Hubbard Glacier: 15 Facts

Introduction:

Hubbard Glacier, a magnificent tidewater glacier located in Alaska, is a sight to behold. This glacier is not only one of the most active glaciers in the world but also one of the most photogenic. In this article, we will explore 15 fascinating facts about Hubbard Glacier that will leave you in awe of this natural wonder.

Fact 1: Age and Size

Hubbard Glacier is an impressive 76 miles long and 1,200 feet deep, making it the largest tidewater glacier in North America. It is estimated to be around 400 years old, which is relatively young compared to some other glaciers in Alaska.

Fact 2: Location

This stunning glacier is situated in Disenchantment Bay, off the coast of Yakutat, Alaska. It flows from the remote Saint Elias Mountains and has a terminus that stretches over ten kilometers wide.

Fact 3: Ice Calving

One of the most spectacular sights at Hubbard Glacier is ice calving, where massive chunks of ice break off the glacier and crash into the bay below. The glacier is known for its frequent and impressive calving events, which draw visitors from all over the world.

Fact 4: Advancing Glacier

Unlike many glaciers around the world that are retreating due to climate change, Hubbard Glacier is actually advancing. This means that it is growing in size and pushing further into the bay, creating a stunning and ever-changing landscape.

Fact 5: Blue Ice

The ice of Hubbard Glacier is a striking shade of blue, which is a result of the dense ice absorbing the red and yellow wavelengths of sunlight, leaving only the blue light to be reflected back.

Fact 6: Hubbard Glacier Retreat

While Hubbard Glacier is currently advancing, it has also experienced periods of retreat in the past. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the glacier retreated significantly before starting to advance again in the mid-20th century.

Fact 7: Glacial Flour

As Hubbard Glacier grinds against the rock beneath it, it creates a fine powder known as glacial flour. This powder is carried downstream by rivers and streams, giving the water a distinctive milky turquoise color.

Fact 8: Hubbard Glacier Height

The ice at the terminus of Hubbard Glacier can reach heights of up to 400 feet above the waterline, making it an imposing sight for those lucky enough to witness it up close.

Fact 9: Iceberg Alley

The area around Hubbard Glacier is known as Iceberg Alley, due to the large number of icebergs that have broken off from the glacier and float in the bay. These icebergs come in various shapes and sizes, creating a stunning and ever-changing seascape.

Fact 10: Wildlife

Hubbard Glacier is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and otters that can often be seen lounging on the floating icebergs. Birdwatchers will also be delighted to spot bald eagles and various species of seabirds circling overhead.

Fact 11: Glacier Monitoring

Scientists closely monitor Hubbard Glacier to track its movement and behavior over time. This data helps researchers better understand the impact of climate change on glaciers and how they contribute to rising sea levels.

Fact 12: Hubbard Glacier Cruises

One of the best ways to experience the grandeur of Hubbard Glacier is by taking a cruise through Disenchantment Bay. Many cruise lines offer excursions that take passengers up close to the glacier, allowing them to witness its beauty and power firsthand.

Fact 13: Hubbard Glacier Formation

Hubbard Glacier was formed by the convergence of four glaciers that flow from the Mount Logan and Mount Vancouver areas. These glaciers merge together to create the massive ice flow that we see today.

Fact 14: Glacial Melting

While Hubbard Glacier is currently advancing, it is not immune to the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures are causing increased melting at the terminus of the glacier, which could eventually lead to a reversal in its current advance.

Fact 15: Hubbard Glacier Accessibility

Due to its remote location, Hubbard Glacier can only be accessed by boat or plane. This inaccessibility adds to the allure of the glacier, as visitors must make a special effort to witness its majestic beauty.

Conclusion

Hubbard Glacier is a natural marvel that continues to captivate and inspire all who have the privilege of experiencing it. Its immense size, stunning blue ice, and dramatic calving events make it a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. As one of the few advancing glaciers in the world, Hubbard Glacier serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between the forces of nature and the impact of human activity on our planet’s environment.