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Why You Should Visit the Northwestern US

By Angela Brown, About.com

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Scenic Beauty

Cape Disappointment

Cape Disappointment

© Andrew Cier

Rugged Coastline
The Northwest region is bounded on the west by the Pacific Ocean; the ocean beaches are wild and rugged. Beachcombing, kite flying, and storm watching are popular activities along the Oregon and Washington coast.

Puget Sound
The Puget Sound provides miles of waterfront destinations and is filled with unique island communities and fascinating wildlife.

River Gorges
Steep-sided river valleys make for some gorgeous scenery and exciting recreational opportunities. The Columbia, Snake, and Rogue rivers create some of the major gorges found in the Northwest.

Temperate Rain Forests
Found in coastal areas, these dense moss-covered forests are a green wonderland.

Lakes & Mountains
You'll find hundreds of lakes and rivers throughout the Northwest, ranging from tiny to huge. The mountainous terrain combines with all this water to create many spectacular waterfalls.

The Bounty of Nature
The Northwest is home to a thriving agriculture industry. The regions orchards, fields, and vineyards provide their own scenic beauty.

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