Hood River

Welcome to the Hood River region

The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most epic areas of the United States for any type of kayaking - sea kayaking, lake kayaking, rec kayaking and most of all, whitewater kayaking. The Columbia River Gorge is home to the White Salmon, the Little White Salmon, the Hood River, the Wind River, the Klickitat River and the Columbia River. These rivers drain from two beautiful, majestic mountains - the Hood River on the Oregon side and Mt. Adams on the Washington side. All of these rivers are within 20 minutes from Hood River and range from class I - class V. Kayaking here in the Pacific Northwest is year round, that is, if you dress appropriately. Every season brings water into different rivers, which gives boaters the year-round variety to keep the sport fun and challenging. The Columbia River Gorge is 60 miles East of Portland, OR. The boating community here is always eager to share our rivers with others. We love to show off our backyard. Hope to see you on our rivers soon!

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Regional Rivers

River descriptions coming soon...

Come paddle with us in Hood River
All are welcome to paddle in Hood River. We hope you enjoy your stay and our incredible community.


US Retail Stores
  • Gorge Paddling
  • Hood River Outfitters
  • Kayak Shed

    • US Paddling Schools
  • Gorge Paddling
  • Kayak Shed

    • Regional Paddling News

    Headwater's Institute Seminar is headed to Oregon!

    What is the Headwater's Institute? And, how can I get involved with such an organization?


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    Wow . . . summer 2007 in the 'Hood'!

    Being that I work full-time as a kayak instructor and guide during the summer on the White Salmon, I can honestly say that the summer flew by in a whirlwind. My "normal" day consisted of getting up early and working out, heading off to work to either teach or guide, coming home and seeing friends at the take-out to the Green Truss, getting talked into paddling "quick", eating supper and sleeping. I can't complain too much. Read on . . .


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    White Salmon Riverfest and Symposium 2007

    "Our future depends on the health of our rivers." When you really think about that, it's very true. It is our responsibility to be pro-active and to care about our rivers. The White Salmon Riverfest was in its' second year and going strong.


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    The ups and downs of kayaking

    For many of us, kayaking is more than just heading out to the river, setting shuttle and throwing on your gear. Kayaking is standing up to your fears, taking on challenges and rising to the occasion. Sandra shares with us her story of taking on a challenge and rising to the occasion.


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    National Paddling News

      Hotel Charley 3 Premier Dates

      Apr 21 08 - Jesse Coombs just sent in the most up to date list of lucky towns that will play host to a premier of Hotel Charley 3. Keep checking back for more additions as the spring continues.


      April Hometown Throwdown Update

      Apr 18 08 - This month has been full of great moments at all of the throwdown locations.


      In Between Swims Podcast

      Apr 01 08 - Jeff McIntyre has the newest podcast ready for our ears!


      Rivers In Demand

      Apr 01 08 - Andy Maser is now in the town of Lijang scouting the Great Bend of the Yangtze for a long Raft support mission. Here is a small wrap up of the adventures in Tibet that Andy and crew just finished.


      Rivers in Demand

      Mar 11 08 - The Epicocity crew is at it again.


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