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From Tarifa To Hood River
Chasing Foil Dreams
The idea for a Hood River Wing & Foiling trip was sparked last summer in Tarifa, when Chris MacDonald and his family came there for the GWA Tour Stop. They shared exciting stories about Hood River’s legendary winds and ideal training conditions with Tarifa locals Nia & Leo Suardiaz and Aleks and Tom Acherer, and the group quickly became eager to experience it firsthand.
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»Hood River is an incredible spot surrounded by beautiful nature. It was my second time there and I was excited to return with my mom, my brother Leo, and my teammates and friends Aleks & Tom Acherer. It was a fun team trip focused on training and shooting.«
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»One of the best trips I’ve had so far. This is such a unique spot for all kinds of water sports, and the experience was unforgettable. The waves, wind swell and the strong winds - everything there was perfect for pushing our limits. «
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Hood River is the wind sports mecca located in the Columbia River Gorge, offering stunning natural scenery and world-class wind conditions.
With its iconic winds and breathtaking landscape, Hood River is the perfect summer destination for training, capturing some incredible photos, and creating lasting memories with teammates and friends. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or just getting started, Hood River has everything you need for an epic Wing & Foiling adventure – including Pump Foiling and Downwind Foiling)!
The perfect destination for anyone looking to push their skills or simply enjoy world-class wind and water conditions.
Currents: The Columbia River has a strong current that flows opposite the wind direction, creating unique riding conditions.
Best Wind Times: Typically, winds pick up by midday and stay strong through the afternoon, with lighter mornings making for good beginner sessions.
Additional Activities: When there’s no wind, Hood River offers plenty of other adventures, such as paddleboarding, hiking, and exploring waterfalls in the nearby Columbia River Gorge.
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»For me, one of the daily highlights was the downwinder we all did together after our training session. It added a bit of friendly competition and a lot of fun to the end of our rides. This place has left a lasting impression on me, and I surely want to go back. «
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Wind Conditions
Hood River is renowned for its consistent and strong winds, making it a prime destination for wing foiling, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. The Gorge acts as a wind funnel, channeling thermal winds through the river valley.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
Wind Direction: Predominantly west to east, creating side-shore and slightly side-on-shore conditions
Average Wind Speeds: 15-30 knots, with some days reaching up to 40 knots during peak summer months
Key Spots
The Hatchery ("The Hatch")
Best For: Intermediate to advanced riders
Conditions: Strong, consistent winds with rolling swells, making it ideal for wave riding and advanced maneuvers
The Event Site
Best For: Beginners and intermediates
Conditions: Flat to slightly choppy water, perfect for learning or practicing skills in a controlled environment
Swell City
Best For: Advanced riders
Conditions: Fast-moving river swells, strong currents, and gusty winds
The Marina
Best For: Beginners and intermediates
Conditions: Lighter winds, flat water, and easy access, perfect for first-time foilers and those wanting to refine their skills
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»Hood River turned out to be one of the most incredible places I’ve ever visited. The Hatch, where we did most of the winging, delivered strong and consistent winds blowing almost every day. That, combined with being on the water alongside so many skilled riders, really helped me to improve my Wing & Foiling skills.«
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