Taku Glacier

About

Taku Glacier, located in the Coast Mountains of Alaska, is a prominent tidewater glacier known for its exceptional thickness and depth. It is the largest glacier in the Juneau Icefield and one of the southernmost tidewater glaciers in the northern hemisphere. Originally named after local Tlingit peoples, it has been monitored since 1946. The glacier's thickness reaches approximately 4,845 feet, making it one of the thickest alpine temperate glaciers globally. Historically, Taku Glacier has shown a unique pattern of advance and retreat. It advanced significantly from the late 19th century until recent years, unlike many other glaciers affected by climate change. However, it began retreating in 2019. The glacier's behavior is influenced by its geometry and the presence of a moraine, which acts as an anchor. Its proximity to Juneau allows for extensive research, providing valuable insights into glacial dynamics and climate change impacts.