Konwakiton Glacier

Konwakiton Glacier sits on the southern face of Mount Shasta and forms a large expanse of ice high on the mountain. The frozen mass flows across the slope between rocky ridges and creates a striking white band when viewed from below.

This glacier grew during a period when most ice masses worldwide were shrinking, making it an unusual case in mountaineering history. Scientists tracked its changes over several decades to understand the reasons for its different behavior.

The glacier stands near the standard climbing route of Avalanche Gulch, making it the most frequently visited glacier among Mount Shasta's seven ice formations.

Reaching this site demands mountaineering skills and specialized gear such as crampons and climbing ropes. Visitors need prior experience with alpine terrain and should plan for a full day of physical effort.

A deep crevasse splits the glacier surface and runs parallel to the main climbing path, serving as a natural marker for mountaineers. This feature reveals how the ice moves and shifts beneath the snow cover that passes above it.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 41.39972,-122.19528

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:41