The drive from the NSF NCAR Mesa Lab to the Mountain Research Station (MRS) is a scenic ~ 1-hr drive along a twisting well-paved road through Boulder Canyon, with an elevation gain of ~ 4,000 ft. There is a short gravel road section as we approach the MRS, at an elevation of 9,500 ft. The MRS is equipped with facilities including restrooms, drinking water, and limited cell phone service.

Lunch will be provided. After an introduction from MRS Director Scott Taylor, we will walk ~ 30 minutes from the MRS to a location known as ‘C1’ along a gravel service road covering a distance of ~ 1 mile with an elevation gain of ~ 500 ft. The road is well-maintained with a steady incline and one short but steeper section. The cultural and geologic setting will be described along the way.  From C1 (elevation 9,941 ft), we will walk for ~ 15 minutes along a ~ 600 m trail through the subalpine forest to the US-NR1 AmeriFlux tower (elevation 10,000 ft). The single-path trail has a gentle but steady incline with one short section (30 ft) over some rocks and a short bridge (10 ft) crossing Como Creek.

At the tower, an overview of the measurement program will be provided, and those interested may climb the 26-m-tall walk-up scaffolding tower. Those interested may visit other locations for demonstrations of other nearby research activities including tree physiology measurements, a SNOTEL site, and UAV flights (weather permitting).

Due to time constraints, only a limited number of attendees will be able to climb the tower. During registration, you will be able to indicate if you are interested in climbing the tower. This activity is first-come-first serve. You must wear a safety harness and helmet and mandatory safety training is required.

What to Expect

Expect to have a wonderful, memorable experience. The aspen fall colors in mid-September will likely be beautiful, but the weather can vary from summer to late fall/early winter conditions. We will be watching the weather closely prior to and during the trip. It can often be windy at high elevation, and regardless of the weather, ample hydration is required to help mediate altitude sickness. Although the walk is strenuous, please be aware that we will be at high elevation and altitude sickness can affect anyone at any time.

What to Bring

• Sturdy walking shoes
• Water bottle/small backpack
• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Layers of clothing; i.e. lightweight base + fleece and/or wool, plus shell for rain/wind protection (we recommend that you dress in layers).
• Gloves/warm hat