A terminal moraine is a ridge of debris that forms at the end of a glacier. As the glacier moves, it picks up rocks and soil, which are then deposited when the glacier melts. This accumulation of material marks the furthest advance of the glacier, creating a natural barrier in the landscape. These moraines can vary in size and shape, often appearing as rolling hills or steep ridges. They are important for understanding past glacial activity and can be found in many places, including the Alps and Rocky Mountains. Terminal moraines also play a role in shaping local ecosystems and water drainage patterns.