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Swell City-Hatchery Overview
Swell City down to the Hatchery is arguably the most sailed stretch of river in the Columbia River Gorge. Strong westerly winds moving against a steady current create over 100 sub 5.0 days per season from April through September. Very popular with advanced level sailors, access to the river is somewhat restricted as the shoreline is quite rocky and currents are swift. On really windy days, 6-8 foot breaking swells commonly form making for some incredible surfing and airtime. Parking can be difficult in this area during June, July, and August, so be prepared to get creative and/or walk a little bit.
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| Season: |
Best: April-Sept |
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| Water: |
med-lrg swells |
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| Ability Level: |
advanced/jumps |
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| Familiness: |
Beware-Fast highway traff |
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| Parking: |
small parking area |
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| Launch: |
rocky, easy |
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Sensor Notes
This sensor is located on a bluff that sticks out into the river just east of Swell City and west of the Hatchery. It is a very important sensor site, often useful in determining sailing conditions throughout the Corridor area of the Gorge. Figure that readings averaging 23-25 will indicate 5.0m sailing on an 80 liter board for a 200 lb. sailor. Winds blowing SW, W, and NW are all picked up nicely at this sensor site but be aware that conditions downwind at the Hatchery can differ. Also worthy of note is the height of the sensor above the river (approximately 10m) and this translates to the fact that windspeed differences may exist between the sensor location and the water's surface (sailing area).
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