Ice Age erosion may explain Appalachians' smoother northern peaks
Phys.org
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hiking north along the Appalachian Trail reveals a striking transformation in the landscape. While the terrain in Tennessee and Virginia features rugged, steep ridgelines, further north in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the scenery softens into broad summits and smoother peaks. According to new research by William & Mary Assistant Professor of Geology Joanmarie Del Vecchio, this shift in topography is linked to ancient geological processes dating back to the Ice Age. Her study suggests that glacial erosion during this period played a significant role in shaping the northern Appalachian Mountains, smoothing out the landscape over time.
Del Vecchio’s research highlights how ice age glaciers carved and shaped the region’s peaks. These glaciers moved across the landmass, grinding down rock formations and creating the smoother, more rounded features seen today in areas like Pennsylvania and New Jersey. In contrast, the southern sections of the Appalachian Mountains retained their sharper ridgelines because they were less affected by glacial activity. This difference underscores the profound impact of Ice Age erosion on the region’s geological history.
Understanding these ancient processes not only deepens our knowledge of Earth’s history but also has practical implications for modern land management and conservation efforts. By studying how glaciers shaped the Appalachian landscape, scientists can gain insights into similar geological phenomena elsewhere and better predict how natural environments might change in the future. Del Vecchio’s work emphasizes the importance of connecting present-day landscapes to their ancient origins, offering a bridge between the past and present.
This research matters because it helps us piece together the puzzle of Earth’s dynamic history, revealing how different forces shape our world over millions of years. For science enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, this study offers a fascinating glimpse into the forces that have sculpted the Appalachian Mountains we see today. It also underscores the value of studying
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/24/2026