White Salmon Glacier (Mount Shuksan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids White Salmon Glacier |
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White Salmon Glacier in lower right
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 White Salmon Glacier
Location in Washington (state)
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| Type | Mountain glacier |
| Coordinates | 48°50′04″N 121°37′21″W / 48.83444°N 121.62250°W |
| Length | .40 mi (0.64 km) |
| Terminus | Barren rock/icefall |
| Status | Retreating |
The White Salmon Glacier is a fascinating natural wonder located in the North Cascades National Park in the state of Washington, U.S. It sits on the western side of a tall mountain called Mount Shuksan. This glacier isn't just one big sheet of ice; it's actually a group of smaller glaciers. These icy streams flow downwards from a mountain ridge known as Shuksan Arm.
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White Salmon Glacier: A Frozen River
The White Salmon Glacier is like a very slow-moving river made of ice. It's a type of mountain glacier, which means it forms high up in the mountains. Glaciers are created when snow falls and piles up over many years. The weight of the new snow presses down on the old snow, turning it into dense ice. This ice then slowly flows downhill because of gravity.
Where is This Glacier?
You can find the White Salmon Glacier in the beautiful North Cascades National Park. This park is in Whatcom County, Washington, which is in the northwestern part of the United States. The glacier is specifically on the west slopes of Mount Shuksan, a well-known peak in the Cascade Range. It's a remote and wild area, perfect for exploring nature.
Why is the Glacier Important?
Glaciers like the White Salmon Glacier are very important for several reasons. They store a lot of fresh water, which can melt and flow into rivers and streams during warmer months. This water is vital for plants, animals, and even people living downstream. Glaciers also help scientists understand how the Earth's climate is changing.
Glacier Status: Retreating
Sadly, many glaciers around the world, including the White Salmon Glacier, are getting smaller. This process is called "retreating." Scientists study glaciers to see how quickly they are shrinking. When a glacier retreats, it means it's melting faster than new snow is falling and turning into ice. This can be a sign of a warming climate.
Exploring the Glacier: A Climber's Path
For adventurous people who love to climb mountains, the White Salmon Glacier is part of a special route. Climbers use this glacier to reach a challenging section called Fisher Chimney. This path offers a quicker way to get to the very top of Mount Shuksan compared to other routes. It's a tough climb, but it offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
