Copyright: USDA Forest Service
Mount St. Helens
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Description - Washington state has seen a surge of popularity in the last decade. Fortunately this population growth hasn't drastically affected the natural landscape. One third of the state is preserved through federal lands. Washington has an abundance of National Forests. There are six national forests within the state.
Attractions
- Washington's National Forests include Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie, Gifford Pinchot, Wenatchee, Okanogan, Colville, and Olympic National Forest.
Recreation - Recreational opportunities are abundant within the National Forests and include, hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, motorcycle riding, fishing, wildlife viewing, alpine skiing, and snow shoeing to name a few. Climate - Washington's climate varies with each region. The Cascades split the state and alter weather patterns. The terrain east of the mountains receives significantly less rainfall than that west of the mountains, 12 inches is the annual average. Temperatures in this region are lower during the winter months, because it is landlocked. Frequent winds coming down from the mountains also contribute to the low temperatures of eastern Washington. Western Washington is temperate, due to the coastal geography. The water is a stabilizing force for the climate, making extreme temperatures rare. The area receives large amounts of rainfall from Pacific storms and some snow during winter months. The mountains of Washington receive large amounts of water-laden snow from October through May. These peaks remain snow covered throughout the year. Location -
Washington State is located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The National Forests are located throughout the state with the majority of them concentrated along the Cascades, just east of the coastline.
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