Join a two-day ACA certification update at Zoar Outdoor on the Tuscarawas River. Perfect for seasoned paddlers and instructors, this course sharpens skills and introduces the latest safety techniques—all in a scenic Ohio setting.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape with basic paddling skills.
Wildlife
History
Zoar Outdoor is situated near Ohio’s historic Zoar Village, founded by German Separatists in 1817, which offers additional cultural insights after the course.
Conservation
Zoar Outdoor emphasizes eco-friendly paddling practices, encouraging Leave No Trace principles and minimal environmental impact.
Zoar Outdoor
Join a two-day ACA certification update at Zoar Outdoor on the Tuscarawas River. Perfect for seasoned paddlers and instructors, this course sharpens skills and introduces the latest safety techniques—all in a scenic Ohio setting.
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.
Arrive early
Get settled and prepare for a full day of hands-on paddling and instruction.
Bring extra dry clothing
Be prepared for splashes and changing weather, especially during rescue exercises.
Stay hydrated
Ensure you bring plenty of water to stay refreshed through the busy training days.
Comfortable footwear
Wear quick-drying shoes suitable for getting in and out of the water.
Paddling gloves
Protect your hands during intensive paddling and rescue drills.
summer
Water-resistant hat
Shield yourself from sun exposure during outdoor instruction.
summer
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Mandatory safety gear for all paddlers and instructors.
Sunscreen
Keep skin protected during prolonged days on or near the water.
summer