Hood River, Oregon, and the Columbia River Gorge are hot spots for lovers of wind, water, and spectacular scenery. Visitors come from around the world to take advantage of the Gorge's steady wind conditions, ideal for windsurfing, kitesailing, and other extreme water sports. Hood River also draws visitors who want to hike, bike, or drive the hills and bluffs along the Gorge and in nearby Mt. Hood National Forest.
Between the gorge wind and the river currents, Hood River is heaven for windsurfers. Fans come from around the world to partake of the perfect conditions, or to watch the action.
Gorge Sailing Guide
Windance, a Hood River equipment outfitter, has prepared an interactive Gorge map of sites where windsurfers can set up and launch.
Lessons and Outfitters
This directory of resources will help you find new, used, and rental equipment, river guides, lessons, and other Gorge windsurfing information.
Columbia Gorge Windsurfing Association
One of the largest windsurfing organizations in the United States, CGWA strives to improve conditions and access for wind enthusiasts in the Gorge. They also sponsor a number of meetings, lessons, and events, including the US Windsurfing National Championships in August.
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing, also known as kitesailing or kiteboarding, has also become extremely popular in the Columbia River Gorge. These resources will help you find out about how to kitesurf and the equipment required:
