Algific Talus Slope EarthCache
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A very rare, natural refrigeration phenomena is located at the Bixby State Park. Very few algific slopes are open to the public, so be especially careful not to cause any damage at this location. Park at the CCC shelter just north of Bear Creek, cross the creek and you’ll see a stairway leading to the caves. If it’s a hot day, you will see fog and feel a cooling sensation – very eerie and refreshing!
Algific slopes was coined to describe this very unusual phenomena. Algific means cold air and talus means loose rocks. At one time, ice bulged from this cave, but now it’s only visible from the entrance. These North facing bluffs are protected from the harsh sun by their sharp angle as well as the vegetation around them. The porous dolomite and limestone provide an excellent network for chambers that allow air flow and water to seep in between the rocks. Some of these chambers extend a quarter of a mile into the hillside and are also connected to sink holes above the ice cave. During the winter, cold air permeates the bedrock to 30-40 feet below the surface. During the spring, water and snow melt through the loose rocks, and freezes upon contact with the super cooled air. During the summer, air inside the rock is colder and heavier than the outside air. The lower air pressure within the system draws in warm air. As the air comes in contact with the frozen groundwater, it cools and picks up humidity. When it becomes sufficiently heavy, it flows out through the slope’s vents and you’ll feel it just like air conditioning on a hot summer day.
During the winter, the air movement moves from outside to inside, and refreezes the groundwater. The temperature of the cave stays fairly constant at around 40F.
This flow of cool moist air also creates a unique micro-ecosystem that is full of rare flora and fauna. Take only pictures and leave no trace.
There are no facilities at this location – pack in and pack out. Enjoy the area and see some of the structures once built by the CCC.
Email me the answers to these Questions:
1) What is the temperature of the air coming out of the cave? What temperature is the air by your car?
2) How much ice did you see in the cave?
3) How far back do you think the cave goes?
Please stop by Backbone State Park and thank Ranger Dave for allowing this earthcache and for introducing us to Bixby.
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