Kiting in the Dalles?

hilton · Since 15 Aug 2008 803 Posts Opinionated

Has anyone ever kited from Riverfront Park in the Dalles?

It looks like an easy launch with the river so low.

Lots of beach, shallow water, and grass for rigging.

jblum · Since 13 Jul 2008 306 Posts The Gorge Obsessed

and there isn't much spilling from the Dam right now, so there wouldn't be much current.

Ron (bulae99) lives in TD and could maybe be of service here...

Chooch · Sun Sep 05, 10 8:16 pm

The river has some drastic bends upwind...guessing the wind would be trash.

hilton · Since 15 Aug 2008 803 Posts Opinionated

The Dalles has always been a "beginner" windsurfing site since the bends in the river generally keep the wind lighter (and the waves smaller) than Doug's or Rowena. I would think that would make it gusty, but the access sure looks good (if kiting is allowed). I have driven past there hundreds of times (on windy days) and only recall seeing a kite out there once.

pkh · Since 27 Feb 2005 6549 Posts Couve / Hood Honored Founder

Let us know how it's goes...looks like an interesting spot

tstansbury · Since 06 Jun 2006 649 Posts Rowena and P.C Addicted

I have kited their a few times but the wind was really bad it tended to be gusty and swirlly. I have not tried it with newer kites they may make it doable but with 04 fuels it was the worst teabag sesh ever.

bulae99 · Since 12 Jul 2006 1691 Posts I give out bad advice.

The river bends as it flows past several large disruptive geographic and man made features. In general the west wind is disrupted to the point that it's just not very fun.

It's doable, but why?