Pilz Glacier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pilz Glacier |
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 Pilz Glacier
Location in Washington (state)
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| Type | Alpine glacier |
| Location | Chelan County, Washington, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 48°04′11″N 120°58′19″W / 48.06972°N 120.97194°W |
| Length | .75 mi (1.21 km) |
| Terminus | Barren rock/icefall |
| Status | Retreating |
Pilz Glacier, sometimes called Pit Glacier, is a cool natural ice formation. It is found in the Wenatchee National Forest in the state of Washington, in the United States. This glacier sits on the northern side of Luahna Peak.
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What is Pilz Glacier?
Pilz Glacier is a type of glacier known as an alpine glacier. This means it forms in mountain valleys. It stretches about .75 mi (1.21 km) long. The glacier starts high up on the mountain, around 8,000 ft (2,400 m), and flows down to about 6,900 ft (2,100 m).
Where is Pilz Glacier Located?
Pilz Glacier is located in a beautiful, wild area. It's part of the Glacier Peak Wilderness. This wilderness area is a protected place where nature can thrive. The glacier is about 6.5 mi (10.5 km) southeast of a very tall mountain called Glacier Peak.
What is an Arête?
Next to Pilz Glacier, there's a sharp, rocky ridge. This ridge is called an arête. It acts like a natural wall. This arête separates Pilz Glacier from another glacier nearby, called Butterfly Glacier, which is to the west. Arêtes are formed when glaciers erode, or wear away, rock on both sides of a mountain ridge.
Is Pilz Glacier Changing?
The status of Pilz Glacier is "retreating." This means the glacier is getting smaller over time. It is melting faster than new snow and ice can build up. Many glaciers around the world are retreating. This is often due to changes in Earth's climate. Scientists study glaciers like Pilz Glacier to understand more about our planet's health.
Why Are Glaciers Important?
Glaciers are very important for several reasons. They store a lot of fresh water. When they melt slowly, they provide water for rivers and streams. This water is used by people, animals, and plants. Glaciers also help scientists learn about past climates. The ice in glaciers holds clues about what the Earth was like long ago.
