Glacier Bay: Journey into the Bay of Thunder

As we proceed north, we pass one area where the glacier has disappeared. It has a beauty all it's own with blue - grey hills and it's ravines filled with *moraine. We proceed north to the Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers were take in the colours of the giant rivers of ice. We stop alongside the Margerie Glacier and the click of hundreds of cameras can be heard. Photos show the beauty of these giant rivers of ice, but to experience a glacier you have to be there.

The odor is of ancient ice. I cannot explain it. It's old, distinct and unique. It assails our nostrils. Then comes the sound. First we notice the continuous sound of creaking and crackling. Then we hear a loud crack!! Everyone searches trying to find where the calving will take place, cameras poised. Then there is the falling of small pieces of ice and perhaps bits of debris, which gives it away. This is the place!! Then another loud crack and sound of thunder is heard, as a huge piece of ice breaks away and falls into the water. It sends up a filmy, white spray of foam. The chunk of ice sinks, only to pop up in another spot away from the shore. Calving has taken place.

The area where the ice has broken off is even a deeper blue then before. Again it must be seen to be truly appreciated. Too soon is time to leave this glorious place. I will not forget Glacier Bay with it's awesome wildlife, scenic beauty and it's "rivers of thunder."

1*The denseness of the glacier ice, reflects light,absorbing all the colors, except blue, which reflects back out.

How glaciers are formed: See article.Click here.

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Mary Ellen Bradshaw

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