Snowdonia National Park

As I have never studied glaciers before either at school or university I have decided to make my first post as a mini case study relating to how glaciers have affected the physical appearance of the Snowdonia National Park (SNP). This is due to me having studied at the University of Wales, Bangor, where one of our group presentations touched on a little bit about the physical formation of SNP and as such seemed to be a sensible place to start.

Mini Case Study - Glacial effects on the physical formation of SNP

The current physical formation of the Snowdonia region originates from approximately 18,000 years ago during the last glacial maximum when the area became overlain with glaciers. Using abrasion, corrosion and pressure shearing the glaciers used their high erosive powers to create the distinct glacial landforms which can still be seen throughout the region today. Some such features include glacial lakes such as Llyn Peris and its twin Llyn Padarn. These are not only a source of beauty in the area but are also highly important for the local economy. Llyn Peris provides water for the local hydroelectric power station during periods of peak demand, with Llyn Padarn being the focal point of the Llanberis Lake Railway. Additionally, glacial erosional features also include 'U' shaped valleys such as that at Nant Ffrancon which make the area physically distinct.

   

Llyn Padarn Glacial Lake

  

                                                            

Nant Ffrancon 'U' Valley

In addition to the glacial erosion of the landscape, the build-up of sediment and debris (of said erosion) has affected the appearance of the area within and around the glaciers, further creating the current physical formation. This sediment and debris has led to the creation of glacial depositional features which characterise the area too. Moraines (which are deposits of unconsolidated rock debris beside a glacier) can be found throughout Snowdonia, as can glacial sediment fans, cwms and roche moutonnee’s (which will be discussed in more detail in later postings).

Roche Mountonee, Llyn Cau

As can be seen, glaciers have played a key part in the formation of the areas distinct physical landscape, (a lot of which is evidently some of the most beautiful in Britain), with it providing a back drop to the successful economy and historic culture of the area.

 

Snowdonia Mountain Range