Hanging glaciers are glaciers that are located on steep mountain slopes, often found in areas like the Alps or the Rocky Mountains. They form when snow accumulates in a bowl-shaped depression called a cirque, where the conditions are cold enough to prevent melting. As the glacier grows, it can flow down the mountain but may become trapped on a ledge, creating a "hanging" appearance. These glaciers can be visually striking, often appearing to cling to cliffs or ridges. They are important indicators of climate change, as their size and stability can reflect shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns in their surrounding environments.