How Many States Share a Border With Canada?
Canada is the second-largest country in the world, spanning over 9.9 million square kilometers. It shares its southern border with the United States, the third-largest country globally. The border between Canada and the United States is the longest international border in the world, stretching over 8,891 kilometers or 5,525 miles. This vast border is divided between thirteen U.S. states and eight Canadian provinces and territories. Let’s explore which states in the United States have the privilege of sharing a border with Canada.
1. Alaska:
Alaska is the only state in the United States that shares a direct land border with Canada. It is located in the extreme northwest of North America, separated from the rest of the United States by British Columbia and Yukon. The Alaska-Canada border extends over 2,475 kilometers (1,538 miles) and is marked by the Alaska Panhandle, which stretches down the Pacific Coast.
2. Washington:
The state of Washington shares a border with Canada to the north. It is connected to the Canadian province of British Columbia via the 49th parallel, which forms a significant portion of the boundary. The border between Washington and British Columbia stretches over 232 kilometers (144 miles) and includes several crossings, such as the Peace Arch crossing and the Pacific Highway crossing.
3. Idaho:
Idaho shares a small portion of its border with Canada. The northernmost part of Idaho is connected to British Columbia via a 70-kilometer (43-mile) border. This border is relatively remote and is located in a mountainous region, providing stunning natural scenery.
4. Montana:
Montana is another state that shares a significant portion of its border with Canada. The state is connected to the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. The Montana-Canada border extends over 877 kilometers (545 miles) and offers various crossing points, including Chief Mountain Border Crossing and Port of Raymond.
5. North Dakota:
North Dakota shares a border with the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The North Dakota-Canada border stretches over 499 kilometers (310 miles) and is marked by the 49th parallel. This border is relatively flat and extends through vast plains and agricultural regions.
6. Minnesota:
The state of Minnesota shares a border with Canada’s Manitoba province. The Minnesota-Canada border stretches over 877 kilometers (545 miles) and includes various crossings, such as the International Falls-Ranier Border Crossing and Baudette-Rainy River International Bridge.
7. New York:
New York shares a border with Canada’s Ontario province. The state is connected to Ontario through several border crossings, including the Peace Bridge in Buffalo, Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls, and the Thousand Islands Bridge near Alexandria Bay. The New York-Canada border extends over 715 kilometers (444 miles).
8. Vermont:
Vermont shares a border with Canada’s Quebec province. The Vermont-Canada border stretches over 145 kilometers (90 miles) and includes multiple crossings, such as the Vermont-Quebec Border Crossing in Highgate Springs and the Derby Line-Province Line Border Crossing.
9. New Hampshire:
New Hampshire shares a short border with Canada’s Quebec province. The New Hampshire-Canada border extends over 93 kilometers (58 miles) and includes the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, which straddles the border between Derby Line, Vermont, and Stanstead, Quebec.
FAQs:
Q: How long is the Canada-U.S. border?
A: The Canada-U.S. border is approximately 8,891 kilometers (5,525 miles) long.
Q: Which U.S. state shares the longest border with Canada?
A: Alaska shares the longest border with Canada, stretching over 2,475 kilometers (1,538 miles).
Q: How many Canadian provinces and territories share a border with the United States?
A: Eight Canadian provinces and territories share a border with the United States.
Q: Are there any major cities located along the Canada-U.S. border?
A: Yes, several major cities are located along the Canada-U.S. border, including Seattle, Detroit, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls.
Q: Are there any restrictions or requirements for crossing the Canada-U.S. border?
A: Yes, there are specific entry requirements and customs regulations when crossing the Canada-U.S. border. It is essential to have valid identification and comply with immigration and customs procedures.
In conclusion, thirteen U.S. states have the privilege of sharing a border with Canada. Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire all have a portion of their territory connected to various Canadian provinces. The Canada-U.S. border is not only geographically significant but also economically and culturally vital for both countries.