Name one state that borders Canada.

Why This Matters

Thirteen U.S. states share a border with Canada, making this the longest international border in the world at nearly 5,525 miles. You only need to name one state to answer this question correctly. The border stretches from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and then extends further to include Alaska's border with Canada in the far north.

The states that border Canada include Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Alaska. These states cover a wide range of geography, from the forests of New England to the Great Lakes region, across the northern Great Plains, through the Rocky Mountains, and up to the Arctic.

The U.S.-Canada border is often called the "longest undefended border" in the world because the two countries have a peaceful relationship built on trust and cooperation. Millions of people and billions of dollars in goods cross this border every year. Canada is the largest trading partner of the United States. Many border cities, like Detroit and Windsor or Buffalo and Niagara Falls, have close economic and cultural ties. Understanding which states border Canada helps you appreciate the geography and the important relationship between these two neighboring countries.

Key Facts

• Thirteen states border Canada: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Alaska
• You only need to name one state to answer correctly
• The U.S.-Canada border is about 5,525 miles long, the longest international border in the world
• Alaska shares its eastern border with Canada's Yukon Territory and British Columbia
• Canada is the largest trading partner of the United States

Common Mistakes

• Naming a state that does not actually border Canada, such as Oregon, Wisconsin, or Massachusetts
• Confusing states that border Canada with states that border Mexico
• Saying "California", California is on the West Coast but borders Mexico, not Canada

Study Tip

If you live in or near one of the border states, that is the easiest one to remember. Otherwise, pick a well-known state from the list, like New York, Michigan, or Alaska. Alaska is a strong choice because most people know it is the northernmost state, right next to Canada. One state is all you need.