Rating: moderate-difficult

Distance: 0.2 mile

Surface: crusher fines, pavement

Width: Avg: 7’ Min: 3’ 6”

Cross slope: Max: 7.7%

Grade: Avg: 8% Max: 15% for 5’

Trail Notes: The interpretive Walter Orr Roberts weather trail is about 0.2 mile to the top. It’s a great place to visit for spectacular 360 degree views nestled in pine trees, grass and wildflowers. From parking to the beginning of the trail is about a 300’ sidewalk with a consistent 8% grade. At the end of the sidewalk, you can go left up another 200’ incline with an 8% grade to use the restroom facilities inside NCAR or take a tour of the science displays. Otherwise, the red crusher fines route begins across the road. There are about a dozen 2.5’ high interpretive signs highlighting weather-related information. Towards the end of the route there are two stone slab benches in shady areas with magnificent views.

Hard Spots: This trail has a typical grade of 8 – 15% with a few flatter spots along the way. If you are using a wheelchair, you might want assistance on this trail because of the steepness and washed out areas. Also, a few of the forks on this trail are not accessible with lots of rocks in the way. The forks to the north are more groomed.

Habitat: Black bears and mountain lions inhabit this area. Coyote, fox, mule deer, and a variety of raptors may also be observed. This is also a great place to look at wildflowers, especially in the early spring.

Culture and History: The nature trail was named after Walter Orr Roberts (1915-1990), the founder of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (right). An astronomer and atmospheric physicist, he was one of the first scientists to warn that technology was changing the earth’s climate.