "secret" areas that were wide open and had no one around, because you had to go down a barely visible side trail to get there. I actually got a chance to stop and just hang out on a little private beach right by the river for a few minutes and be completely alone. It was absolutely magical! Sometimes it is bothersome seeing other people around, but then I also enjoy thinking that maybe they'll get their little magical moments, too, and it makes me happy. :)