CGKA - KITEBOARD LAUNCH ZONE IS OPEN AT MARINA BEACH

cgka · Since 18 Jul 2006 278 Posts Obsessed

With the water levels now getting back to down to a normal or semi-regular level, our sandbar launch and land access locations are now back and available for local and visiting kiterboarders to use safely and with caution for swimmers/sunbathers.

The Marina Beach Park kite access for kiteboarding has some specific rules and requirements in order for kiteboarders and swimmers/sunbathers to enjoy a mixed use recreational experience both safely and sanely.

Below is a map showing the specific zones for kiteboarders to PUMP/DRY and for LAUNCH/LANDING.
PUMP/DRY - is specifically designated on the eastern edge of the swim beach right next to the bathrooms.
LAUNCH/LAND - is specifically designated outside (north) of the swimming/sunbathing area and at the waters edge where the Hood and Columbia Rivers intersect. This is specifically to place kiteboarders far enough away from the swimmer/sunbathers to avoid any safety issues.

REMINDER - This is recommended as an advanced launch due to the extremely cold snowmelt river water, strong currents, floating debris, Slider Project features, and funky winds. You must have strong upwind boardriding skills as well as capable self-launching and self-landing skills
Always give families/beachgoers plenty of safety room, not boosting near beachgoers and always try to stay downwind of any kids or families.

If you are unfamiliar with the rules, please refer to one of the information map/signs installed at the upper section of the Marina Beach.
The rules are simple playground rules and are in place for both our safety and the daily recreational beach users safety.

The CGKA and the Port of Hood River thank you for your commitment to follow these rules that allow us this privilege granted to the Kiteboarding community.

Onad · Sat Aug 06, 11 8:17 am

Most excellent! Thanks for the timely updates!!