Windsurfing and Water Sports Hood River is one of the world’s top spots for windsurfing, kitesurfing, wing foiling and more. Spring through fall, the Gorge pulls cool air from the Pacific Ocean toward the warmer high desert, creating breezes that turn the Columbia River into a big playground for water sports. Athletes use that wind to great advantage, helping Hood River earn the nickname “Windsurfing Capital of the World.” Try your hand at windsurfing, wing foiling and other water sports with gear rentals from Big Winds, Windance Boardshop or Windsurf Express, and sign up for lessons from Kite the Gorge and Cascade Kiteboarding. The Columbia Gorge Wind & Water Association offers a variety of helpful resources — including a map of nearly two dozen launch sites around Hood River and Cascade Locks. To check out the action, visit the Hood River Event Site and Hood River Waterfront Park. Experience the water in a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard. Hood River SUP and Kayak offers rentals, lessons and tours — including a peaceful sunset paddle. Launch from The Hook, whose protected waters provide a relaxing experience on the Columbia River, before circling nearby Wells Island and watching for wildlife. Or try outrigger canoeing in Cascade Locks, where the nonprofit Gorge Canoe Club teams up with the Columbia Gorge Racing Association to offer community paddles that depart from Marine Park on summer evenings. Outings are open to paddlers of all skill levels. However you get on the water, keep an eye out for lessons, community paddles and other events from Wylde Wind & Water. The nonprofit provides water-sports education and leads outings for athletes from all walks of life. MICHAEL PETERSON 20 Visit Hood River Travel Guide
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