The Northern Dvina River is a significant waterway in northwestern Russia. It flows for about 744 kilometers (462 miles) and is formed by the confluence of the Sukhona and Yug rivers. The river empties into the White Sea, making it an important route for transportation and trade in the region. The river basin is rich in biodiversity and supports various ecosystems. Major cities along the Northern Dvina include Arkhangelsk, which serves as a key port. The river has historical importance, having been a vital trade route since the Middle Ages, connecting the interior of Russia to the Arctic.