Two Distinct Regions
The Cascades Mountain Range divides the Northwest into two distinct regions. West of the mountains the climate is wet and mild. East of the mountains the weather is drier and more extreme, with cold snowy winters and long hot summers.
Water, Water, Everywhere
Water is part of life in the Northwest, providing abundant opportunities to enjoy recreation and scenery. To the west you'll find the Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound. The entire region is dotted with lakes and rivers.
Dry Desert Conditions
The region that lies between the Cascades and Rocky Mountain Ranges is desert country. The terrain is flat and covered with sagebrush, junipers, and volcanic rocks.
Unique Geologic Wonders
The landscape of the Northwestern United States includes active and dormant volcanoes, fossil beds, river gorges, sand dunes, and glaciers.
