Lesson of The Month - Introduction to Glaciers
The study of glaciers or glaciology is a strict and complex science. And we could spend hours, days and even years discussing all the intricate facets. However, for mountaineers, understanding some simple basics is important. This month we will explain types of glaciers, their formation and the various parts that make up a glacier.
First, there are two main types of glaciers. The first type of glacier is known as Continental Glaciers. These glaciers cover large masses of land and Antarctica and Greenland are the only existing Continental Glaciers. To give you an idea of how large these glaciers are if Greenland's ice sheet melted it would raise ocean water levels 20 feet around the world. If Antarctica's ice sheet melted it would raise ocean water levels 210 feet.
The second type of glacer is Alpine Glaciers, which are found in mountainous regions. Large alpine glaciers can cover an entire mountain, mountain chain or even a volcano as is the case on Mount Rainier. This type of alpine glacier is known as an ice cap, which feeds tongues of ice that can stretch into valleys below.
The formation of glaciers is a slow and gradual process of freezing and thawing. Snow through this process becomes what is known as neve. With pressure from the ice and snow above the ice fuses into firn. Over a period of years layers of firn become further compacted and thus become glacial ice.
The lower part of a glacier known as the foot or terminal is the deposition or ablation zone. Ice in this area is lost to melting. On the other end towards the upper part of the glacier which receives the majority of snowfall is the accumulation zone.
The altitude where the ablation zone meets the accumulation zone is known as the equilibrium line. Health of glaciers are determined by the comparison of the accumulation zone to the ablation zone. Healthy glaciers have large accumulation zones.
Having a beginning understanding of glaciers through the types, their formation and various parts will allow you to get more in-depth. Next month we will continue learning about glaciers.
Robert Link - One For the History Books
On September 3rd, Robert Link made the summit of Mount Rainier for the 300th time! He is one of seven climbers in the world to do so. Robert was 12 years old when he first topped out on the 14,410 foot volcano in Washington State. Decades and 299 summits later, Robert is still going strong as one of Mount Rainier's most highly respected mountain guides. Congratulations Robert.
Watch Robert on Network News On the link scroll down and click on "Sports Video" and you will see Robert's interview titled, "Sporting Life: Bend Man Reaches 300th Climb".
Up-coming International Seminars & Expeditions
Mexico Ixta & Orizaba: November 12 - 21
These two picturesque volcanoes are a great introduction to high-altitude mountaineering. Both trips are designed as a quick escape from the United States and a logical next step after a climb on Rainier, Shasta or Whitney.
Ecuador Mountaineering Seminar: November 7 - 18
This course is designed specifically for those who want to learn basic and advanced mountaineering techniques while getting high-altitude experience. In twelve packed days, attempt to summit two of Ecuador's finest and highest; Cayambe and Cotopaxi.
Argentina Aconcagua Seven Summit Expedition: 4 Expeditions scheduled
The highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere, Aconcagua is a huge mass of windswept rock and glaciers. Our route is technically straightforward, but the altitude makes this a challenging expedition. A great introduction to expedition-style mountaineering.
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Mountain Link is currently organizing a small team to tackle the toughest mountain on Earth. Please call 800-408-8949 for a consultation on qualifications. Mountain Link will only allow an absolute maximum of six climbers on an Everest Expedition. Call now for more information.
A classic Himalayan climb! Located in the Khumbu region of Eastern Nepal along the Tibetan border, Cho Oyu is the sixth highest mountain in the world. In the fall there are literally hundreds of people climbing Cho Oyu. Last spring, on Mountain Link's summit day, we were the only ones on the mountain. Enjoy the solitude of climbing an 8000 meter peak. Please call 800-408-8949 for consultation on qualifications. Team size limited to six climbers.
