Mendenhall Glacier, a glacier that can be seen from within

Do you agree with us that glaciers are among the most amazing natural formations on the planet? You just have to see the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina to realize it. Of course, we may still find more wonderful those who can be visited from within. Yes! Yes! You read correctly! This is the case of the thick mass of ice that we are talking about today. We are referring to the Mendenhall Glacier, which is located in the Mendenhall Valley, in Southeast Alaska (United States).

Would you like to discover more details about this show of the nature? Well, then you can not miss anything we tell you below! We assure you that you will love it!

Location

As we have just mentioned, the glacier that we show you today is in the Mendenhall Valley, 19 kilometers from the capital of Alaska. To be more specific, this amazing ice formation is located in the protected area Mendanhall Glacier Recreation Area, which is a federal area located in the Tongass National Forest. The Amerindian tribe of the Tlingit called it Sitaantaagu, which means "glacier behind the village", although it was also called Aak’wtaaksit ("the glacier behind the small lake"). Later, the place was renamed Auke in honor of naturalist John Muir, although in 1981 the glacier was renamed, this time with its current name, in memory of Thomas Corwin Mendenhall, a leading scientific professor in the region.

Dimensions

How could it be otherwise, one of the surprising things about the glacier are its dimensions. And we are talking about an impressive mass of ice about 19 kilometers long. And although many are the visitors who come every year to contemplate this wonder, only a few dare to visit the interior, which can be visited thanks to the fact that the thaw He has carved internal caves that are constantly changing in size and color. Therefore, each visit is as if it were the first.

Gaze at the glacier from within

Seeing the glacier from the outside is really surprising but discovering it from the inside is a truly magical experience, among other things due to the mix of blue hues that can be glimpsed. In addition, you can discover two waterfalls sliding down an adjacent mountain. Of course, before launching into adventure There are two very important questions to keep in mind. First of all, you should know that the path to the caves is not an easy one, since you have to go a stretch in a kayak, take a walk and climb the ice. Secondly, nobody can assure that the caves are not going to collapse at any moment, like the icebergs that are along the way. In any case, it is recommended to visit the place with the company of an expert guide.

Recoil

As we have just mentioned, visiting the interior of the glacier is dangerous, since there is a certain risk of collapse. In fact, it is important to note that due to global warming, the glacier has receded 2.82 kilometers since 1958. As you know, climate change causes glaciers to melt faster than expected. Although this thaw is, logically, a negative thing, the truth is that it has allowed researchers to discover vestiges of ancient trees that have been frozen for the last centuries. The offal appears to be up to 2,350 years old. Then we leave you with our Gallery, where you will find more beautiful images of the Mendenhall Glacier. Do not miss it!

Exploring Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska (April 2024)