Gain vital river rescue skills in a hands-on two-day course at Zoar Outdoor. Led by expert instructors, you'll build confidence and safety techniques tailored for whitewater adventures. Read on to learn more.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have good overall fitness, capable of physical activity in water and outdoor conditions.
Wildlife
History
The White Mountains area has a long history of logging and outdoor recreation dating back to the 19th century.
Conservation
Zoar Outdoor emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and promotes river conservation efforts.
Zoar Outdoor
Gain vital river rescue skills in a hands-on two-day course at Zoar Outdoor. Led by expert instructors, you'll build confidence and safety techniques tailored for whitewater adventures. Read on to learn more.
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
Choose moisture-wicking, quick-drying gear to stay comfortable during in-water practice.
Bring waterproof footwear
Secure, non-slip shoes or boots keep you stable during river scenarios.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water between sessions to maintain energy and focus.
Listen carefully to instructions
Pay close attention to your instructor’s guidance for safe and effective techniques.
Quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable during active water rescue scenarios.
spring|summer|fall
Waterproof footwear
Provides grip and stability during river drills.
spring|summer|fall
Personal water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the training.
Sun protection
Sunscreen and hat protect from UV rays during outdoor training.
summer