Detailed maps of rivers and lakes in Washington State

Detailed Map for every County in Washington State showing the network of rivers and lakes.

Adams County, Asotin County, Benton County, Chelan County, Clallam County, Clark County, Columbia County, Cowlitz County, Douglas County, Ferry County, Franklin County, Garfield County, Grant County, Grays Harbor County, Island County, Jefferson County, King County, Kitsap County, Kittitas County, Klickitat County, Lewis County, Lincoln County, Mason County, Okanogan County, Pacific County, Pend Oreille County, Pierce County, San Juan County, Skagit County, Skamania County, Snohomish County, Spokane County, Stevens County, Thurston County, Wahkiakum County, Walla Walla County, Whatcom County, Whitman County, Yakima County

Click on any one of these maps to see it in greater detail

Major Rivers and Lakes in Washington State

Washington State is home to a diverse array of rivers and lakes that play a significant role in shaping its landscapes, ecosystems, and human communities. From the mighty Columbia River, which dominates the southeastern region, to the serene waters of Lake Chelan nestled in the northern Cascades, these water bodies are not just geographical features but lifelines that support a rich tapestry of life and activity. Below is an overview of some of the most significant rivers and lakes in Washington, each with its unique characteristics and significance.

1. Columbia River

The Columbia River is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest and the fourth-largest river by volume in the United States. Originating from the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, Canada, it flows southward through the eastern part of Washington before forming much of the border with Oregon and eventually draining into the Pacific Ocean. The river’s vast drainage basin encompasses a diverse range of environments, from snow-capped mountains and fertile valleys to arid plateaus. The Columbia River is essential not only for its natural beauty but also for its economic significance, providing hydroelectric power, irrigation for agriculture, and a navigable waterway for trade and transportation. Dams along the Columbia, such as the Grand Coulee Dam, are pivotal in energy production but also impact the river’s ecology, particularly affecting salmon migration.

2. Snake River

The Snake River, a major tributary of the Columbia, originates in Wyoming and flows westward through Idaho before entering Washington. It traverses the southeastern part of the state, carving through deep canyons and creating dramatic landscapes before joining the Columbia River. The Snake River is known for its powerful flow and is a critical water source for agriculture in the region, particularly for the fertile Palouse area. The river also faces significant ecological challenges due to dam constructions that have altered its natural flow and impacted local fish populations, particularly the native salmon and steelhead trout.

3. Skagit River

Flowing from British Columbia into Washington, the Skagit River is one of the largest rivers in the state and the most significant in terms of salmon production. The river meanders through the lush Skagit Valley, known for its fertile farmlands and vibrant tulip fields, before emptying into the Puget Sound near Mount Vernon. The Skagit River is unique because it remains relatively undammed compared to other major rivers in Washington, preserving much of its natural flow and supporting diverse ecosystems, including critical habitats for Chinook, Coho, and Pink salmon. It is also a popular site for recreational activities like fishing, rafting, and bird watching.

4. Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan, a narrow, fjord-like lake situated in the northern Cascades, is one of the deepest lakes in the United States, plunging to depths of nearly 1,500 feet. The lake stretches over 50 miles from the city of Chelan in the east to the remote community of Stehekin at its western end. Surrounded by rugged mountains, Lake Chelan is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and the outdoor recreational opportunities it offers, from boating and fishing to hiking and camping. The lake is also a critical water source for the region and plays a significant role in local tourism and agriculture.

5. Moses Lake and Potholes Reservoir

Located in the central part of the state within the Columbia Basin, Moses Lake is a natural lake that has been significantly expanded by irrigation and agricultural development. Nearby, the Potholes Reservoir, created by the O’Sullivan Dam, is a large artificial reservoir that supports a unique ecosystem of wetlands, dunes, and shrub-steppe habitat. These water bodies are essential for the region’s agriculture, providing irrigation for crops like potatoes, corn, and alfalfa. They also support various recreational activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and water sports. The interplay of natural and man-made features creates a distinctive landscape that contrasts sharply with the surrounding arid areas.

6. Lake Washington

Lake Washington is the second-largest natural lake in the state, located between Seattle and Bellevue. Surrounded by urban development, this freshwater lake serves as a critical recreational area for the densely populated Puget Sound region. It is connected to Puget Sound by the Lake Washington Ship Canal, which includes the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. Lake Washington supports diverse wildlife and is a key habitat for various fish species, including the threatened Chinook salmon. The lake has undergone significant changes due to urbanization, but ongoing conservation efforts aim to improve water quality and protect its ecological integrity.

7. Other Notable Rivers and Lakes

Washington is also home to many other smaller yet significant rivers and lakes, each contributing to the state’s hydrological and ecological diversity. The Yakima River, for instance, is crucial for irrigation and agriculture in the Yakima Valley, while the Spokane River flows from Idaho through eastern Washington, supporting both urban and natural landscapes. Lakes such as Ross Lake, Baker Lake, and Rimrock Lake are popular for their recreational value and their role in local water management and conservation efforts.