Washington
The Cascade Range divides Washington into western and eastern halves, which differ considerably in climate and topography. Western ecosystems vary from coastal areas to moist forests; eastern ecosystems range from pine woods to dry grass-and-brush steppes, from deep river valleys to lakes and marshes. Curiously, the hot-summer "dry" east side has more wetlands and marshes than the cool-summer "wet" west side of the state. Both sections have alpine fells, which on the east side have two timberlines: one on the upper slopes (where forests are restricted by the heavy snows and frosts of an alpine climate), and another on the lower slopes (where tree growth is limited by lack of moisture).
Seattle residents practically ignore their terrific city. They're that obsessed with the outdoors, mountain hiking to the north... (more)
