Rivers play a vital role in shaping the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the United States. From supplying water to supporting recreation and tourism, these waterways are the lifeblood of many communities. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 US states with their best rivers, delving into the beauty and importance of these magnificent bodies of water.
1. Alaska
Alaska, the largest state in the US, is home to numerous rivers that meander through its vast wilderness.
Yukon River
Stretching over 1,900 miles, the mighty Yukon River is the longest in Alaska and the third longest in the US. Originating from British Columbia, Canada, it flows through the heart of Alaska and empties into the Bering Sea.
Kuskokwim River
The Kuskokwim River, at about 702 miles long, is the second-longest river in Alaska. It provides critical habitat for salmon and plays a significant role in the lives of the Yup’ik Eskimo people who live along its banks.
2. Montana
Montana is known as the “Big Sky Country” due to its wide-open spaces, and rivers play a vital role in its landscape.
Missouri River
The Missouri River, the longest river in North America, originates in Montana. Covering a length of 2,341 miles, it flows through multiple states before joining the Mississippi River.
Yellowstone River
The Yellowstone River, the longest undammed river in the contiguous US, stretches for 692 miles. It begins in the Rocky Mountains and winds its way through Yellowstone National Park, ultimately joining the Missouri River in North Dakota. (read also about the impact that wolves had on the Yellowstone river)
3. Texas
Texas, the second-largest state, boasts numerous rivers that enrich its diverse landscape.
Rio Grande
The Rio Grande, a vital water source for both Texas and Mexico, stretches 1,896 miles. Forming part of the US-Mexico border, it offers breathtaking landscapes, such as the Big Bend National Park.
Brazos River
The Brazos River, the longest river solely in Texas, spans 840 miles. Known for its historical significance, it played a crucial role in the state’s early development and settlement.
4. California
California, a state with an extensive coastline and varied topography, has numerous rivers that contribute to its beauty and ecology.
Sacramento River
The Sacramento River, California’s longest and largest river, spans 447 miles. It originates in the Klamath Mountains and flows through the Central Valley before emptying into the San Francisco Bay.
San Joaquin River
The San Joaquin River, stretching for 365 miles, is the second-longest river in California. It begins in the Sierra Nevada and flows through the Central Valley, ultimately joining the Sacramento River to form the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.
5. Colorado
Colorado, known for its Rocky Mountain landscape, is home to numerous rivers that shape its terrain.
Colorado River
The Colorado River, stretching over 1,450 miles, is one of the most crucial water sources in the American Southwest. Originating in the Rocky Mountains, it flows through seven states and Mexico, providing water to millions of people and countless ecosystems.
Arkansas River
The Arkansas River, originating in Colorado, spans 1,469 miles and flows through multiple states before joining the Mississippi River. This vital waterway supports agriculture, wildlife, and recreational activities.
6. Idaho
Idaho, a state known for its rugged wilderness, is home to numerous rivers that provide essential water resources.
Snake River
The Snake River, stretching over 1,078 miles, is the largest tributary of the Columbia River. It originates in Wyoming and flows through Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, supporting agriculture, hydroelectric power, and recreation.
Salmon River
The Salmon River, also known as the “River of No Return,” spans 425 miles. It is a significant tributary of the Snake River and provides habitat for various fish species, including endangered salmon and steelhead.
7. Oregon
Oregon, with its lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems, is home to many rivers that enrich its environment.
Columbia River
The Columbia River, the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, spans 1,243 miles. It originates in British Columbia, Canada, and flows through Washington and Oregon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. The river is a critical water source for hydroelectric power and transportation.
Willamette River
The Willamette River, a major tributary of the Columbia River, stretches for 187 miles. It flows through the heart of Oregon, supporting agriculture, wildlife, and recreation.
8. Wyoming
Wyoming, a state known for its stunning landscapes, is home to numerous rivers that contribute to its natural beauty.
Green River
The Green River, a primary tributary of the Colorado River, spans 730 miles. It originates in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming and flows through Utah and Colorado before joining the Colorado River.
Bighorn River
The Bighorn River, a tributary of the Yellowstone River, stretches for 461 miles. It flows through Wyoming and Montana, offering exceptional fishing and breathtaking scenery.
9. Washington
Washington, a state with diverse landscapes, is home to numerous rivers that contribute to its ecology and natural beauty.
Skagit River
The Skagit River, stretching for 150 miles, is the largest river flowing into Puget Sound. It originates in the Cascade Range and supports numerous fish species, including salmon and steelhead.
Snohomish River
The Snohomish River, spanning 78 miles, is formed by the confluence of the Skykomish and Snoqualmie Rivers. It flows through western Washington, providing important habitat for fish and wildlife.
10. Minnesota
Minnesota, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” is home to numerous rivers that contribute to its vibrant ecosystem and scenic beauty.
Mississippi River
The Mississippi River, the second-longest river in the United States, originates at Lake Itasca in Minnesota. Spanning 2,320 miles, it flows through ten states before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.
Minnesota River
The Minnesota River, a tributary of the Mississippi River, stretches for 332 miles. It flows through the southern part of the state, shaping the landscape and providing a habitat for various fish and wildlife species.
Conclusion
The United States boasts a remarkable array of rivers that crisscross its diverse landscapes, providing essential water resources, supporting ecosystems, and offering recreational opportunities. These top 10 states, from Alaska to Washington, showcase some of the most significant and awe-inspiring rivers that make the US a truly unique and beautiful country.
Bonus: which are the wettest states?
How much of your state is water-covered? Discover the highest water percentage state and compare the West’s aridity. The table displays each state’s total land and perennial water areas.
| State | Percent area, water |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 3.40% |
| Alaska | 14.20% |
| Arizona | 0.30% |
| Arkansas | 2.10% |
| California | 4.80% |
| Colorado | 0.40% |
| Connecticut | 12.60% |
| Delaware | 21.70% |
| District of Columbia | 10.30% |
| Florida | 18.50% |
| Georgia | 3.20% |
| Hawaii | 41.20% |
| Idaho | 1.10% |
| Illinois | 4.10% |
| Indiana | 1.60% |
| Iowa | 0.70% |
| Kansas | 0.60% |
| Kentucky | 2.30% |
| Louisiana | 17.50% |
| Maine | 12.80% |
| Maryland | 21.80% |
| Massachusetts | 26.1 % |
| Michigan | 41.50% |
| Minnesota | 8.40% |
| Mississippi | 3.10% |
| Missouri | 1.40% |
| Montana | 1.00% |
| Nebraska | 0.70% |
| Nevada | 0.70% |
| New Hampshire | 4.20% |
| New Jersey | 15.70% |
| New Mexico | 0.20% |
| New York | 13.60% |
| North Carolina | 9.70% |
| North Dakota | 2.40% |
| Ohio | 8.80% |
| Oklahoma | 1.90% |
| Oregon | 2.40% |
| Pennsylvania | 2.80% |
| Rhode Island | 33.10% |
| South Carolina | 6.10% |
| South Dakota | 1.70% |
| Tennessee | 2.20% |
| Texas | 2.70% |
| Utah | 3.20% |
| Vermont | 4.20% |
| Virginia | 7.70% |
| Washington | 6.80% |
| West Virginia | 0.80% |
| Wisconsin | 17.30% |
| Wyoming | 0.70% |
| United States | 7.00% |
The table highlights each US state’s water coverage percentage. Hawaii and Michigan have the highest percentages, 41.2%, and 41.5% respectively, while New Mexico and Arizona have the lowest, 0.2% and 0.3%. The national average is 7%.
We also wrote about rivers in Florida (exploring the Ichetucknee River’s Depth) and Pennsylvania (unraveling the Lehigh River’s Depths) and New York (Brooklyn’s River Revival: Unveiling the Borough’s Aquatic Secrets).
Not to miss also: Top 10 Rivers for a Lifetime: Journey to Earth’s Aquatic Wonders
FAQs
Which state has the most rivers in the US?
Alaska, the largest state in the US, is home to numerous rivers, including the Yukon and Kuskokwim rivers.
Which is the longest river in the United States?
The Missouri River, originating in Montana, is the longest river in the US, covering a length of 2,341 miles.
What is the longest undammed river in the contiguous United States?
The Yellowstone River, stretching for 692 miles, is the longest undammed river in the contiguous US.
Which river is a major water source for both Texas and Mexico?
The Rio Grande is a vital water source for both Texas and Mexico, stretching 1,896 miles and forming part of the US-Mexico border.
What is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest?
The Columbia River, spanning 1,243 miles, is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, flowing through British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon before emptying into the Pacific Ocean.
