Let the Gorge Challenge you! Compete in one of the worlds most epic downwind locations in the Columbia Gorge. We will be hosting races all weekend in Hood River, Oregon on August 16-17, 2025. 

In 2011, waterman Steve Gates and his team at Big Winds brought the Columbia Gorge Paddle Challenge to life in Hood River. Since then, the Gorge Challenge has evolved and become one of the most beloved community watersport events and competitive downwind races in the country.

As in past years and with Steve Gates’ vision of evolving the event and the sport of down winding, the 2025 Gorge Challenge will offer Wing Foiling, SUP Foiling, SUP, Prone, Surfski and Outrigger Canoe races.  Pro divisions will be offered in the Wing Foiling and SUP downwind and course races and there will be an Open division in all races. 

Visit our website www.gorgechallenge.org for race schedule updates and event information. We are excited to see everyone on the water this summer!