Matanuska Glacier, the largest glacier in Alaska accessible by car, is not your typical glacier. It is 100 miles northeast of Anchorage, and ice climbers and hikers often traverse its icy peaks and slopes in short sleeves because of a weather hole that creates comfortable and sunny conditions. Enjoy this glacier and others while they last. Groups such as the U.S. Geological Survey report that glaciers are retreating faster than ever. L.A. Times staff photographer Robert Gauthier captured the Matanuska Glacier's landscapes of frozen and melting ice.
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