University of Utah researchers reveal massive ice volume in Timpanogos Rock Glacier

University of Utah researchers have utilized a novel 3D imaging technique to reveal the massive volume of ice hidden beneath the Timpanogos Rock Glacier. By measuring minute differences in gravitational pull using a gravimeter, the team determined that the glacier contains approximately 1.5 million cubic meters of ice. This volume is equivalent to the amount of water needed to fill 600 Olympic-sized swimming pools or the volume of the largest pyramid in Giza.

The study found that the Timpanogos Rock Glacier is remarkably ice-rich, consisting of 83% ice and 17% loose rock. Unlike conventional glaciers, rock glaciers appear as mere piles of rubble, often obscuring ice depths of up to 120 feet. This research highlights the significant amount of unaccounted-for frozen water stored within the Wasatch and Uinta ranges.