The Unique Appeal of the USA’s Landlocked States

The United States’ landlocked states may not have beaches, but they more than make up for it with stunning natural landscapes. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado to the serene rivers of the Midwest, these states offer a variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking views. Let’s explore what makes these inland states so appealing to nature lovers and adventurers alike.

What Are Landlocked States?

A landlocked state is a state that is entirely surrounded by other states, meaning it does not border an ocean, sea, or gulf. Although they don't have direct access to maritime routes, many landlocked states have rivers or lakes that play a crucial role in trade, transportation, and recreation.

List of Landlocked States in the USA

There are 27 Landlocked States in the United States. These include:

1. Arizona
2. Arkansas
3. Colorado
4. Idaho
5. Illinois
6. Indiana
7. Iowa
8. Kansas
9. Kentucky
10. Michigan 
11. Minnesota
12. Missouri
13. Montana
14. Nebraska
15. Nevada
16. New Mexico
17. North Dakota
18. Ohio
19. Oklahoma
20. Pennsylvania
21. South Dakota
22. Tennessee
23. Utah
24. Vermont
25. West Virginia
26. Wisconsin
27. Wyoming

Double-Landlocked States

Interestingly, two states are considered double-landlocked, meaning they are landlocked by other landlocked states. These states are:

1. Nebraska – Surrounded by South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa.
2. Kansas – Surrounded by Nebraska, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Missouri.

Residents of these states have to travel through at least two other states to reach an ocean.

Economic and Geographical Significance

While landlocked states do not have access to oceanic ports, many compensate with rivers, lakes, and highways. For example:

• The Mississippi River provides a major transportation route for states like Illinois, Missouri, and Arkansas.
• The Great Lakes, particularly in states like Michigan and Ohio, offer critical routes for shipping and trade.
• Some states, like Colorado and Nevada, capitalize on their unique landscapes by attracting tourists to mountain ranges, ski resorts, and desert attractions.

Challenges for Landlocked States

Being landlocked can present certain economic and logistical challenges. For instance:

• Trade costs can be higher as goods must travel longer distances to reach ocean ports.
• Natural disasters, such as droughts, can have a more significant impact in landlocked states, as they do not have direct access to large bodies of water for relief.
• Limited maritime industries – Coastal states often benefit from industries like fishing, shipbuilding, and tourism centered around the sea, which are less prominent in landlocked states.

Benefits of Being Landlocked

Despite the challenges, landlocked states also offer unique advantages:

• Strategic inland positioning – Many landlocked states act as major hubs for land-based transportation, like railroads and highways, boosting industries that rely on logistics and overland transport.
• Diverse landscapes – Many landlocked states feature stunning natural beauty, including Rocky Mountain ranges, Great Plains, and vast forests, attracting nature enthusiasts, hikers, and adventure seekers.
• Lower risk of hurricanes – Without coastal exposure, landlocked states are less likely to suffer the direct impacts of hurricanes and tropical storms.

Notable Landlocked States to Visit

Some landlocked states are known for their rich history, culture, and attractions. Here are a few worth mentioning:

• Colorado – Famous for its Rocky Mountain resorts and outdoor recreational activities.
• Tennessee – Known for its music scene in cities like Nashville and Memphis.
• Arizona – Home to the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
• Nevada – Popular for Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, and nearby natural attractions like Lake Tahoe.

Conclusion

Although they may lack the allure of oceanfront properties, the landlocked states of the USA have much to offer in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether it’s through bustling cities, majestic mountains, or historical landmarks, these states play a vital role in the country’s geography and economy.