The Gorge - Kitesurfing in Hood River

There are but only a handful of spots that come to mind when I think of kitesurfing and the US, and the Gorge is well near the top. The famous kitesurfing and windsurfing spot is notorious and well-known in these sports for some big winds and big waves.

The Gorge, more specifically, the Columbian River Gorge, is where the kitesurfing happens. The river is considerable wide in most areas and there are plenty of spots to kite along the river for miles in each direction of Hood River depending on the day’s wind conditions.

WIND CONDITIONS
From my understanding, the winds are great in this area because it funnels as a result of the canyon walls and the difference in pressures – in short, the wind is very good and strong. In fact, the wind can almost be too strong for kitesurfing, so I imagine this is why the Gorge is a popular destination for the windsurfers and their small rigs. Check with some of the local kiters or shops to find out the best spots for the day or wind conditions.

WATER CONDITIONS
The water was a decent temperature in July. I used both a shorty and 4/3mm wetsuit. An important note for this area concerning the water is the water levels. The river is damed and the water level can change pretty quick throughout the day.

OTHER NOTES
When kiting at the Hood River spot, there is a huge sand bar (see photo #2) that extends out from the beach for around 200 meters or so where the kiters launch. From what I witnessed, most kiters generally bring out the rig they’re going to be using when they get out there. It seemed best to not leave any gear on the sand bar, likely due to the chance of a increase in water level resulting in some soaked/lost gear. Furthermore and just as a heads up, you will likely have to walk through waste deepish water to get to the sand bar.

There is a big parking lot available (paid though) right in front of the main spot, but you can also park along the roads leading to the parking lot and simply walk a bit further.

Also, it is important to note that the river does have barges passing through the kite spots, so keep an eye out and stay out of their way.

Overall, the kiting was great. The Hood River spot is definitely worth a visit and the local community and vibe is awesome. I know there are a few other spots, such as Lyle, Rufus, Roosevelt and the Hatchery, but I don’t much details about them, so if you go, ask some of the locals for the skinny on these other spots. If you have another questions about Hood River, post it up in the comment section!

Thanks!

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