Middle Palisade Glacier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Middle Palisade Glacier |
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Middle Palisade Glacier at upper left of image below Middle Palisade
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 Middle Palisade Glacier
Location in California
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| Type | Mountain glacier |
| Location | Inyo National Forest, Inyo County, California, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 37°04′16″N 118°27′52″W / 37.07111°N 118.46444°W |
| Length | .20 mi (0.32 km) |
| Terminus | Talus |
| Status | Retreating |
The Middle Palisade Glacier is actually two glaciers found high up in the Sierra Nevada mountains. These glaciers are located in the state of California, in the U.S..
This glacier is a short distance southeast of another glacier called Norman Clyde Glacier. It sits very high up, at about 12,700 feet (3,871 meters) above sea level. You can find Middle Palisade Glacier within the John Muir Wilderness area, which is part of the Inyo National Forest. The tall Middle Palisade mountain, which is 14,012 feet (4,271 meters) high, is right next to the glacier on its west side.
What is a Glacier?
A glacier is a huge, slow-moving river of ice. It forms over many years as layers of snow pile up and get pressed together. This pressure turns the snow into ice. Glaciers are found in places where it's cold enough for snow to stay on the ground all year round.
Where is Middle Palisade Glacier?
The Middle Palisade Glacier is in a very special place. It's high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are known for their beautiful peaks and wilderness areas. Being in the John Muir Wilderness means the area is protected. This helps keep the natural environment safe for animals and plants.
Why are Glaciers Important?
Glaciers are important for many reasons. They store a lot of the world's fresh water. When they melt slowly, they provide water for rivers and streams, which people and wildlife use. The Middle Palisade Glacier, like many glaciers around the world, is currently "retreating." This means it is getting smaller. Scientists study glaciers like this one to understand how our planet's climate is changing.
