Hood River – Columbia Gorge
United States · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Wingfoil
- Best winds W
- Level Intermediate · Pro
- Water Chop
- Best months Apr–Oct
About this spot
The Columbia River breaks through the Cascade Mountains – the gorge acts like a natural wind tunnel. As hot, dry desert air rises some 80 kilometres to the east, cool, dense marine air is drawn up the gorge from the west. This thermal westerly blows almost daily from May to September, averaging 15–30 knots and far more on peak days.
Hood River, Oregon, has been the historic heartland of North American windsurfing since the 1980s and is today just as much a top kite and wingfoil venue. The wind blows against the river current, which makes the waves steep and choppy – bump-and-jump rather than flat water. When is the best time to visit the Gorge? July and August, with the most consistent thermal winds, warm air and long days. The spot suits advanced riders who enjoy strong, gusty wind and choppy conditions.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, May is the windiest month: on 6 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the west. The least wind is in February (0 %).
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
1 %
| 3 kn | W | 3 °C |
| February |
0 %
| 4 kn | W | 5 °C |
| March |
1 %
| 5 kn | W | 9 °C |
| April |
3 %
| 6 kn | W | 13 °C |
| May |
6 %
| 7 kn | W | 18 °C |
| June |
4 %
| 7 kn | W | 23 °C |
| July |
5 %
| 7 kn | W | 28 °C |
| August |
3 %
| 7 kn | W | 27 °C |
| September |
1 %
| 6 kn | W | 22 °C |
| October |
0 %
| 4 kn | W | 15 °C |
| November |
0 %
| 4 kn | — | 7 °C |
| December |
0 %
| 3 kn | W | 4 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from W (usable according to the spot info) are counted. Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
Spots like "The Hatchery" and "Swell City" are the best-known event and bump-and-jump venues. The thermal wind builds through the day – strongest in the afternoon, when smaller sizes pay off. The river runs around 21–24 °C in summer, so a shorty usually does; on top days it can gust well over 50 km/h.
⚠︎ Hazards
Wind blowing against the river current makes the waves steep and short – not for beginners. Strong river current and shipping traffic; keep clear of barges and the channel. Gusty wind on top days demands the right gear and experience.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hood River – Columbia Gorge suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Hood River – Columbia Gorge is a spot for Intermediate · Pro (water: Chop).
Which wind works at Hood River – Columbia Gorge?
Best with wind from W.
When is the best time for Hood River – Columbia Gorge?
The best months are considered to be Apr–Oct.
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