Mount Isolation via Rocky Branch

The Mount Isolation via Rocky Branch is 13.8 miles round trip, starting at Rocky Branch Trailhead (Route 16). At AMC book time — half the distance in hours plus 30 minutes per 1,000 ft of climbing — that works out to roughly 6-11 hours. Most parties take longer than book time on rough or above-treeline terrain, in winter, or with a heavy pack.

The Mount Isolation via Rocky Branch climbs about 3,489 ft over 13.8 miles — an average of roughly 253 ft of gain per mile. That figure is cumulative ascent across the whole out-and-back, not the difference between the trailhead and the high point.

HikerNerd rates the Mount Isolation via Rocky Branch Difficult, scored with the Shenandoah difficulty formula — √(elevation gain × 2 × distance) — applied to its 13.8 miles and 3,489 ft of gain. The score measures physical effort only. Above-treeline exposure, water crossings, and winter conditions can make a moderate-rated route the hardest day of your year, so check current conditions before committing.

The Mount Isolation via Rocky Branch summits 1 named peak: Mount Isolation.

The Mount Isolation via Rocky Branch starts at Rocky Branch Trailhead (Route 16). Check the trail alerts on this page before you drive — trailhead access and parking in the White Mountains change with closures and construction.