Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the narrow walls of the Columbia River Gorge. These westerlies, which directly op-
pose the river's flow, create some of the world's most optimal conditions for wind-
surfing, which has been popular around Hood River since the 1980s. Kiteboarding,
that more edgy cousin of windsurfing, also offers exciting speeds and airy acrobat-
ics. On a good day you can witness hundreds of colorful sails cutting through the
water at breathtaking speeds, in daring displays of athleticism and beauty.
Good put-in spots in Washington include Swell City , the Hatchery and Doug's
Beach (all for the experienced). In Oregon, Hood River's Event Site is a major put-
in location for intermediates and gets crowded; other good spots include Rock
Creek and Rowena . Beginners should head to the Hook . Wind conditions change
frequently, making some locations better than others on any given day; for current
conditions check www.iwindsurf.com .
For beginners, taking a windsurfing or kiteboarding lesson is mandatory. Big
Winds ( 888-509-4210; www.bigwinds.com ; 207 Front St) is the biggest operator in the
area and in downtown Hood River. Brian's Windsurfing ( 541-377-9463;
www.brianswindsurfing.com ; 400 Portway Ave, Hood River) and Hood River Water Play (
541-386-9463; www.hoodriverwaterplay.com ; Port of Hood River Marina) are other good options.
All rent stand-up paddling (SUP) equipment too.
Mountain Biking
Head south of town for great mountain biking. Most of the area's trails are off Hwy 35
and Forest Rd 44 (which branches off Hwy 35 about 20 miles south of Hood River).
Good local rides include Post Canyon, Surveyor's Ridge and Nestor Peak.
Discover Bicycles CYCLING
( 541-386-4820; www.discoverbicycles.com ; 210 State St; 10am-6pm Mon-Sat, to 5pm Sun)
Rents road, hybrid and mountain bikes ($30 to $50 per day) and can give advice.
Rafting
For white-water rafting, head to the White Salmon, Hood or Klickitat Rivers. Stand up
paddling (SUP) is becoming popular on the Columbia.
Wet Planet RAFTING
( 877-390-9445; www.wetplanetwhitewater.com ; 860 Hwy 141) White-water rafting trips and
kayaking classes; located nearby in White Salmon, WA.
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