Join Zoar Outdoor's one-day clinic on the Deerfield River to sharpen your kayaking techniques. Perfect for intermediate paddlers, this experience combines expert instruction with the thrill of conquering Class III rapids—an opportunity not to be missed for serious whitewater enthusiasts.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
1 day (about 6 hours including lunch and breaks)
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, with paddling experience and the ability to handle sustained effort.
Wildlife
History
The Deerfield River has been a vital transportation route since colonial times, and its rapids have challenged paddlers for generations.
Conservation
Zoar Outdoor emphasizes sustainable paddling practices to preserve the river's natural beauty and ecological health.
Zoar Outdoor
Join Zoar Outdoor's one-day clinic on the Deerfield River to sharpen your kayaking techniques. Perfect for intermediate paddlers, this experience combines expert instruction with the thrill of conquering Class III rapids—an opportunity not to be missed for serious whitewater enthusiasts.
Zoar Outdoor is a paddlesports outfitter based in Jamaica, Vermont, specializing in whitewater kayaking, rafting, and instructional clinics. The company runs a wide range of guided trips and training courses that serve beginners through advanced paddlers. Offerings include multi-day beginner immersion courses, one- and two-day skills clinics, guided river kayaking, family float trips, and whitewater rafting on local rivers such as the Deerfield River, West River, Concord River, and the Zoar Gap section.
Zoar Outdoor hosts American Canoe Association (ACA) instructor certification workshops and ACA current instructor update courses, as well as Swiftwater Rescue certification and skills courses. Several clinics and courses list ACA-certified instruction and dedicated coaching for stroke development, technical skills, and rescue training. The schedule includes options for private, semi-private, and small-group clinics, plus specially designed group custom paddlesports days for 3–4 people.
Many day clinics and multi-day courses include catered lunches and on-water coaching focused on progression, safety, and technique. Advanced clinics cover class III techniques and technical river maneuvers; rescue courses emphasize essential rescue skills and swiftwater response.
Zoar Outdoor runs sessions on named river sections such as Fife Brook and Zoar Gap, and offers youth-focused clinics including teen beginner immersion programs.
All program descriptions and course titles are published in the company’s trip listings. The business operates from Jamaica, Vermont, and programs regularly reference local New England rivers and whitewater sections used for instruction and guided trips.
Schedule details, pricing, and trip-specific skill requirements are listed on the company's public trip pages online regularly.
Location
Jamaica, Vermont
Operating on local rivers and runs
Tours Offered
26 Experiences
Rafting, kayaking, clinics, guided runs
ACA Programs
Certification Workshops
Instructor certification and updates offered
Group Options
Private & Group Clinics
Semi-private, private, and custom group days
Check available dates for beginner to advanced clinics, guided kayaking, family floats, and ACA instructor workshops — plan a paddling day in Jamaica, Vermont.
Wear a Thermally Insulating Layer
The water can be chilly even in summer; dressing appropriately helps maintain comfort and safety.
Check Water Levels Beforehand
River flow varies with recent rain and snowmelt; ensure conditions are suitable for intermediate paddling.
Practice Defensive Paddling
Focus on techniques that help you stay in control and avoid obstacles in rapid sequences.
Bring a Dry Bag
Secure valuables and extra gear to stay dry during turbulent sections.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A properly fitted PFD is critical for safety during whitewater paddling.
Helmet
Protects your head from impacts with rocks or debris in rapid sections.
Water-Resistant Clothing
Keeps you dry and comfortable regardless of water spray or weather conditions.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Lightweight Paddle
A responsive paddle helps execute advanced strokes more precisely.