Gorner Glacier, Valley glacier in Valais, Switzerland
Gorner Glacier is a valley glacier in the Monte Rosa massif that extends across the high Alpine terrain and receives meltwater from several tributary glaciers. The ice field dominates the landscape with its broad, crevassed surface and creates a dramatic natural feature visible from multiple viewpoints in the region.
The glacier reached its peak size in the middle of the 1800s and has retreated significantly since then. This long-term shrinkage reflects how climate shifts have affected Alpine ice formations.
The glacier draws visitors from around the world who arrive by mountain railway to experience the Alps firsthand. It represents an important part of how people connect with high mountain landscapes today.
The best way to see this glacier is by taking the rack railway from Zermatt, which carries visitors to high viewpoints overlooking the ice field. From these elevated spots, you can take in the scale of the landscape without needing to hike across the glacier itself.
A lake forms at the glacier's edge each year and naturally drains away, sometimes causing sudden flood surges downstream. This meltwater flow has been channeled into a major hydroelectric facility that powers the surrounding region.
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