The Hood River Event Site is a world-renowned watersports haven nestled in the Columbia River Gorge of Oregon. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, this location is the epicenter of American Kiteboarding, and you're almost guaranteed to get consistent winds, breathtaking scenery, and a thriving outdoor community.

There is no other place with the energy that you'll feel here. Imagine a mix of strong daily winds; the largest concentration of kiters, wingers, windsurfers, and hydrofoilers in the country congregate here. You'll see brands testing prototypes, pros training for competition, and loads of wind chasers sharing the same space.

Located at the crossroads of Hood River, Oregon, and Washington State, the Event Site is a mecca for wind and water sports enthusiasts. Its unique geography delivers wind speeds of over 20 knots on approximately 190 days a year, making it a prime location for kiteboarding, winging, and foiling.

The Event Site is the hub and not far from many other launch locations, food, and other amenities. It's also located right near downtown! Imagine the high-energy vibes of a ski town, a wind sports town, a mountain bike town, and a general outdoor adventure hub with a vibrant restaurant scene and cool people.

What to expect at the Hood River Event Site

Consistent Wind: Averaging over 20 knots, the conditions here cater to both beginners seeking manageable winds and advanced riders looking for a challenge. The wind here can be on the stronger side for beginners at times, but the sandbar provides a safer onshore location to lock things in.

Deep Water: The site features predominantly deep-water conditions with occasional slicks at various spots for more advanced riding. The upwind side of the sandbar stays waist-deep for a good distance, so you can ride upwind and walk or drift back if needed.

Community: You'll be immersed in the heart of the kitesurfing industry here!

The Event Site is the large grassy area next to the parking lot here. Yes, it's paid parking everywhere on the water front but it's well worth the price. Kiteboarders and wingfoilers will need to stage their gear on the grass and walk down to the sandbar to launch their gear.

The nice thing about this setup is you'll be able to keep your gear clean, and your lines managed, and there are restrooms here. The grassy area has long chords to secure your kites and sails if necessary, and often it will be with the strength of the wind here.

The staging area is in a wind shadow on west winds, but the wind will be stronger and smoother when you walk out to launch from the sandbar.

Staging Area: A vibing grassy meadow perfect for drying kites and gear. Meeting other riders and just hanging out. It's also where wingers can enter and exit the water within the designated swim zone.

The Sandbar: This sandy stretch extends into the river, serving as the primary area for kite setup, launching, and landing. The area upwind of the sandbar is extensive and can range from mild chop to river swell. The area downwind is extremely shallow and there are advanced kitepark features set up there.

Freshwater Perks: The river’s fresh, cool water is refreshing, and its slightly gritty sand doesn’t cling to kites, making cleanup easier.

Be Prepared: It's best to bring a range of wetsuits and waterwear here. Summers can be extremely hot with frequent heat waves, but it's possible for a cool front to come through in the late summer.

Plan Ahead: Keep lots of water with you, and be sure to have zinc and a sun hat. Peak heatwaves happen around August and can go into early September. If it gets too hot, there might not be wind, but the good news is you're never too far from wind on the river.

What if there is no wind? Consider visiting Rufus east of town; check to see if the wind is blowing at Viento or in Stevenson, WA.

Summer: Most riders wear board shorts and spring suits. Floridians and others accustomed to warmer climates might occasionally need a 3/2 wetsuit for cooler days.

Fall/Winter: As temperatures drop, expect to transition into thicker wetsuits (4/3 or 5/4) for colder water conditions.

Checking the forecast before visiting is essential. You should always be prepared. Considering the wild temperature swings during the shoulder season and late summer, it's best to pack some hot-weather clothes and cool-weather clothes. There will be days when a tank top is all you need and others when you'll be glad to have a jacket and pants!

Hood River is more than just a wind sports destination—it’s a playground for various watersports and activities:

Kiteboarding and Winging: The event site is the most popular location, but you're never far from some world-class kiteboarding and wingsurfing spots. Just upwind, you'll find Jenson Beach. A grassy area was set up near the local waterfront restaurants. There is a large stairwell that leads right into the river. This is where most of the wingsurfers will be set up.

 You'll need to sail out past the windshadow to catch the good wind. This spot is ideal for new wingfoilers because if you can not stay upwind, you'll drift downwind to the eventsite sandbar.

After your sesh, you can walk over to a brewery or pizzeria to relax.

Chop and Swell: The river typically has knee- to thigh-high chop, but experienced riders will find rhythm and flow within its patterns.

Swell City and The Hatchery: If you're up to drive over to Washington, advanced riders can venture upwind to these iconic spots. Swell City offers consistent river swell, while The Hatchery delivers chest-high or larger waves in winds over 30 knots.

This is the coolest wing location on the entire river if you are into riding waves. The current travels opposite the wind on a west, so you can sail downwind, sit down, and float back to where you started.

WakeStlye kiteboarding: Hood River is home to the world's only free public kite park. Think of a cable wakeboarding park with kickers and sliders set up for kites. You'll need to be an advanced rider and comfortable riding finless in boots. Helmets are mandatory, and you'll want to watch the water levels. When the water is shallow in the estuary, it's best to wait. 

A good indicator that conditions are good is if the park crew is out on the water. These riders are some of the best in the world and they hold the Kitepark Leauge X GKA world tour finals here. The author of this article is a competitor in this event. If you want to learn more about our niche discipline, please don't hesitate to ask the crew how to get started. Park kiters ride hard, but we're a friendly bunch. The features require specific west winds for safety, so avoid the park when there are too many north or south winds.

Kite Foiling in at the event site: The water is deep here, and you'll see many kitefoilers on the water. It's common to see 5-meter kites and insanely good riders training here. Don't let that intimidate you! The crew is friendly, fun-loving, and the conditions are all time!

Barges: The Columbia River is an active transportation route. Riders must remain vigilant as massive barges (up to 500 feet) frequently pass through. Maintaining situational awareness is critical to avoid accidents.

You'll be fine if you stay upwind of the sandbar. The barge lanes are just past the end near the Washinton side of the river.

These ships can not stop, so don't get caught in the water when you see them coming. The safest place to ride is in the area way upwind of the sandbar.

Cross-Training Opportunities: Hood River is the perfect destination for progression and cross-training:

KiteSurfing: The steady conditions make it an ideal place to refine your kitesurfing skills. It's all wind-driven river swell, but it's a good place to go out on a strapless directional board to hone your skills.

Winging: With consistent wind and open river swell, it’s one of the best spots for winging enthusiasts. The river swell here is perfect to train for the ocean. 

Additional Activities: Consider cross-training with biking or hiking to fully embrace the adventure lifestyle this area offers. Fitness is a part of the sport after all! 

Ideal Winds: West Winds are best for Hood River. When winds clock too far north or south, the mountains can create gusty and turbulent conditions.

Wind Speeds: Expect gusty conditions in general, with wind speeds ranging from 13 to 30 knots. A smooth day typically falls between 17 to 25 knots.

Big Air Potential: The gusty nature of the wind here creates an "elevator effect," making it a favorite spot for big air riders.The wind can clock east from time to time. Visit Viento or Stevenson, WA, to ride smoother east winds.

Beyond the Water:

Hood River isn’t just about watersports. The town itself is a vibrant community with: 

Incredible Food: From casual eats to gourmet dining, Hood River offers some of the best cuisines in the region. We love Egg River Cafe Freshies for breakfast.

Anything along the waterfront is great, and the breweries here have some amazing local beer from the Pacific Northwest.

Outdoor Adventures: Explore hiking trails, river rafting, and endless biking paths.Mountain Biking: This is as much a bike town as it is a winding town. Visit the local bike shops for intel and rentals.

1. What activities are available at the Hood River Event Site? The Event Site is renowned for windsurfing, kiteboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. Its consistent winds and accessible waterfront make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. Additionally, the area offers opportunities for swimming, yoga, and casual picnics.

2. Is there an entry fee or parking cost?Yes, parking fees apply: $7 for regular vehicles and $15 for oversized vehicles. These fees support the maintenance of the facilities.

3. Are dogs allowed at the Event Site?Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times to ensure safety and comfort for all visitors.

4. What amenities are available on-site? The Event Site features grassy rigging areas, gently sloping gravel beaches, seating areas, and restrooms. Its proximity to the riverfront waterpark adds to its appeal.

5. When is the best time to visit for wind sports? Summer months offer the most consistent winds, attracting windsurfers and kiteboarders worldwide. However, conditions can vary, so it's advisable to check local forecasts before planning your trip.

6. Are there any safety considerations?The Columbia River is an active transportation route with frequent barge traffic. Visitors should remain vigilant and maintain situational awareness to ensure safety.

7. What other attractions are nearby?Hood River boasts a vibrant town with excellent dining options, hiking trails, river rafting, and extensive biking paths. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse activities.

Elite Watersports has served the Tampa and St Petersburg area for years. They offer kiteboarding and wingsurfing lessons. They also have a retail shop equpit with all of the latest kitesurfing gear. 

If you need help give us a call. .
(727)-800-2202