The TundraCam is back Online!
An early November morning on Niwot Ridge. This image was taken by the TundraCam, an interactive camera on Niwot Ridge that allows users to check live conditions. Image captured at 10:34AM on November 3, 2025.
A beloved feature on Niwot Ridge, the TundraCam is back online after a critical camera replacement.
The TundraCam went offline a few months ago, and heavy sleuthing by Niwot lead field technician Jen Morse revealed a camera damaged beyond repair. Jen installed a new camera last week, and the TundraCam is operational and online once again.
Researchers check the TundraCam before heading into the field to collect data. Skiers check the TundraCam before heading into the backcountry for some turns. And people from across the country who are just nostalgic for the mountains tune in to the TundraCam to watch sunrises and sunsets.
The TundraCam is located at the top of an instrument tower next to the Tundra Lab on Niwot Ridge. We don’t know what caused the damage to the old TundraCam camera, but sustained exposure to harsh alpine conditions is a likely culprit. Photo by Austin Willbern.
Jen Morse installing the new TundraCam camera. In addition to conducting her own graduate research, Jen is responsible for much of the heavy lifting that keeps the research and infrastructure of the Niwot Ridge LTER running smoothly. Photo by Austin Willbern.
Thank you, Jen, for your sustained hard work getting the TundraCam back up and running!
Explore more stories from the ridge
