Riggs Glacier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Riggs Glacier |
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Riggs Glacier in 1992
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 Location in Alaska
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| Type | Mountain glacier |
| Coordinates | 59°10′08″N 136°14′37″W / 59.16889°N 136.24361°W |
| Length | 17 miles (27 km) |
| Terminus | sealevel |
| Status | retreating |
Riggs Glacier is a huge river of ice located in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska, a large state in the United States. It's a special type of glacier called a mountain glacier. This amazing natural wonder is always moving, slowly flowing downhill.
Exploring Riggs Glacier
Riggs Glacier is a very long glacier. It stretches for about 17 miles (27 kilometers). It starts high up in the Takhinsha Mountains. From there, it flows south-southeast.
Where to Find Riggs Glacier
You can find Riggs Glacier in a beautiful part of Alaska. It is located in the Hoonah-Angoon Census Area. The glacier begins about 4 miles (6 kilometers) southeast of Mount Harris. It ends at the very top of Muir Inlet. This spot is about 43 miles (69 kilometers) southwest of the town of Skagway.
How Riggs Glacier Got Its Name
Riggs Glacier was named in 1947. The American Geographical Society gave it its name. They named it after Thomas Riggs, Jr.. He was an important person in Alaska's history. Thomas Riggs, Jr. served as the Governor of Alaska. He was governor from 1918 to 1921.
