Adventure Collective
null - Northampton, Massachusetts

Zoar Gap Rafting

Charlemontmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical condition with basic swimming ability.

Overview

Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping adventure on the Deerfield River with Zoar Gap Rafting in Massachusetts. Discover why this popular rafting trip is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts seeking excitement and scenic beauty.

Rafting
Charlemont, Massachusetts

Zoar Gap Rafting

Operated by Zoar Outdoor | Ages 7+

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Adventure Photos

Zoar Gap Rafting photo 1

About This Adventure


Rates:

Peak Season -June 21st - August 31st

Saturday Rates Per Person: $115

Sunday Rates Per Person: $110

Weekday Rates Per Person: $99

Early/Late Season - April 1st to June 20th, September & October

Saturday Rates Per Person: $85

Sunday Rates Per Person: $80

Weekday Rates Per Person: $75

*One person rides for free with every 12 guests booked! *Wetsuits included 4/1-5/24. Rentals available during peak and fall season.


Duration & Location

  • All Zoar Gap trips meet at our base in Charlemont, Massachusetts.
  • Included in the trip is a delicious picnic-style lunch with wraps and cookies.
  • Food for our non-guaranteed trips will be served after the trip while you enjoy the post trip slideshow.

About Zoar Gap Rafting

Take your family, office, church, or scout group rafting on the Deerfield River's most popular rafting section, Zoar Gap. With a minimum age of 7, these Class II whitewater rapids with one Class III rapid are ideal for beginner rafters.

Our Zoar Gap trip spans 5 miles of water adventure. The class II rapids at the beginning of the trip allow crews to hone their skills in preparation for the exciting class III whitewater of Zoar Gap. Along the way there are opportunities to swim or simply relax as we raft back to our basecamp where hot showers and a slide show of the day’s adventure await.


What To Bring and Wear

Expect everything you bring with you on the raft 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 Zoar Gap Trip:

  • Must be 7 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 beginner Zoar Gap 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 Appropriate Footwear

Secure, closed-toe shoes are recommended to protect your feet and provide stability during the trip.

Check Water Levels

River conditions vary seasonally; contact Zoar Outdoor beforehand to ensure optimal water flow for rafting.

Dress for the Weather

Layer up or wear waterproof clothing depending on the season to stay comfortable in varying conditions.

Book in Advance

Popular times fill quickly, so reserve your spot early to secure your preferred date and time.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • River otters
  • Great blue herons

History

The Deerfield River was historically used for logging transport, and the area is rich in New England forestry history.

Conservation

Zoar Outdoor emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including river cleanup initiatives and minimal environmental impact during trips.

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Adventure Hotspots in Northampton, Massachusetts

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Life Jacket

Essential

Vital for safety, providing buoyancy during the river trip.

Waterproof Clothing

Essential

Keeps you dry and comfortable during splashes and rain.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Secure Footwear

Essential

Closed-toe shoes with good grip are necessary for safety and stability.

Sunscreen

Protect your skin from UV rays during outdoor exposure.

summer specific