Lednik Akkem, Alpine glacier in Altai Mountains, Russia
Lednik Akkem is a glacier in the Altai Mountains that spreads across high terrain with numerous crevasses visible across its white surface. The ice formation sits within a dramatic valley surrounded by rock walls and connected peaks.
This glacier formed during the last ice age and has retreated noticeably since the early 1900s. The pace of its shrinking has accelerated in recent decades as mountain temperatures have risen.
Local Altai communities regard the glacier and its surrounding peaks as spiritual landmarks, incorporating them into traditional ceremonies and folklore.
Reaching this glacier requires hiking from the Akkem Valley base camp, which takes several hours across mountain terrain. The best months for visiting are July through September when snow coverage is lowest and trails are most accessible.
Meltwater from this glacier feeds the Akkem River system that creates braided streams and supports rare alpine plants found nowhere else in the region. The constant flow of glacial water shapes the surrounding landscape throughout the year.
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