Maclure Glacier

Maclure Glacier is a small cirque glacier nestled high in California's Sierra Nevada, situated at approximately 11,400 feet elevation. The frozen formation occupies a modest area within an alpine basin surrounded by rocky peaks and permanent snowfields.

The glacier was named after geologist William Maclure and became a subject of scientific study when John Muir began measuring it in 1872. Continuous observation since that time has provided important data on how glaciers respond to changing mountain conditions.

Local Native American peoples have long valued this area as a source of water and spiritual significance in the high country. The glacier and surrounding landscape remain meaningful to indigenous communities with ties to the Sierra Nevada region.

The glacier is best visited during summer when conditions are most stable and routes are clearer in the surrounding high country. Visitors should be prepared for high elevation terrain and bring appropriate mountaineering gear for safe travel in this alpine environment.

The glacier creeps forward at the slow rate of about one centimeter daily, yet maintains this steady pace year after year. This constant movement reveals how even the smallest glaciers in high mountain areas continue to flow and respond to their environment.

Location: Tuolumne County

GPS coordinates: 37.74667,-119.28278

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:03