Evidence for A Late-Wisconsinan Cirque Glacier in King Ravine, Northern Presidential Range, New Hampshire, U.S.A.: Alternative Interpretations

Abstract

Large boulders of a lithology typical of the headwall and floor of the King Ravine cirque in New Hampshire's Presidential Range are found in the deposits of the valley below. The implied northerly transport of these boulders suggests post- or late Wisconsinan cirque glacier activity in the ravine. This has led to a number of assertions regarding post- or late Wisconsinan cirque activity elsewhere on the Presidential Range.

Stone counts, a review of lithologic considerations, and stratigraphic exposures with evidence for possible colluvial (debris flow) deposition indicate previously cited evidence for northward ice transport is equivocal and alternate transport mechanisms are possible. Proposals suggesting late Wisconsinan cirque glaciation in the entire Presidential Range, based upon the evidence in the vicinity of King Ravine, do not appear to be well supported.