Join expert instructor Mike Mather at Zoar Outdoor for a rigorous 3-day swiftwater rescue course in the White Mountains. Perfect for rescue professionals and whitewater enthusiasts alike, this training enhances your safety skills in fast-moving waters.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape, capable of swimming and handling strenuous activity in water.
Wildlife
History
Zoar Outdoor has been a leader in whitewater training since the early 1990s, helping countless rescue teams and adventurers enhance their skills.
Conservation
The region emphasizes sustainable recreational practices, promoting river stewardship and minimal environmental impact through responsible outdoor conduct.
Zoar Outdoor
Join expert instructor Mike Mather at Zoar Outdoor for a rigorous 3-day swiftwater rescue course in the White Mountains. Perfect for rescue professionals and whitewater enthusiasts alike, this training enhances your safety skills in fast-moving waters.
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 proper gear
Ensure you have a well-fitting personal flotation device and helmet to stay safe amid swift currents.
Practice teamwork
Focus on clear communication and coordinated rescue techniques for effective emergency response.
Know your limits
Don't push beyond your skill level—always stay within the scope of your training to prevent accidents.
Check water conditions
Review river flow reports before the course to ensure optimal and safe training conditions.
Rapid rescue gloves
Protect your hands during rescue practice and handling ropes.
Wet suit
Helps keep you warm and buoyant in colder water conditions.
spring|fall|winter
Throw bag with rope
Essential for practicing rescue throws in real scenarios.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps your valuables dry and accessible during training.