Nearby Wind & Kitesurfing spots

[baliweber]

I'm new to Minnesota and with the ice melting looking forward to many hours on the water. I was just wondering what the best spots are in the summer for wind and kitesurfing within about 50 miles of Minneapolis? And lakes that are not too overcrowded so that I don't get into anyones way? Appreciate anyones input. I'm not too worried about space for setting up, a parking lot is fine. Preferably onshore conditions. Thanks

[Dave Z]

Check out the Lakes section of the site for starters if you have not already:

http://www.lakawa.com/lakes/lakes.html

Near town Waconia is best of the West. White Bear offers up plenty of launch spots for the East Siders. If your skills are new or rusty Mille can't be beat but it's outside your 50 mile range.

[baliweber]

thank you for the tips! much appreciated

[Nathan B]

lake Mille Lacs

[bmr]

Re: Calhoun

Nathan, long time no see! Congrats on the Nat'l Rider spot!

I agree, you did open a can o' worms .

I had my first rides (downwinders) there in 2001 or so with my 2line Wipika Classic - that day I nearly stepped on a rusty syringe and was later towed to shore by a fisherman after my lines got snarled up around the kite and the oh-so-safe wrist leash about ripped my arm off. Those were the days!

Anyways...it is gusty and there are alot of other non-kiting lakegoers to contend with and answer for if you cause collateral damage. Pretty sure Lakawanians and us in the "Fringe" will all be pi$$ed if someone gives the kiting community any kind of negative publicity. Just use common sense.

Metaphors be with you.

[Nathan B]

what up Brad! it has been awhile be great to see you out some time! Thanks man am stoked to be part of such a solid company with amazing innovations in our sport.. You should come hit up Mille with us this summer its a much better experience then trying to learn on Calhoun if thats where you were doing your first downwinders for kitesurfing which is very bad spot for learning.
dude I love that two line wipika! sheetability is way over rated! I still use a OG pulley bar when conditions allow on my C kites.

[bmr]

That's a bummer to hear about the negative pub and complaints....I guess it is time to get our heads together again. ( If there's beer involved or onsite count me in! )

Yo, I'll try to get out to Milly and meet up this summer....need to dust off my water gear and get dialed in again, it's been way too long! Maybe bust out my Wip Inferno for nostalgia sake?!! That'd be fun on a SUP!

Keep the C-kite vibe alive!

~B

[Nathan B]

inferno would be sick for that!