New Hampshire 4,000-Footer Planning Guide – Mount Isolation

Note: For complete trail descriptions, times, elevation, trailhead directions, and major features, see the AMC White Mountain Guide.

Profile
Mount Isolation (4,003 ft.) is the highest peak of the Montalban Ridge, a subsidiary of the Presidentials, and offers stunning views of the Presidentials - one of the finest views in the White Mountains.

Suggested Routes
Strenuous: As its name might imply, Mt. Isolation’s remote location makes this trip either a full-day in & out hike or part of a multi-day traverse of the surrounding ridges. Day hikers would likely opt to take the Rocky Branch Trail to the Isolation Trail, turning onto the Davis Path for just under a mile; at that point, a short spur path leads to Isolation’s summit. Another day option is to access the Davis Path via the Glen Boulder Trail. Multi-day hikers may also consider finding their way to the area from the Crawford Path (via the Mizpah and Dry River Cutoffs) or from Lakes of the Clouds Hut by way of the Camel Trail to the Davis Path.

Trip Planning
The WMNF maintains two shelters in the area, the Rocky Branch Shelter #2, located at the junction of the Isolation and Rocky Branch Trails, and the Dry River Shelter #3, located on the Dry River Trail, 1.4 miles north of the junction with the Isolation Trail.

Safety
The AMC recommends all hikers check weather conditions in advance, carry a current map and guidebook, along with a compass and knowledge of how to use it. For recommendations on how to plan a safe hike in the White Mountains, see: The 10 essentials for a safe and pleasant hike.