Stevenson today?

BBMorgan100 · Since 17 Aug 2009 20 Posts Portland

There appears to be east wind at the Stevenson camera website. I've never been there before, is this safe for a beginner? I only have a 14m kite at 180 lbs.

There's no information on Stevenson on the spots page.

Hope to get some wind somewhere today Razz

corey4x4man · Since 13 Jun 2011 134 Posts Beaverton, OR Stoked

Stevenson is a tricky spot for a beginner. Only one lane to lunch and land from,, must be able to go upwind unless you want to walk along way when you get stuck downwind.
Others may chime in on this one but I think most will say depends on your skill level and if a 14 would be to strong

hilton · Since 15 Aug 2008 801 Posts Opinionated

Rooster Rock is a much better East wind launch for beginners with a long sandy beach in the Fall months.
Both spots are probably too windy for a 14m this morning, but the east winds tend to die after lunch, so if you are patient, there should be a window in the afternoon where you can go out.

Youkai · Since 08 Feb 2010 553 Posts Beaverton Addicted

The Stevenson launch is not friendly to your feet. Once your on the water the river is fine but coming back in your feet get beat to crap on the rocks. The whole area is covered with small river rocks. Being constantly submerged they are mighty slippery as well. If you are going to Stevenson I highly recommend bringing your thick booties as they will make the launch much more enjoyable.

Also you need to be able to launch/land your kite from the side of a hill in a wind shadow. Definitely not a beginner spot. Maybe it's not in the shadow on easties but still you are down at the water line and your kite is 20 feet above you on a hill. Not a launching position you are used to.

tonyb · Wed Sep 21, 11 8:35 am

Launching and landing in east winds is even trickier than west at Stevenson. You do need to be good at getting upwind easily or you'll find yourself down by the pier in nothing flat. To be safe launch/land on the downwind side of the big rock. Yeah, the rocks are worse over there but if something goes wrong you have less things to smash in to.

If you go down out in the river or the wind drops you have a couple of get out spots: Bob's Beach, under the railroad bridge in to the fairgrounds or Cascade Locks. Yes, I've done them all over the years. Makes for some long walks.

Overall I'd reccomend kiting westerlies at Stevie before attempting easterlies but if you're a competent rider it's not that difficult.

Tony

BBMorgan100 · Since 17 Aug 2009 20 Posts Portland

Thanks for the advice guys. I would not call myself a competent kiter. I've done most of my kiting at long sandy beaches like Jones beach, and Alameda beach in Oakland, Ca. I'll go try Rooster if its still blowing.

I'm up and coming though, once I get my training wheels off I'll be at Stevie on the daily.

mschulz · Since 29 May 2007 530 Posts Reno, NV Addicted

On the easterlies, Thumb's Up

for Rooster. Nice long sandy beach.