Isolation via Rocky Branch Nov 13-14, 2010

[B the Hiker]

We did a nice backpack out to Isolation via the Rocky Branch trail the weekend of November 13-14, 2010. Stunningly warm temps and endless views from the summit.

No snow or ice on the trails, but they were very wet, small streams at times. We followed the trails, no bushwhacking, although there was some confusion before the third crossing, where the trail appeared to continue on Rte 16 side past the crossing. It continued for 50 yards or so and then pretty much died. I suspect many folks ahead of us did what we did and followed what by this time is a pretty clear trail, walked down a ways, and then found it ended and turned around--making the non-trail look even more like a trail. So be careful about that!

Putting that aside, there were a lot of blow downs on the trail, both at the start (two large trees, one of which we pushed aside), and some up near the intersection with the Davis Path. There were lots and lots of small branches blown over the trails as well.

The stream crossings were no lower or higher than normal, but again, the trails were very soggy in many spots.

All we needed were regular old leather boots. No need of traction, as there wasn't any ice or snow to mention, and no black ice.


Brian

 

[bryan]

i'm pretty sure the path you followed at the 3rd crossing is the often used bypass of crossings 3 and 4. i know i've used that much more often than the actual trail over the years....
sounds like you had a nice trip.

bryan

 

[B the Hiker]

The thing that got us, Bryan, is that there was a very clear trail for a hundred feet or so, and then it seemed to disappear. I suspect most groups, like ours, turned around and did the crossings, neither of which were all that bad. That being said, there's really no need for them if a trail developed on that side instead.

 

[bryan]

there's really no need for them if a trail developed on that side instead.

sort of like what happened on the cedar brook trail on the way to the hancock loop.

bryan