“You’ve seen it in the magazines…now see it for yourself! The Gorge is a legendary destination for wind sports… and a great option to include on an American road-trip!”
Our specialist, Joe | Email Joe

Located on the Columbia River, just an hour’s drive from Portland, Hood River, or The Gorge as it is known, is one of the windiest places in the US and arguably the nation’s spiritual home of kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The Gorge is a mile-wide section of river between steep valley sides that funnel and accelerate the winds making it a Mecca for wind-seekers of all kinds. There are a number of spots up and down a 20-odd mile section of the river and on both the Oregon and Washington sides, but the focus is on and around Hood River. The spot is made up of a couple of hundred yards of grassy riverbank known as The Event Site – where kiters can set up and windsurfers can launch – and The Sandbar, where kiters launch. There are a number of schools based out of containers and a section of The Sandbar is set-aside for beginners. However, we recommend Hood River for experienced kiters and windsurfers although of course everyone is welcome whatever your ability.

The town of Hood River is just across the railway tracks from the water and a funky little place it is with cool coffee shops, multiple micro-breweries and shops selling and renting kite, wind, SUP, ski, snowboard, bike, kayak kit! The place is buzzing with local lifestylers and holidaymakers during the summer and has a more low-key feel at other times of year. Hood River is all about quality of life, with its stunning natural landscape, mild climate, clean mountain air, year-round outdoor sports, wineries and local organic food! Many have made this small town their home, including brands such as Dakine and Slingshot. Actually, we are thinking of moving there too!

* Images courtesy of Jennifer Gulizia – Gorge-Us Photography