Point roberts in washington state is cut off from the rest of the state by british columbia canada

Point Roberts in Washington State is cut off from the rest of the state by British Columbia, Canada.

Located in the northwestern corner of the United States, Point Roberts is an intriguing piece of land that stands as an isolated territory. This unique geographical phenomenon is surrounded by water on three sides and shares its only land border with Canada. Situated at the southern tip of Tsawwassen Peninsula in British Columbia, Point Roberts is separated from the rest of Washington State by the Canadian province.

Point Roberts’ fascinating isolation originates from the 1846 Oregon Treaty between the United States and British North America (now Canada). The treaty established the border between the two countries as the 49th parallel west of the Rocky Mountains, extending all the way to the Pacific Ocean. However, due to an inaccurate understanding of the geography at the time, the treaty did not account for the small end of the peninsula that would eventually become Point Roberts, leaving it cut off from the rest of the United States.

This peculiar situation gives Point Roberts a unique identity and presents both challenges and opportunities for its residents. With a population of approximately 1,300 people, the community relies heavily on tourism and its proximity to the Canadian border. In fact, many of the residents work or go to school in Canada, taking advantage of the convenient access to nearby cities such as Vancouver.

The isolation also brings some hardships for the residents of Point Roberts. Due to the need to pass through Canada when traveling to and from the rest of Washington State, residents must undergo customs and border procedures twice. Additionally, the cost of goods and services is typically higher in Point Roberts compared to nearby areas due to the logistical challenges and limited competition.

Despite these challenges, Point Roberts remains a beloved and vibrant community. Its scenic coastal location and small-town charm attract tourists, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil getaway. Visitors can enjoy numerous recreational activities, including boating, hiking, and birdwatching in the picturesque surroundings.

In conclusion, Point Roberts, Washington, is a remarkable piece of land, cut off from the rest of the state by the presence of British Columbia, Canada. Its unique location offers both advantages and disadvantages to its residents, who have learned to embrace the challenges and cherish the beauty of this isolated treasure on the coastline. If you ever find yourself in Washington State, a visit to Point Roberts is undoubtedly a worthwhile adventure to experience a place where isolation meets natural splendor.

Source: CityLab