Chenega Glacier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chenega Glacier |
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| Type | Tidewater glacier |
| Location | Valdez-Cordova Census Area, Alaska, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 60°14′40″N 148°28′24″W / 60.24444°N 148.47333°W |
| Length | 12 miles (19.5 km) |
| Terminus | Ocean (Nassau Fjord) |
| Status | Retreating |
Chenega Glacier is a large tidewater glacier found in Prince William Sound in Alaska, U.S.. A tidewater glacier is a special type of glacier that flows all the way down to the ocean. This means its front, or "terminus," is in the water.
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What is Chenega Glacier?
Chenega Glacier is a long river of ice. It stretches about 12 miles (19.5 kilometers) long. This glacier is located on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska.
Where Does Chenega Glacier Get Its Ice?
The glacier gets its ice from a large area called the Sargent Icefield. This icefield is a huge sheet of ice that feeds several glaciers. Snow falls on the icefield, turns into ice, and slowly flows downhill to form the glacier.
The Name and History of Chenega Glacier
The name "Chenega Glacier" was given in 1905. It was named after Chenega Island and the nearby village of Chenega Bay. These places are important to the local history and culture of Alaska.
Chenega Glacier as a Tourist Spot
Chenega Glacier is a popular place for visitors. Many people come to see its amazing ice formations.
How Do People Visit the Glacier?
- Kayaking: Adventurous people enjoy kayaking near the glacier. They can paddle through the calm waters of Nassau Fjord.
- Cruise Ships: Smaller cruise ships also visit the area. They bring tourists closer to the glacier's icy front.
- Starting Point: Most trips to the glacier begin from Whittier. This is a small community in Prince William Sound.
Why is Nassau Fjord Important?
Nassau Fjord is where Chenega Glacier meets the ocean. This is a special spot where you can see large pieces of ice break off the glacier. This process is called "calving."
The Glacier's Namesake Ferry
The glacier even has a ferry named after it! The Alaska Marine Highway has a fast ferry called the M/V Chenega. This ferry helps people travel between different towns in Alaska.
