Flett Glacier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Flett Glacier |
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Flett Glacier viewed from Observation Rock, with Echo Rock in the distance.
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 Flett Glacier
Location in Washington (state)
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| Type | Mountain glacier |
| Coordinates | 46°54′22″N 121°48′08″W / 46.90611°N 121.80222°W |
| Length | .35 mi (0.56 km) |
| Terminus | Moraines/proglacial lake |
| Status | Retreating |
The Flett Glacier is actually two separate glaciers. You can find them on the northwest side of Mount Rainier in the state of Washington, USA. These glaciers sit on a smaller peak near Rainier called Observation Rock, which is about 8,364 feet (2,549 m) tall.
What is Flett Glacier?
Flett Glacier is made up of two parts. There's an eastern part and a smaller western part. The eastern part is higher up, between 7,600 ft (2,300 m) and 7,300 ft (2,200 m) above sea level. The western part is a bit lower, around 7,200 ft (2,200 m) high.
Where Does the Water Go?
As the ice in Flett Glacier melts, the water flows into the Puyallup River. This river is an important waterway in Washington state. Glaciers like Flett Glacier are natural sources of fresh water.
Why Glaciers Are Important
Glaciers are like giant, slow-moving rivers of ice. They form when snow piles up over many years and turns into ice. Glaciers are important because they store a lot of Earth's fresh water. They also help shape landscapes as they move.
Flett Glacier, like many glaciers around the world, is currently "retreating." This means it is getting smaller. Scientists study glaciers to understand more about Earth's climate and how it is changing.
