Disclosed is a process for the isomerization of 2,2,4,4-tetraalkylcyclobutane-1,3-diols, such as 2,2,4,4-tetramethylcyclobutane-1,3-diol, by contacting the diol with a supported ruthenium catalyst in the presence of hydrogen at elevated pressures and temperatures. The process is carried under conditions in which there is no net production of 2,2,4,4-tetraalkylcyclobutane-1,3-diol. The process may be carried out in the presence or absence of a solvent and in the liquid or vapor phase.