The Columbia River is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It flows from British Columbia, Canada, through the U.S. states of Washington and Oregon, and empties into the Pacific Ocean near Astoria, Oregon. The Columbia River is roughly 1,243 mi (2,000 km) long and drains an area of about 258,000 sq mi (668,000 km2).
The Columbia River is a vital resource for the Pacific Northwest region. It provides water for drinking, irrigation, and hydropower. The river is also an important transportation route and supports a thriving fishing industry. The Columbia River is home to a variety of salmon, steelhead, and other fish species.