WWS

USA

Hood River

24kts

W · Wind season

The Columbia River Gorge squeezes a strong thermal westerly down the river valley on summer afternoons, framed by basalt cliffs on both banks. River current stacks up short, punchy chop in places, and the glacial water stays cold even in July, so a wetsuit is standard kit even in peak season. Windsurfers share the water.

intermediate
24kts
Average wind
W
Primary direction

Location

Nearest town
Hood River
Coordinates
45.7054, -121.5215
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Best months

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

What to pack

Kite sizes

  • 11–14 mtypical sessions, 14–22 kn
  • 8–10 mstrong days, 20–28 kn
  • 5–7 mnuking days, 28+ kn

Boards

  • Twintip — universal, bring one

What to wear (by climate)

In the water
3/2 mm full wetsuit.
On land
Hoody and jacket; long pants in the evening.

Derived from the spot's latitude (temperate zone) and current season.

Right of way & manners

  1. 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
  2. 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
  3. 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
  4. 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
  5. 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.