Hood River Gorge Kiteboarding &Travel Guide

Hood River is a top kiteboarding and windsurfing destination in Oregon, USA. It’s just an hour from Portland and closes to a major international airport, making it easy to get to but hard to leave!

The Hood River area offers some of the best conditions for kiteboarding in the world, with a perfect mix of wind, waves, and weather.

I had a great time while I was in Hood River. It was really nice to be able to experience the natural beauty of the area. I felt like I was able to really connect with nature and it was a very relaxing experience.

Hood River is a great place to stay for kiteboarding because of the consistent winds and the variety of lodging options. There are also a number of no-wind activities to keep you busy when the wind isn’t blowing.

Where is Hood River?

Hood River is a city in Oregon, located about 60 miles east of Portland. The city is situated on the Columbia River Gorge and is known for its windsurfing and kiteboarding.

How to Get Hood River?

There are several ways to get to Hood River, including by car, bus, or train.

By car:

The easiest way to get to Hood River is by car. From Portland, take I-84 eastbound for about 60 miles. Take exit 62 for Hood River/White Salmon and follow the signs into town.

By bus:

There are several bus companies that offer service to Hood River from Portland, including Greyhound, BoltBus, and Amtrak Thruway. The trip takes about 2 hours. Check schedules and fares in advance.

By train:

Amtrak’s Empire Builder line offers service from Portland to Hood River (and beyond). The trip takes about 4 hours. Again, check schedules and fares in advance.

When to kiteboard Hood River?

The best season to kiteboard in Hood River is from May to September. The wind is typically strongest during this time, making it ideal for kiteboarding. However, be sure to check the forecast before heading out, as the wind can sometimes be unpredictable.

Where to kiteboard in the Hood River?

There are many great places to kiteboard in the Hood River. Some of the most popular spots include Event Site, Marina, and Stevenson

Event Site

The Event Site in Hood River is the center of kiteboarding in the area, with two spots for beginners and experienced kitesurfers. The downwind spot is great for beginner lessons, while the upwind spot is perfect for more experienced kitesurfers. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy the incredible views and exciting atmosphere that make kiteboarding in Hood River so special.

Marina

Marina, is more difficult than the Event Site. I would not recommend especially beginners kitesurfer to work at this point. The wind here is very strong and it’s easy to lose control of your kite.

The wind can also be a little gusty at times, making it difficult to keep your kite steady. But once you’re out on the water, it’s well worth the effort – the views are simply stunning.

Stevenson

Stevenson is a great kitesurfing spot for advanced riders, and it’s only 30 minutes away from Hood River. Sometimes the wind isn’t as strong in Hood River, so if you’re looking for a challenge, Stevenson is the place to go.

The Hook

The Hook Kitesurf is a great place to learn how to water start. The bay is smooth and ideal for practicing.

Kiteboarding Schools in Hood River

Hood River is a great place to learn how to kiteboard, with several schools offering kiteboarding lessons and rentals. The windy conditions and variety of terrain make it a perfect spot for both beginners and experienced riders.

Kiteboarding schools in Hood River can provide you with everything you need to get started, from lessons and equipment rentals to transportation to the best riding spots.

There are plenty of kiteboarding schools in the area, including Cascade Kiteboarding, and Kite the Gorge. All of these schools offer lessons and rentals, so you can get started kiteboarding no matter your experience level.

Hood River Kite Shops

Hood River is a popular spot for kiteboarders and kitesurfers from all over the world. And it’s no wonder, with the perfect mix of wind, waves, and weather. But if you’re new to the sport, or just visiting Hood River for the first time, you might not know where to go to find the best kiteboarding gear.

Luckily, there are plenty of great kite shops in Hood River that can help you get set up with everything you need. From beginner to expert, there’s a kite shop in Hood River that can help you find the perfect kiteboarding gear for your level.

Here is some of the best kite shop in the Hood River, Pure Stoke(Formerly 2nd Wind Sports), Big Winds Hood River, and Windance Boardshop. All of these kite shops are dedicated to providing excellent customer service and support. They also offer a wide variety of products to choose from.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll be able to find everything you need at one of these kite shops.

Where to Stay in Hood River?

There are many great places to stay in Hood River, Oregon. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a luxurious hotel, or a rustic cabin in the woods, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your head.

If you’re looking to be close to all the action, downtown Hood River is the place to be. You’ll find plenty of great shops, restaurants, and breweries.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, try staying in one of the many neighborhoods that line the Columbia River.

Here you’ll find beautiful views and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, Hood River offers perfect accommodation options.

Best Western Hood River Inn – Best Western Plus at Hood River is located on the shore of the Columbia River, offering amazing views of the Gorge. It is located next to the town of Hood River, and a 15-minute walk takes you to town.

The Westcliff Lodge – The Westcliff Lodge is a great option for those looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay near kitesurfing spots. The hotel is older, but the grounds are beautiful and the views of the river are great. The lodge is only a five-minute drive from kitesurfing spots, making it a convenient option for those looking to get out and enjoy the sport.

Hood River Hotel -The Hood River Hotel is a great choice for kitesurfing enthusiasts, as it is just a 15-minute walk from the nearest kitesurfing spot. The hotel is also conveniently located in the center of downtown Hood River, making it easy to explore all that the city has to offer.

Columbia Gorge Hotel&Spa – This hotel is situated on top of the majestic cliffs of the Columbia River and is only a 5-minute drive from the Event Site kite spot. This historic hotel offers stunning views of the river and surrounding area, and guests can enjoy a variety of amenities and activities during their stay. Whether you’re looking to relax and take in the incredible scenery or get out and explore all that this beautiful region has to offer, the Columbia Gorge Hotel is the perfect place for you.

RubyJune Inn– This little hotel is situated in the quiet town of White Salmon, just 10 minutes from Hood River. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers totally acceptable prices.

RubyJune Inn is the perfect place to stay for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. With friendly staff and plenty of amenities, this hotel is sure to make your stay enjoyable.

No-Wind Activities Hood River

Hood River is a great place to explore, even when there’s no wind. The town is surrounded by gorgeous hills and mountains that are perfect for hiking or camping. 

If you’re looking for something more active, the area has plenty of opportunities for kayaking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Hood River has something to offer everyone.

There are also some fantastic restaurants and bars in town where you can enjoy local cuisine or just relax with friends after a day of exploring the Gorge. With so much to offer visitors both on land and water, Hood River is sure to give you an unforgettable experience!

Explore Downtown Hood River

Downtown Hood River is the perfect place to explore and experience the culture of this vibrant town. From cafes serving up delicious coffee, tea and pastries to fine dining restaurants offering exquisite cuisine, you won’t go hungry here.

And for those who love a good drink or two, Evoke Winery and Stave & Stone wine tasting rooms have an array of wines to sample while 64 oz Taphouse and Oak Street Pub offer craft beers sure to satisfy beer lovers.

Shopping enthusiasts can check out unique boutiques selling everything from vintage clothing to home decor items. Whatever your interests may be, there’s something for everyone in downtown Hood River!

Hiking in Hood River

Hood River is an outdoorsman’s paradise, and hikers are sure to love the incredible views of the Columbia River. 

Dog Mountain offers stunning panoramic views from its summit, Tamanawas Falls provides a unique view of Mt Hood framed by a cascading waterfall, and Rowena Crest has beautiful wildflower meadows in addition to its gorgeous river vistas.

There are plenty of trails for all levels of hiker – some more challenging routes with longer distances as well as easy paths that anyone can enjoy.

Mountain Biking in Hood River

Mountain biking in and around Hood River is an amazing way to explore the gorgeous local area. With numerous trails available, you can opt for whatever type of adventure suits your fancy. If you’re not used to longer rides or tougher terrain, renting an e-bike makes it simpler and more enjoyable.

The scenery surrounding you will always be breathtaking with stunning views of nature no matter which route you take; so don’t be surprised if something new catches your eye every time!

Whether it’s a brief ride or a long journey, mountain biking in Hood River provides the perfect opportunity to get outside and savor the fresh air!

Visit the Hood River Wineries and Breweries

The Hood River Valley is home to some of the best wineries and breweries in Oregon.

For beer lovers, there are many great options. pFriem Family Brewers has an excellent restaurant and tasting room in addition to their great selection of beers. 

Full Sail Brewing Co. offers a wide variety of brews for all tastes, while Ferment provides unique and experimental beers for those looking for something different. 

Double Mountain has superb beer, ciders, as well as pizza if you’re feeling hungry! No matter what kind of beer you prefer or experience level you have with craft brewing, you’ll find something perfect at one (or more!) of these fabulous locations in the Portland area!

Conclusion

If you want to go kiteboarding in Oregon, Hood River is the perfect place to visit. With its beautiful nature and great kiteboarding conditions, it’s a perfect spot for a summer vacation. There are plenty of other activities to do in Hood River as well, so it’s a great place to visit and ride upwind.