Oregon, U.S. state in Pacific Northwest, United States.
Oregon stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the Columbia River, encompassing dense forests, mountains, fertile valleys, and high desert regions across 255,000 square kilometers. The terrain varies sharply between the misty coast, the forested mountains of the Cascade Range, and the open high plains to the east.
The area became the Oregon Territory through negotiations with Great Britain and joined the Union as the 33rd state on February 14, 1859. Settlers followed the Oregon Trail through the Rocky Mountains to establish themselves in the western valleys.
The state is known for public beaches without private access, inviting walking and lingering. People spend time in numerous state parks and natural areas, where camping and outdoor activities are part of everyday life.
The Willamette Valley holds most population centers like Portland, Salem, and Eugene, connected by Interstate 5 running north to south. The coast sits about two hours west of the cities, while the eastern high country is accessible through mountain passes.
The state produces a quarter of all timber in the United States and holds Crater Lake, the deepest body of water in North America, inside a volcanic caldera. The coast offers tide pools with sea anemones, starfish, and urchins accessible at low tide.
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