Portland Spoke – The Official Blog of Travel Portland

City of Hood River and Mount Hood. Photo by Peter Marbach.

Like most people, I’ve got a list. Driving through Hood River on our move west nearly a decade ago, windsurfing on the Columbia was added to the list. Fast-forward eight years, substitute the newest craze of stand-up paddling (SUP) for windsurfing, and I’ve now checked “Getting on the Columbia in Hood River” off my list.

I wasn’t sure how hard SUP would be — my only real knowledge of it was seeing Hollywood fit gals Cameron Diaz and Kate Hudson in the gossip mags cruising on long boards with paddles in Hawaii. And, with no photo to prove it, I am pretty sure I looked just like them on the water (minus the fit and Hawaii parts). At least that’s how I picture it. (more…)

Stand-Up Paddling in the Columbia River Gorge (photo courtesy of Big Winds)

When I went out to Hood River a couple of weeks ago to try stand-up paddling on the Columbia, I have to say, I was a little wary. That’s a big river out there! What if I fell in? What if I couldn’t keep up with the current? I’m used to the ocean – isn’t it harder to float on fresh water?!

But on this sunny day I was happy to discover how easy stand-up paddling is. Almost TOO easy.  Paddling one of these huge surfboards is all about balance. Despite the fact that this sport was developed by pro surfers, “SUP-ing” is actually a really peaceful activity. Once you get going, gliding along the water feels like a breeze. It’s the perfect thing to do with a group of friends – paddle out, chat, and take in the beauty of the Gorge. 

Big Winds in Hood River is a one-stop shop for everything water sports. They have rentals and offer lessons in stand-up paddling, kite boarding and windsurfing. Even better – all summer long, they have a stand-up rental shop at the waterfront*, so you can just walk up, rent a board and paddle out. And if you get hooked, Big Winds has regular classes and clinics every week…

*Just call first to make sure they’re open on the day you’re visiting.