Understanding the East and West Coasts of the United States

Australians often refer to the coastal regions in the eastern part of the United States as 'The East Coast', whereas the western part is usually called 'The West Coast'. This can seem a bit confusing, as names can vary depending on regional nomenclature.

Geographical Definitions

The East Coast of the U.S. refers to the coastline on the eastern part of the country. It includes states like New England, that include Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. Other significant states are Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Florida. On the other hand, the West Coast mainly consists of Washington, Oregon, and California.

Geographical Features

A notable difference between the two coasts is their topography. The East Coast is characterized by a relatively flat terrain, primarily due to its plains. In contrast, the West Coast is more rugged, featuring mountains and hills. The mountain ranges on the West Coast include the Sierra Nevada in California and the Cascades in Washington and Oregon. The climate also differs based on ocean currents. On the East Coast, the warm Gulf Stream flows from the South to the North, making the northern states cooler and the southern states warmer. On the West Coast, the cold California Current flows from the north to the south, affecting the weather patterns.

Environmental Differences

There are several key differences that differentiate the landscapes of the East and West Coasts. For instance, the West Coast is known for its mountainous terrain and extensive forests, while the East Coast lacks significant mountain ranges and natural forests. The presence of forests in the West Coast is abundant, providing a stark contrast to the more plains-like features of the East Coast.

Climate Variations

The climate of the East Coast is influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Summers can be warm and humid, particularly in the southern states. Winter brings colder temperatures and significant snowfall. In contrast, the West Coast experiences much milder weather, especially in Southern California, which enjoys a Mediterranean climate with a smaller temperature range. The climate in the Pacific Northwest, which includes Washington and Oregon, is cooler, with the potential for coastal snow and rougher seas due to its geographical proximity to British Columbia and Alaska.

National Parks and Outdoor Activities

The United States offers a diverse range of landscapes that can be found along both the East and West Coasts. National Parks like Acadia in Maine, Zion in Utah, and Redwood in California showcase the country's natural beauty. The Appalachian Mountains on the East Coast run along the coast from Florida to Maine and provide hikers with scenic trails. In California, the Sierra Nevada range offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and summer hiking.

The Pacific Coast Highway in California provides a picturesque route for both day trips and road trips, and places like Big Sur and coastal cities like Santa Barbara offer stunning rock formations and beaches. On the other hand, the East Coast offers sandy beaches like those in Florida and New Jersey, and historic sites like Washington, D.C.

Overall, while both coasts offer unique and diverse landscapes, they provide different experiences. The East Coast is best for those interested in historical sites, hilly terrain, and a mix of forests and plains. The West Coast, however, is ideal for those seeking mountain vistas, extensive forests, and a variety of coastal activities.

So, whether you're interested in hiking, skiing, surfing, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the United States, you'll find plenty of adventures around every corner!