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Whitewater Rafting with Zoar Outdoor on Vermont's West River - Brattleboro

Whitewater Rafting with Zoar Outdoor on Vermont's West River

Charlemont

Difficulty

Duration

Fitness Level

Overview

Dive into Vermont’s only whitewater rafting adventure with Zoar Outdoor on the West River. Experience thrilling rapids, scenic views, and expert guidance on this exciting half-day trip.

Rafting
Charlemont, Massachusetts

West River Rafting

Class III & IV Rapids | A Vermont classic | Ages 10+

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Adventure Photos

West River Rafting photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience Vermont's only whitewater rafting adventure on the thrilling Class III and IV rapids of the West River. Perfect for ages 10 and up, this half-day trip offers breathtaking views and exhilarating challenges, including the notorious Dumplings rapid. Wetsuits are provided, ensuring a memorable and action-packed outdoor experience.

Vermont's Only Whitewater Rafting Adventure!


Rates

Spring & Fall

  • Per Person (Ages 10+): $115
  • Wetsuits are included

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


Duration and Location

  • Half-day trips starting at 9:30 and 1:00. Wetsuits are included with each trip
  • West River Trips meet at the Jamaica Fire Station in Jamaica, VT

About The West River

Enjoy an active Vermont vacation on the Class III and IV rapids of the West River near Stratton Mountain, one of the state's hidden treasures and your only opportunity for Vermont whitewater. This intermediate-level white water rafting trip is an ideal way to view the fall foliage or the spring thaw. We welcome rafters ages 10 and up on this popular Vermont whitewater rafting trip.

We raft a section of class III and III+ whitewater on the West River, putting in below the Ball Mountain Dam and finishing across from the Jamaica State Forest. Our first taste of big whitewater comes at Landslide rapid, just below the put-in. Two miles of continuous rapids later we meet our biggest challenge at the Dumplings where negotiating the river’s natural s-turn pushes each raft’s paddling skills to the limit.

Participants on West River trips should be prepared for a fairly strenuous walk down a steep rocky trail at the beginning of the trip. Participants on this trip may be required to swim aggressively in rocky, fast whitewater.


What To Bring and Wear

Expect everything you bring with you on the raft to get wet!

  • Wetsuits, splash jackets, and neoprene river booties are provided for the West River Trip at no extra charge. We ask you to not wear cotton, as it will keep you cold and wet throughout the trip.
  • In cooler weather, wool and synthetic materials such as polypropylene, nylon, and fleece, are suggested to wear under the wetsuits for cooler air and water temperatures.
  • You are required to wear sneakers or other shoes that can be secured to your feet if you prefer to not wear the river booties provided. 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 West River 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 the West River 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.

On the West River trip, longer unexpected swims in rocky class III/IV rapids are possible, and guests need to be prepared to self-rescue by swimming aggressively to shore or other rafts, and/or be prepared to receive a throw rope from shore.

Don't forget to read your confirmation letter (there is a lot of useful information in there!). And remember: This trip meets in Jamaica, Vermont. Please click on the Directions link on this page for more details. Please also take the time to fill out your online guest details (available through your confirmation) as fully as possible, as this helps us provide correctly sized wetsuits and booties for everyone. Call our office if you have any additional questions. We're always happy to help!

Adventure Tips

Wear Quick-Drying Clothing

Opt for clothes that dry quickly and consider a change of dry clothes for after the trip.

Listen to Your Guides

Follow safety instructions carefully as rapid navigation is complex and requires teamwork.

Prepare for Splash Risks

Expect to get wet—secure loose items and wear waterproof gear.

Check Weather Forecast

Ensure suitable conditions and gear adjustments for weather changes before heading out.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • River otters

History

The West River has a rich history dating back to the 1800s, initially serving as a trade route for local communities.

Conservation

Zoar Outdoor emphasizes environmental sustainability, following best practices to protect Vermont’s pristine waterways.

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Adventure Hotspots in Brattleboro

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Quick-Drying Towel

Essential

Useful for drying off after getting wet during the trip.

Waterproof Helmet

Essential

Crucial for safety on rapid sections.

Waterproof Phone Case

Keeps your phone safe from splashes and rain.

Change of Dry Clothes

Essential

Important for comfort after the water activities.