Harrower Glacier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Harrower Glacier |
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 Harrower Glacier
Location in Wyoming
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| Type | Mountain glacier |
| Coordinates | 43°06′02″N 109°35′18″W / 43.10056°N 109.58833°W |
| Length | .2 mi (0.32 km) |
| Terminus | Talus |
| Status | Retreating |
Harrower Glacier is a fascinating natural ice formation. It is located in the U.S. state of Wyoming. This glacier is a great example of how ice can shape our planet.
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What is Harrower Glacier?
Harrower Glacier is a type of mountain glacier. This means it forms in high mountain areas. It is a large body of ice that moves slowly over land. Glaciers are like very slow-moving rivers of ice. They are formed from layers of snow that get compressed over many years.
Where is Harrower Glacier Located?
Harrower Glacier is found in the northern part of the Wind River Range. This is a mountain range in Wyoming. It sits on the west side of the Continental Divide of the Americas. The Continental Divide is like a giant ridge. It separates the rivers that flow to the Atlantic Ocean from those that flow to the Pacific Ocean.
The glacier is part of the Bridger Wilderness. This is a protected natural area. It is also within the Bridger-Teton National Forest. This forest is a huge area of trees and mountains. Harrower Glacier is one of many glaciers in the American Rocky Mountains. These mountains have the largest group of glaciers in the U.S. outside of Alaska.
The Wind River Range
The Wind River Range is famous for its tall peaks. It also has many beautiful lakes and forests. It is home to many glaciers. These glaciers are important because they store a lot of fresh water. They also help us understand how Earth's climate is changing.
How Do Glaciers Form?
Glaciers start as snow. When more snow falls than melts each year, it builds up. Over time, the weight of the new snow presses down on the old snow. This pressure turns the snow into ice. This ice then starts to flow very slowly. It moves downhill because of gravity.
Harrower Glacier flows towards the north. It is located in a special bowl-shaped area called a cirque. A cirque is carved out by the glacier itself. This cirque is found below the top of Knife Point Mountain. This mountain is very tall, reaching about 3,962 meters (13,001 feet) high.
Why Are Glaciers Important?
Glaciers are very important for several reasons. They act like giant frozen reservoirs. They store water during cold seasons. Then, they slowly release it as they melt in warmer months. This meltwater feeds rivers and streams. It provides water for people, animals, and plants.
Glaciers also help scientists study climate change. They are very sensitive to temperature changes. When glaciers shrink, it tells us that the Earth's climate is getting warmer.
What Does "Retreating" Mean for a Glacier?
The status of Harrower Glacier is "Retreating." This means the glacier is getting smaller. It is melting faster than new snow can build up. Many glaciers around the world are retreating. This is a sign of a warming climate. When a glacier retreats, it can affect water supplies. It can also change the landscape around it.
Scientists watch glaciers like Harrower Glacier closely. They want to understand how fast they are melting. This helps them predict future changes to our environment. Protecting these natural wonders is important for everyone.
