Terror Glacier (Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Terror Glacier |
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Terror Glacier at center
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 Terror Glacier
Location in Washington (state)
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| Type | Cirque glacier |
| Coordinates | 48°45′59″N 121°17′19″W / 48.76639°N 121.28861°W |
| Length | .40 mi (0.64 km) |
| Terminus | Barren rock |
| Status | Retreating |
Terror Glacier is a fascinating ice river located in the North Cascades National Park. You can find it in the U.S. state of Washington. This glacier sits on the southern side of Mount Degenhardt. Just a short distance away, about a quarter of a mile to the northwest, is Mount Terror. Also, the very steep McMillan Spire is right to the northeast.
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What is Terror Glacier?
Terror Glacier is a large body of ice that moves slowly. It is a type of glacier called a cirque glacier. This means it forms in a bowl-shaped hollow on the side of a mountain. The glacier is about 0.40 miles long. It ends on bare rock, which means there isn't much plant life where it finishes.
Where is Terror Glacier Located?
This amazing glacier is found in the North Cascades National Park. This park is in Whatcom County, Washington. The North Cascades are a mountain range known for their rugged peaks and many glaciers. Terror Glacier is a part of this beautiful and wild landscape.
How Do Glaciers Form?
Glaciers like Terror Glacier form over many years. They start when more snow falls in winter than melts in summer. This snow builds up and gets packed down. The weight of the new snow turns the older snow into ice. Over time, this ice becomes so thick and heavy that it starts to flow slowly, like a very thick river.
What is a Cirque Glacier?
A cirque glacier is a special kind of glacier. It forms in a natural hollow or "armchair" shape on a mountain. This hollow is called a cirque. Snow and ice collect in this bowl. As the ice grows, it carves out the cirque even more. Terror Glacier is a great example of this type of glacier.
What's Happening to Terror Glacier?
Scientists observe that Terror Glacier is currently retreating. This means the glacier is getting smaller. Its ice is melting faster than new snow can turn into ice and add to it. Many glaciers around the world are retreating due to changes in climate. Studying glaciers like Terror Glacier helps us understand how our planet is changing.
