Washington State Maps
These maps show Washington States Counties, Cities, Federal Areas, Physiographic, and Ecoregion's.

The 39 Counties of Washington and Their Name Origins
- Adams County: Named for John Adams, the second President of the United States.
- Asotin County: Derived from a Nez Perce word meaning "place of eels."
- Benton County: Named after Missouri Senator Thomas Hart Benton.
- Chelan County: From a Native American word meaning "deep water."
- Clallam County: From a Klallam tribe word meaning "the strong people."
- Clark County: Named for William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
- Columbia County: Named for the Columbia River.
- Cowlitz County: Named for the Cowlitz Native American tribe.
- Douglas County: Named for Stephen A. Douglas, a politician from Illinois.
- Ferry County: Named for Elisha P. Ferry, the first Governor of Washington.
- Franklin County: Named for Benjamin Franklin.
- Garfield County: Named after President James A. Garfield.
- Grant County: Named after Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the U.S.
- Grays Harbor County: Named after Captain Robert Gray, an explorer.
- Island County: Named for the many islands in Puget Sound.
- Jefferson County: Named after President Thomas Jefferson.
- King County: Originally named for William R. King, but later rededicated to Martin Luther King Jr.
- Kitsap County: Named for Chief Kitsap of the Suquamish tribe.
- Kittitas County: Origin uncertain, possibly a Native American word meaning "grassy place."
- Klickitat County: Named for the Klickitat Native American tribe.
- Lewis County: Named for Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
- Lincoln County: Named after President Abraham Lincoln.
- Mason County: Named for Charles H. Mason, the first Secretary of Washington Territory.
- Okanogan County: Named after a Native American word meaning "rendezvous."
- Pacific County: Named for the Pacific Ocean.
- Pend Oreille County: Named after the Pend Oreille Native American tribe.
- Pierce County: Named for President Franklin Pierce.
- San Juan County: Named after St. John the Baptist (San Juan Bautista in Spanish).
- Skagit County: Named after the Skagit Native American tribe.
- Skamania County: From a Chinook word meaning "swift water."
- Snohomish County: Named for the Snohomish Native American tribe.
- Spokane County: Named after the Spokane Native American tribe, meaning "children of the sun."
- Stevens County: Named for Isaac I. Stevens, the first Governor of Washington Territory.
- Thurston County: Named after Samuel R. Thurston, the Oregon Territory's first delegate to Congress.
- Wahkiakum County: Named after Chief Wahkiakum of the Chinook tribe.
- Walla Walla County: From a Native American phrase meaning "many waters."
- Whatcom County: Named for a Native American word meaning "noisy water."
- Whitman County: Named after Marcus Whitman, an early missionary and pioneer.
- Yakima County: Named after the Yakama Native American tribe.

Washington State County Sizes Map
Smallest County in Washington State
San Juan County: 175 sq miles
Largest County in Washington State
Okanogan County: 5295 sq miles
Mean and Median Area of Counties in Washington State
Mean Area: 1769.89 sq miles
Median Area: 1785.00 sq miles

Major Cities of Washington State and Their Locations
In Washington State, most major cities are strategically located near coastal ports, river ports, or along historic transportation routes. Below are examples of each type:
1. Coastal Ports
Seattle: The largest city in Washington, Seattle is located on the Puget Sound, a major coastal port that has historically facilitated trade and shipping. Its waterfront has helped Seattle grow into an important economic and cultural hub.
Everett: Located to the north of Seattle, Everett is another significant coastal city with access to the Puget Sound and the Port of Everett, which has been a vital part of its industrial growth.
2. River Ports
Vancouver: Situated along the Columbia River, Vancouver is a major city that benefits from its river port. The city has historically been a transportation and trade hub due to its river access, supporting both shipping and agriculture in the region.
Pasco: Part of the Tri-Cities area, Pasco is located along the Columbia River, providing access to river shipping routes that have been critical for agriculture and industry in eastern Washington.
3. Historic Paths or Routes
Spokane: Spokane grew as a key stop along historic trade routes, such as the Northern Pacific Railway. Its location at a transportation crossroads helped it become a center of industry and commerce in eastern Washington.
Yakima: Located along historic routes used for trade and travel, Yakima's position near the Yakima River has historically made it a key agricultural hub and a gateway to Washington’s interior.

Topographic Tour of Washington
Washington State offers a diverse range of terrains, shaped by its unique geology, climate, and natural features. From the rugged mountain ranges to lush forests, and from dry plateaus to fertile valleys, the state presents a rich tapestry of landforms.
1. Coastal Lowlands
The western edge of Washington features low-lying coastal areas along the Pacific Ocean and the Puget Sound. This region includes tidal flats, estuaries, and wetlands. The Puget Sound Lowlands, where cities like Seattle and Tacoma are located, provide rolling hills and flatlands. This area is known for its moderate climate and rich soils that support agriculture and dense forests.
2. Cascade Mountain Range
Running north to south through the center of the state, the Cascade Range is one of Washington’s defining geographic features. This volcanic mountain range includes towering peaks like Mount Rainier (14,411 feet), Mount Adams, and Mount St. Helens, a volcano famous for its 1980 eruption. The western slopes of the Cascades are lush with forests due to the abundant rainfall, while the eastern slopes are much drier. These mountains also feature steep valleys, rugged cliffs, alpine meadows, and glaciers.
3. Columbia Plateau
East of the Cascade Range lies the Columbia Plateau, a vast, flat, and arid region stretching across much of eastern Washington. This area, shaped by ancient lava flows and later carved by Ice Age floods, features rolling hills, dry riverbeds, and the dramatic coulees (steep-walled canyons). The fertile soil in parts of this plateau supports large-scale agriculture, especially wheat and other grains.
4. Olympic Mountains
The Olympic Peninsula, located in the northwestern part of the state, is home to the Olympic Mountains, one of the wettest regions in the contiguous United States. These mountains are rugged, with steep slopes and dense, temperate rainforests on their western side. The interior of the range is more alpine, with glaciers and high mountain peaks like Mount Olympus. This region is protected within the Olympic National Park and is renowned for its biodiversity.
5. Palouse Hills
In the southeastern part of Washington, the rolling Palouse Hills are known for their undulating terrain. These loess hills, formed by wind-deposited silt during the Ice Ages, create a soft, rolling landscape ideal for wheat farming. The fertile soils of the Palouse support one of the largest wheat-growing regions in the country.
6. Cascade Foothills
Before the steep rise of the Cascade Mountains, the terrain transitions from the lowlands into the foothills, which feature gentle slopes, forested areas, and farmland. These foothills gradually increase in elevation and offer numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking and camping.
7. River Valleys
Washington is crisscrossed by several important river valleys. The Columbia River, which flows through the central and southern part of the state, has created deep valleys and gorges. The Yakima Valley, located in the central part of the state, is a particularly fertile agricultural area known for its vineyards, orchards, and hops production. The Skagit Valley in the northwest is also known for its rich farmland and tulip fields.
8. Eastern Washington Basins and Plains
The eastern side of the state consists of large basins and plains, including areas like the Quincy Basin and the Okanogan Highlands. This terrain is characterized by wide, flat expanses of arid land with scattered lakes and basalt rock formations left from volcanic activity and ancient floods. Much of this land is dry and semi-arid, receiving significantly less rainfall than western Washington.

Physiographic Regions of Washington State
Northern Rocky Mountains
The Northern Rocky Mountains region of Washington lies in the northeastern corner of the state. It is characterized by rugged terrain with sharp peaks and steep valleys. The region is known for its diverse wildlife and thick coniferous forests. Glaciation has shaped much of this area, creating striking mountain ranges and deep lakes.
Columbia Plateau - Blue Mountain
The Blue Mountains in southeastern Washington are part of the broader Columbia Plateau. This region features rolling hills and deep canyons. It is a combination of volcanic flows and sediments, and its semi-arid climate supports grasslands and sagebrush. The Blue Mountains rise prominently, providing a contrast to the surrounding plateau.
Columbia Plateau - Walla Walla Plateau
The Walla Walla Plateau is located in southeastern Washington and is a subregion of the Columbia Plateau. This area is notable for its fertile soils, which make it a prime agricultural zone. The landscape consists of rolling plains, river valleys, and occasional buttes, with agriculture—especially wheat farming—dominating the land use.
Cascade-Sierra Mountains - Middle Cascade Mountains
The Middle Cascade Mountains run through central Washington, forming part of the Cascade Range. This area is known for its volcanic peaks, including Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens. Dense forests of evergreen trees cover the slopes, and the region experiences significant snowfall, making it a hub for winter recreation.
Pacific Border - Puget Trough
The Puget Trough, also known as the Puget Lowland, is a flat, low-lying region that stretches from the Canadian border to the southern part of Washington. It lies between the Olympic Mountains to the west and the Cascade Range to the east. This area is the most populous in Washington, home to major cities like Seattle and Tacoma. The fertile soils and access to the Pacific Ocean make it vital for agriculture and trade.
Pacific Border - Oregon Coast Range
While the Oregon Coast Range primarily lies in Oregon, it extends into southwestern Washington. This region is characterized by low mountain ranges covered in dense forests, with a cool, moist climate. Logging is a significant industry here, and the rivers and streams offer important habitats for fish and wildlife.
Pacific Border - Olympic Mountains
The Olympic Mountains dominate the Olympic Peninsula in northwestern Washington. This rugged region is known for its high peaks, deep valleys, and extensive rainfall, which creates temperate rainforests on the western slopes. The mountains are part of Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and are home to diverse ecosystems and unique species.
Cascade-Sierra Mountains - Northern Cascade Mountains
The Northern Cascade Mountains in Washington form the northernmost section of the Cascade Range. These mountains are famous for their dramatic, rugged terrain, glaciated peaks, and alpine environments. North Cascades National Park, located here, protects a vast wilderness area. The Northern Cascades are less developed compared to the southern parts of the range, making it a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering.

Notable Federal Lands: Some of the Largest and Most Fascinating Destinations in Washington
1. Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park is one of the crown jewels of Washington's federal lands. Established in 1899, it encompasses the iconic Mount Rainier, a 14,411-foot stratovolcano that dominates the state's skyline. The park offers diverse ecosystems, from lush old-growth forests to subalpine meadows, and is known for its extensive hiking trails, stunning vistas, and glaciers. Visitors can explore scenic drives, campgrounds, and numerous trails, making it a prime destination for both casual tourists and serious outdoor enthusiasts.
2. North Cascades National Park
Located in northern Washington, North Cascades National Park is a wilderness paradise filled with jagged mountain peaks, over 300 glaciers, and dense forests. Known as the "American Alps," the park offers challenging hikes, backcountry camping, and breathtaking scenery. It is one of the most rugged and least developed national parks in the U.S., which adds to its appeal for adventurers seeking solitude and pristine wilderness.
3. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, located on the Olympic Peninsula, is renowned for its unique ecosystems and incredible biodiversity. The park features three distinct environments: the rugged Pacific coastline, temperate rainforests, and alpine peaks. Visitors can experience everything from tide pools and driftwood-strewn beaches to moss-covered trees and snow-capped mountains. Olympic National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering exceptional hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping opportunities.
4. Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Gifford Pinchot National Forest is one of the oldest national forests in the United States, stretching across 1.3 million acres in southwestern Washington. The forest contains portions of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, showcasing the aftermath of the famous 1980 eruption. With its diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to deep forests, Gifford Pinchot offers a range of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and exploring geothermal features.
5. San Juan Islands National Monument
Located in the northern reaches of Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands National Monument consists of several islands and rocks that protect important natural and cultural resources. This area is known for its stunning marine environment, rocky shorelines, and scenic beauty. Visitors can engage in activities like kayaking, wildlife viewing (including orcas), and exploring tide pools. The San Juan Islands are also rich in history, with numerous sites related to early exploration and settlement.
6. Hanford Reach National Monument
Hanford Reach National Monument preserves a unique area of the Columbia River and its surrounding ecosystems. It is known for its undisturbed shrub-steppe habitat and the last free-flowing section of the Columbia River in the U.S. The monument also protects a significant piece of American history, as it includes part of the former Hanford Nuclear Reservation. Visitors can explore the river, observe wildlife, and learn about the site's role in the Manhattan Project.
7. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest spans over 4 million acres and extends from the Canadian border to central Washington. The forest covers a wide range of environments, from dry eastern slopes to the wetter, forested west. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, skiing, and mountain biking. Popular destinations within the forest include the Enchantments, a stunning alpine area, and the Methow Valley, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation.
8. Columbia National Wildlife Refuge
Located in the heart of the Columbia Basin, Columbia National Wildlife Refuge protects a mix of wetlands, lakes, and desert habitat. It is a haven for migratory birds and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. The refuge is also a prime location for hiking and photography, with its unique geological formations created by ancient floods and volcanic activity.

Ecoregions of Washington
Blue Mountains Section
The Blue Mountains ecoregion is located in the southeastern part of Washington, extending into Oregon. This region is characterized by steep, rugged terrain and deep canyons. The landscape is composed of coniferous forests, including ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir, and it is shaped by volcanic activity. The Blue Mountains support a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and raptors, and it is a significant area for forestry and recreation.
Columbia Basin Section
The Columbia Basin is a vast ecoregion in central Washington, defined by its arid and semi-arid climate. This region is mostly a dry plateau formed by ancient volcanic lava flows and is known for its expansive sagebrush steppe and desert grasslands. The Columbia River and its tributaries provide critical water resources for agriculture, making this region one of the most important farming areas in Washington. Irrigation has transformed parts of the Columbia Basin into fertile farmlands, though natural habitats have been significantly altered.
Eastern Cascades Section
The Eastern Cascades ecoregion lies on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Range, where the wet, forested environment transitions into drier landscapes. This area features mixed conifer forests, including lodgepole pine and ponderosa pine, along with patches of grassland. The climate is more arid than the western Cascades, and this region plays a critical role in timber production, grazing, and recreation, including hiking and camping.
Okanogan Highlands Section
The Okanogan Highlands ecoregion, located in north-central Washington, is a high-elevation area dominated by forested hills and valleys. This region is notable for its dry, continental climate, and the forests here include a mix of conifers such as lodgepole pine, western larch, and Douglas-fir. The Okanogan Highlands support a range of wildlife, including moose, bears, and mountain lions. This area also has a history of mining, though it is now more focused on conservation and recreation.
Oregon and Washington Coast Ranges Section
The Oregon and Washington Coast Ranges form a rugged, forested ecoregion along the Pacific coastline. In Washington, this region encompasses the western slopes of the Olympic Mountains and extends down into coastal forest areas. The temperate rainforests here are dominated by towering coniferous trees, including Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and Douglas-fir. The high rainfall in this area supports lush vegetation and a rich diversity of wildlife. Logging, fishing, and recreation are significant economic activities in this region.
Palouse Prairie Section
The Palouse Prairie ecoregion is found in southeastern Washington and is characterized by its rolling hills and deep, fertile soils. This region was once covered with tall grass prairies and bunchgrasses, but today it is primarily used for agriculture, especially wheat and legume farming. The Palouse Prairie has been heavily altered by human activity, and native prairie ecosystems are now rare. Efforts are being made to restore some of the natural habitats in this region.
Western Cascades Section
The Western Cascades ecoregion lies on the western slopes of the Cascade Range and is known for its dense, temperate rainforests. This region receives high levels of precipitation, resulting in lush forests dominated by Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and redcedar. The Western Cascades have many streams, rivers, and waterfalls, and are a critical source of freshwater for the state. This ecoregion supports diverse ecosystems, from old-growth forests to alpine environments. It is a popular area for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.
Willamette Valley and Puget Trough Section
The Willamette Valley and Puget Trough ecoregion stretches from Oregon’s Willamette Valley up into Washington’s Puget Lowland. It is a low-lying, fertile area that has been significantly transformed by agriculture, urbanization, and industrial development. This region is home to Washington’s largest population centers, including Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia. Despite extensive development, the region includes important wetlands, estuaries, and prairies that support a wide range of wildlife, including migratory birds. Efforts to conserve natural habitats are ongoing in this highly developed region.