Columbia River (Mile 118)

Columbia River (Mile 118) off Goodnoe is a westerly-wind, flat-water kitesurfing location in the Columbia River Gorge where the dominant wind pattern comes from pressure-gradient flow reinforced by thermal effects through the Gorge. Sessions are typically best from May through September, with wind direction most often W, WNW, and NW. Wind builds into the afternoon, and peak conditions are commonly described around late morning through late afternoon (with region notes emphasizing about 11:00 AM–7:00 PM). Conditions are described as small and cloudy, with water reported as flat or flat/chop depending on the source. Riders should expect shallow-to-moderate areas in the flat-water sections (while another enrichment source describes deep water for wingfoiling feasibility). The core challenge is not the wave environment, but the river itself: strong currents are consistently flagged, and commercial shipping and barge traffic add significant safety considerations. Because of strong currents, remote launch access, and ship wake/traffic, the spot is generally most appropriate for intermediate to advanced riders—especially those who are comfortable with self-sufficient recovery planning. Kite and board control matters, since if you lose gear you may be pushed downstream quickly. Launch access is also highlighted as involving a dirt road and a railway-crossing approach, which requires careful, cautious preparation. Logistically, amenities are limited at the water access. Parking is described as available adjacent to the pullout, and toilets are mentioned in enrichment data, but food and on-site equipment rental are generally not described as available here. For emergencies, there is no dedicated on-site rescue, and riders are advised to use standard emergency procedures (911) and plan for rapid access to regional medical facilities.