Central Washington facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Central Washington
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Region
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Map of Central Washington. Counties highlighted in red are always included, while counties highlighted in pink are sometimes included.
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| Country | United States |
| State | Washington |
Central Washington is a special area in the state of Washington, USA. It sits right between the western and eastern parts of the state. This region stretches from the border with Canada in the north all the way down to the border with Oregon in the south. On its western side, you'll find the tall Cascade Range mountains. To the east, it generally reaches near the 119th meridian west line.
Central Washington is often split into two smaller parts: North Central and South Central. The Washington State Department of Transportation uses these names for their local offices.
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Exploring North Central Washington
North Central Washington, often called NCW, includes counties like Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan. Some groups, like the Washington State Department of Transportation and the North Central Regional Library, also include Grant County. The library system and the Heritage Museum even add Ferry County. The biggest city in this northern part is Wenatchee.
Discovering South Central Washington
South Central Washington includes counties such as Benton, Kittitas, Klickitat, and Yakima. The Department of Transportation also includes all counties south of the Snake River in this area. The largest city in this southern region is Yakima. If you include Benton and Franklin counties, then the Tri-Cities area becomes the largest urban spot and the center of the biggest metro area here.
Counties of Central Washington
Central Washington is made up of these counties:
Major Cities in Central Washington
Here are some of the important cities you'll find in Central Washington:
Colleges and Universities
Central Washington is home to several colleges and universities where students can continue their education:
- Central Washington University in Ellensburg
- Washington State University Tri-Cities in Richland
- Heritage University in Toppenish
- Columbia Basin College in Pasco
- Wenatchee Valley College in Wenatchee
- Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake
- Yakima Valley College in Yakima
Notable Mountain Ranges
The region features several impressive mountain ranges, adding to its natural beauty:
