Ahern Glacier (Montana) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ahern Glacier |
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 Ahern Glacier
Location in Montana
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| Type | Mountain glacier |
| Location | Glacier National Park, Glacier County, Montana, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 48°50′34″N 113°47′02″W / 48.84278°N 113.78389°W |
| Area | 126 acres (51 ha) in 2005 |
| Terminus | Talus |
| Status | Retreating |
Ahern Glacier is a fascinating natural ice formation located in Glacier National Park in the U.S. state of Montana. It was named after George Patrick Ahern. This glacier sits high up in the mountains, nestled between Ipasha Peak to the north and Ahern Peak to the south. It's found at an elevation of about 8,000 to 8,800 feet (2,438 to 2,682 meters) above sea level. Ahern Glacier is also very close to the Continental Divide, a major ridge that separates which ocean a river's water will eventually flow into.
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What is Ahern Glacier?
Ahern Glacier is a type of mountain glacier. Glaciers are huge bodies of ice that move slowly over land. They form in places where snow falls and accumulates faster than it melts. Over many years, the layers of snow get compressed and turn into ice. Ahern Glacier is an important part of the natural landscape in Glacier National Park.
Where is Ahern Glacier Located?
This glacier is found in the beautiful Glacier National Park in Montana. The park is famous for its stunning mountains, forests, and, of course, its glaciers. Ahern Glacier is specifically located on a ridge. This ridge is positioned between two notable peaks: Ipasha Peak to its north and Ahern Peak to its south. Its location immediately east of the Continental Divide means that any water melting from the glacier will flow towards the Atlantic Ocean side of the continent.
Water from the Glacier
The meltwater from Ahern Glacier creates a spectacular sight. It feeds into a waterfall known as Ahern Glacier Falls. This waterfall is quite impressive, dropping an estimated 1,680 feet (512 meters) in one sheer plunge. The water then flows down a steep, rocky slope called a talus slope. From there, it continues its journey towards Helen Lake, adding to the park's many beautiful water features.
How Ahern Glacier is Changing
Like many glaciers around the world, Ahern Glacier is currently retreating. This means it is getting smaller. Scientists have been studying the glacier to see how much it has changed over time. Between 1966 and 2005, Ahern Glacier lost about 13 percent of its total surface area. This change shows how sensitive glaciers are to changes in climate.
