Alpeiner Ferner, Alpine glacier in Neustift im Stubaital, Austria.
Alpeiner Ferner is a glacier in the northeastern Stubaier Alps, stretching across roughly 4.6 kilometers between elevations of 2930 and 3340 meters. The ice field lies within a broad valley surrounded by steep rock walls and snow-covered peaks.
The area was first documented in the 17th century as an alpine pasture area. By the 18th century, imperial attention brought scientific study to the glacier region, marking its transition from local resource to wider interest.
Local herders historically used the surrounding alpine meadows for grazing during summer months, shaping life in the valley. Today, the area draws hikers seeking to experience the high-altitude landscape.
The Franz Senn mountain hut at 2147 meters is the main base for approaching the glacier, reachable by hiking from Neustift. Weather at high altitude can change quickly, so warm layers and sturdy shoes are important for any visit.
Between 1997 and 2006, this glacier experienced rapid ice loss compared to most others in the region, making it valuable for climate research. Today you can see these changes in the landscape when comparing different elevations of the glacier's terminus.
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