Active Pursuits

The Columbia Gorge is one of the nation's top windsurfing and kite-boarding spots, and if you're here to ride the wind, or just want to watch others as they race back and forth across the river, head to the fish hatchery, west of the mouth of the White Salmon River, or Swell City, a park about 3 miles west of the Hood River Bridge. Bob's Beach, in downtown Stevenson, is another popular spot.

When there isn't enough wind for sailing, there's still the option to go rafting on the White Salmon River. Companies offering raft trips on this river include Zoller's Outdoor Odysseys (tel. 800/366-2004 or 509/493-2641; www.zooraft.com), Wet Planet Rafting (tel. 800/306-1673; www.wetplanetrafting.com), and All Adventures Rafting (tel. 877/641-RAFT or 800/74-FLOAT; www.alladventures.net). Although the White Salmon can be rafted anytime of year, the most popular season runs from April through September. A half-day trip will cost around $60 or $65 per person.

If you're interested in a bit of horseback riding, contact Northwestern Lake Riding Stables, 126 Little Buck Creek Rd. (tel. 509/493-4965; www.nwstables.com), at Northwestern Lake off Wash. 141 north of White Salmon. A 1-hour ride is $30.