Join Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont for a two-day intermediate kayaking course that boosts your skills and confidence on whitewater. Perfect for paddlers with some experience, this guided adventure combines technique, safety, and stunning river scenery.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days, approximately 8 hours each day
Fitness Level
Participants should have good upper-body strength and basic paddling experience, comfortable in water and physically fit.
Wildlife
History
The Berkshires have a rich history in logging and rafting, which contributed to the development of whitewater recreation in the area.
Conservation
Zoar Outdoor emphasizes river conservation by practicing Leave No Trace principles and supporting local environmental initiatives.
Zoar Outdoor
Join Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont for a two-day intermediate kayaking course that boosts your skills and confidence on whitewater. Perfect for paddlers with some experience, this guided adventure combines technique, safety, and stunning river scenery.
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 quick-drying clothing
Ensure your clothes dry quickly and dry fast if you get splashed or wet during the course.
Pack sun protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun during outdoor breaks.
Hydrate regularly
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay energized and alert on the water.
Arrive prepared with waterproof gear
Use waterproof bags and gear to keep essentials dry during rainy or splashing moments.
Wetsuit or drysuit
Keeps you warm in colder water temperatures during the course.
spring|winter
Personal flotation device (PFD)
A properly fitted PFD is essential for safety on all water levels.
Waterproof sunblock
Protects your skin from sun exposure during long hours on the water.
summer
Water-resistant shoes
Protect your feet and provide grip while launching and paddling.