With winds sculpted by the Columbia River Gorge and currents from the Columbia River, windsurfers around the world recognize Hood River, Oregon as their capital city. Nestled in the shadow of Mount Hood along the Historic Columbia River Highway, this city is the ideal location for surfers of all ages and abilities.
New to windsurfing? Come to Hood River’s annual Gorge Windfest in June for beginner lessons, professional clinics, and demos of the latest and greatest in windsurfing gear, all free with admission to the event. The Columbia River Gorge Windsurfing Association offers youth windsurfing camps all summer long for area residents and free drop-in sessions for kids from anywhere. If you’ve had at least one previous lesson, drop by the Hook at the west end of the Hood River waterfront three nights a week to practice your moves. These safe, supervised sessions provide "groms" (young surfers) with all the necessary equipment, completely free of charge.
To see the amazing things people can do with a board and a sail, come to one of the Gorge's annual windsurfing competitions. Watch the professionals do jibes, aerials, skippers, grubbies, flakas, and more at the Gorge Freestyle Frenzy, the only advanced freestyle competition in North America. One day each July, competitors and spectators meet at the Hatchery on the Washington side of the Columbia River across from Hood River. The Hatchery provides a natural rock-bank amphitheater for spectators and perfect water conditions for competitors, with enough swell for big flips and aerials and enough calm water for flatwater tricks.
For a less serious competition with no less talent, watch the locals show off their own creative moves at the King of the Hook each August. Surrounded by dikes and shallow enough to stand, the Hook in Hood River is a popular spot for beginners and for goofing off in general. You’ll see more than just old school moves like Duck Tacks and Rail Rides at this crazy event. Competitors and spectators alike are encouraged to wear their old fluorescent wetsuits, disco attire, or even prom dresses.
If you’d rather enjoy the wind and water without the chaos of an event or competition, rent gear at one of the many windsurfing shops in Hood River and rig your board at one of the popular windsurfing sites along the byway. Check for area restrictions before you go--- windsurfing may not be safe or allowed in certain parts of the river.
Whether windsurfing is your passion or you’ve always wanted to try it, Hood River on the Historic Columbia River Highway in Oregon is the place for you. Check the weather report, grab your board, and soon you’ll be ripping like a pro.
