The Columbia River serves as a crucial trade route in the Pacific Northwest, supporting commerce through its ports and hydroelectric dams.

The Columbia River, flowing through Oregon and Washington, is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest and a vital trade route for the region. It facilitates the transport of goods through major ports such as Portland and Vancouver, linking the inland U.S. to global markets. The river's extensive hydroelectric dam network, including the Bonneville Dam, provides renewable energy and supports industrial activities. Navigable channels and locks along the river enable shipping of agricultural products, timber, and other commodities. Its economic importance, combined with its historical role in exploration and settlement, makes it central to the Pacific Northwest's trade and development.