Adventure Collective
Guided River Kayaking on Deerfield River with Zoar Outdoor - Albany, NY

Guided River Kayaking on Deerfield River with Zoar Outdoor

Charlemontmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–3.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for participants in average physical condition comfortable with light paddling and some swimming

Overview

Paddle the Deerfield River’s gentle rapids with Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont, MA. This family-friendly guided kayak trip mixes approachable thrills with stunning Berkshire scenery and expert guidance.

Charlemont, Massachusetts

Guided River Kayaking

Pilot Your Own Boat | Ages 10+

Kayak

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

Guided River Kayaking photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of kayaking on the Deerfield River, navigating Class I-II rapids while enjoying the stunning Berkshires. Perfect for families and groups, this half-day adventure includes guided support, opportunities to swim, and a snack. Get ready for an unforgettable day of fun and excitement on the water!

Captain Your Own Kayak! Class I-II rapids


Single kayaks can be booked online and are intended for anyone 10 years or older and under 250 lbs. Larger Inflatable Kayaks are intended to be used by one person who exceeds 250 lbs, taller than 6'3. Due to limited availability, Large inflatable kayaks need to be booked over the phone 413-339-4010.

Rates

Peak Season Only

Per Person

  • $62

*One person rides for free with every 12 guests booked!


Duration and Location

  • Half day trip, snack included.
  • All Guided River Kayaking Trips meet at our base in Charlemont, MA

About Guided River Kayaking

Kayaking down Massachusetts' Deerfield River is a great way to see the Berkshires and spend a warm summer day outside and active! These boats are easy to paddle and very stable, making them a great way to get a taste of whitewater kayaking with minimal instruction.

While these trips are not instructional clinics, guides accompany every trip helping you find the correct line to maximize your river experience.

Featuring both Class I and II rapids, as well as opportunities to swim and splash in the waters of the Deerfield, this trip provides a wonderful afternoon adventure for families, schools, scout and camp groups. The trip takes about 3 to 3 1/2 hours, including registration, outfitting and transportation to or from the river.


What To Bring and Wear

Expect everything you bring with you in the kayak to get wet!

  • In warm summer weather, some guests are comfortable in bathing suits/swim trunks or light layers. Shorts and sun shirts are recommended, as most guests find just bathing suits uncomfortable.

  • In cooler weather, wool and synthetic materials such as polypropylene, nylon, and fleece, are appropriate for cooler air and water temperatures.

  • Wetsuits, splash jackets, and neoprene river booties are available for rental if you need them. We ask you to not wear cotton, as it will keep you cold and wet throughout the trip.

  • You are required to wear sneakers or other shoes that can be secured to your feet. No flip-flops or Crocs!

  • Extra money for souvenirs, snacks, gratuities, etc.

  • Bring any required medications such as EpiPen, inhalers, diabetic medications.

  • Before the trip, please leave any and all valuables including money as well as your dry clothes and towels for after the trip in your locked vehicle. Keep your car keys with you during registration, as we will collect those and put them in a lock box before gearing up, then return them to you when you get off the boats.


Participation Requirements

Adventurers on the Guided River Kayaking Trip:

  • Must be 10 years old or older.
  • Must sign their own waiver, and if under 18 also have a legal guardian sign for them.

For all of our whitewater trips, guests must be able/willing to do the following:

  • Must wear our helmet and our personal flotation device (PFD)*.
  • Respond to and follow verbal or visual instruction.
  • Independently roll face up in water while wearing a PFD
  • Demonstrate dynamic sitting position with head above water (sitting upright), and float with feet up in water.
  • Be able to navigate with minimal assistance on rocky, uneven ground and descend staircases with no railings.

*Our helmets fit a maximum head circumference of 62cm (24.4 inches). Our PFDs fit a maximum chest size of 56 inches.

Specifically for our Guided River Kayaking trip, guests should be able to:

  • Paddle in the rapids, but with frequent rests.
  • Remain calm, lay flat, and orient their body so their feet are aiming downstream if they find themselves unexpectedly in the water.

Don't forget to read your confirmation letter (there is a lot of useful information in there!). Call our office if you have any additional questions. We're always happy to help!

Adventure Tips

Wear Shoes That Stay Secure

Closed-toe shoes with straps or laces are required; avoid flip-flops or Crocs to keep your feet protected and stable in the kayak.

Bring a Change of Dry Clothes

Expect to get wet—carry a quick-drying set of clothes and a towel for after your trip on the riverbank.

Hydrate and Snack Smart

Though snacks are provided, bring water and nutrition that keep your energy up for paddling and swimming breaks.

Check Weather and River Conditions

River flow and weather vary seasonally; confirm conditions ahead to dress accordingly and ensure a safe trip.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagle – occasionally spotted soaring overhead or perched near the riverbank.
  • River otter – playful sightings possible in calmer river sections during spring and summer.

History

The Deerfield River valley was historically a corridor for early settlers and native tribes, and later played a role in New England’s industrial waterpower development.

Conservation

Zoar Outdoor supports river stewardship by promoting leave-no-trace principles and partnering with local groups to monitor river health and habitat preservation.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Albany, NY

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Secure Water Shoes

Essential

Protects feet and ensures grip inside the kayak during wet and slippery conditions.

summer specific

Quick-Drying Clothing

Essential

Light layers or swimwear to stay comfortable while wet and avoid chafing.

summer specific

Neoprene Splash Jacket

Helps retain body heat during cooler spring trips on the river.

spring specific

Reusable Water Bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated throughout the paddle and swim breaks.