Isolation via Rocky Branch Trail > Isolation Trail > Davis Path > Isolation Spur(edit)

Overview

This is a difficult out and back trail to Mount Isolation in White Mountain National Forest.

This trail goes by Engine Hill.

Best hiked from December - April with snow cover. In warm months it can be a wet and muddy.

Getting Started

Parking Is on the west side of route 16 in Pinkham notch. There is an abundance of Parking in this lot. Rocky Branch is a popular winter route to Isolation. The trail can be a muddy mess in the warm months, but is still hiked. The trail hikes a moderate grade until the height of the land on Rocky Branch Ridge as you pass through Engine hill col at around 3100'. The trail then descends down to 2800' to the Rocky Branch Brook. From this junction you will head north on the Isolation trail which follows and crosses the brook a handful of times. The trail will work away from the brook and can be thick trail to follow at time particularly in winter with deep snow pack. After following Isolation trail for about 2.4 miles you will head south on Davis Path for .8 miles were you will come to a sign that points you up the .1 mile Isolation spur that ascends steeply. You will be awarded great views of Washington, Monroe, Eisenhower, Pierce, Boott Spur and may more peaks.