The Gorge is my Gym

Hi Everyone, and Happy 4th of July!

First off, despite the early morning glassiness on the river, there’s going to be just enough wind to get you out for some kiting or windsurfing today. Blazing hot desert temperatures today combine with just plain hot temperatures in Porltand for some afternoon westerlies in the 17-20 range. Gradients are already at .06, and they’ll come up a little later, so we may get lucky with some low-twenties.

Tomorrow starts off with upper teen winds in the corridor, as marine clouds make a little more progress towards Portland. The onshore push begins in earnest in the afternoon, sending corridor winds climbing and climbing and climbing. Timing is everything, of course, but I think we’ll see 23-26 tomorrow afternoon, maybe even stronger

Westerlies keep building overnight, and predicted highs in Portland drop 20 degrees on Monday. That’s a recipe for a nuclear day on Monday. Prepare yourself.

Really, I know better than to predict that far in advance, but hey, it’s a holiday, so why not?!

Enjoy the fireworks and parties tonight, and have an awesome day today!

Good morning everyone!

First off, the wind forecast. Despite near-neutral gradients yesterday, there was just enough wind for a few kiters to hit the water in Stevenson. We’re starting off with very weak westerly gradients today, so we’ll likely see weak westerlies through Stevenson and the Corridor this evening, perhaps 14-17 or so.

I think we’ll see very light westerlies tomorrow, as a weak marine push works its way towards Portland. There’s not going to be much marine layer, so 13-16 is the likely wind strength tomorrow. Sunday looks similar to tomorrow, with a chance of 23-26 in the late afternoon with a chance of thunderstorms too!

All these light wind days are good for morning road biking and mountain biking. I’m hearing whispers, not confirmed yet, that Plains of Abraham is open for you mountain bikers. We’ll know for sure by Monday. In the meantime, you can find a list of open mountain bike trails at thegorgeismygym.com. While there, make sure to add your comments on current conditions to keep everyone updated!

On a slightly different topic… If you haven’t heard yet, it’s a record cherry season in the Northwest. If you’re looking for a place to get your hands on some, head over to Lori Middleton’s place at Markham and Royal Anne – follow the u-pick signs – for some delicious cherries. U-pick there is just $1 a pound.

Finally, don’t forget that tonight is First Friday in Hood River. It’s gong to be a big one. While you’re there, do swing by Solo gallery for Lars’ handmade surfboards and Sorca’s “water is life” paintings! I’ve been promised that this is a really cool show, so let’s all show up!

Whatever you do today, have an awesome day!

Temira