Mount Isolation
4,004 ft | 2 trails | New Hampshire
4,004 ft
2 routes
Hard
NH 4000-Footer
About Mount Isolation
At 4,004 feet, Mount Isolation ranks among New Hampshire's celebrated 4000-Footers—a collection of 48 peaks that challenge and inspire hikers throughout the Northeast. This hard summit offers a quintessential White Mountain experience.
Popular Routes
The most popular route, **Rocky Branch Trail**, covers 14.6 miles and is rated Hard. Long approach to remote summit with 360-degree views.
Peak Bagging
**Extend Your Adventure:** Mount Eisenhower lies just 2.7 miles away, making it an excellent addition for ambitious hikers looking to bag multiple summits.
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Check Current Conditions
Trail conditions change frequently. Check recent reports on AllTrails or NE Trail Conditions before your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Mount Isolation?
Most routes on Mount Isolation take 7-9 hours round trip. The most popular trail is 14.6 miles with Hard difficulty. Start early, especially on weekends when parking fills quickly.
Is Mount Isolation hard to hike?
Mount Isolation is rated Hard. At 4,004 feet, expect challenging terrain above treeline with potential for rapid weather changes. Proper footwear and preparation are essential.
Do I need a permit to hike Mount Isolation?
No hiking permit is required for Mount Isolation. However, parking fees may apply at trailheads (typically $3-5/day for WMNF or state parks). A WMNF parking pass covers most White Mountain trailheads.
What is the best trail to hike Mount Isolation?
The most popular route is the Rocky Branch Trail, offering Long approach to remote summit with 360-degree views..
When is the best time to hike Mount Isolation?
The best hiking season for Mount Isolation is late May through October. Summer and fall offer the best conditions, though expect crowds on weekends. Winter hiking requires specialized gear and experience.
Best Time to Visit
spring
March - May
Muddy trails, snow above 3000ft until May
summer
June - August
Best weather, occasional afternoon thunderstorms
fall
September - November
Peak foliage late Sept, early snow possible in October
winter
December - February
Full winter conditions, extreme cold and wind above treeline
Winter Gear Checklist
- Snowshoes/crampons
- Insulated boots
- Balaclava
- Hand/toe warmers
- Emergency bivy
Tip: Winter hiking requires specialized skills and gear. Never hike alone. Check avalanche conditions for steeper terrain.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- ⚠️ ALPINE ZONE: Weather changes rapidly. Turn back if conditions deteriorate.
- Winter conditions in effect - full mountaineering gear required
- Hypothermia risk - temperatures 20-40°F colder at summit
- Short daylight hours - carry headlamp
- Trail markers may be buried under snow
Turn-Around Time
2:00 PM recommended for summit
Plan to reach the summit by this time to allow safe descent before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Nearby Peaks
Explore other mountains near Mount Isolation. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.
Mount Eisenhower
4,760 ft
Mount Pierce
4,312 ft
Mount Monroe
5,372 ft
Mount Webster
3,910 ft
Peak Bagging Tip
Mount Eisenhower is only 2.7 miles away. Consider combining these peaks for a bigger day or overnight trip!