Pleistocene Mountain Glaciation, Northern Vermont

Lateral moraines, end moraines, cirques, and outwash plains together demonstrate the former presence of local valley glaciers in the Green Mountains of northern Vermont. Two phases of valley glaciation are recognized. The earliest phase is represented by end moraines and stagnant ice features that are graded to outwash plains that in turn can be traced into deltas of Laurentide proglacial lakes. Comparison of delta elevations indicates that the moraines of the earliest phase are generally the same age but with minor differences. The second phase is indicated by cirque moraines and outwash plains. The earlier phase is definitely late Wood-fordian, but the absolute age of the later phase is uncertain. Although valley glaciers are recognized, the possibility of an ice cap in northern Vermont is considered unlikely.