Alpenglow

/ˈælpənɡloʊ/ noun

Definition

A beautiful reddish or golden glow that appears on high mountain peaks just after sunset or before sunrise, caused by sunlight reflecting through the atmosphere.

Etymology

From German 'Alpenglühen' (Alpen + Glühen, meaning 'Alps' + 'glow'). Combined from 'Alpen' (the Alps) and 'Glühen' (to glow or shine), the term was adopted into English by mountaineers and naturalists in the 19th century.

Kelly Says

Alpenglow is literally the last light show of the day—the sun hits the high peaks from below the horizon and sets them on fire with color. Mountain climbers used to time their expeditions to catch this moment, treating it like nature's own spotlight performance.

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