Build Class III skills on Deerfield River rapids with an ACA-certified instructor
9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Equipment, lunch, transport
Improve your precision kayaking in a full-day clinic on the Deerfield River, designed for Class II paddlers ready to push into Class III. Review fundamentals, practice advanced strokes, and apply them on whitewater runs with a 1:4 instructor-to-student ratio.
Ages 14+. You must be able to perform eddy turns, peel outs, and ferries in Class II water; self rescue; and roll about 50% in Class II water. You are required to wear sneakers or other shoes that can be secured to your feet.
If you cancel more than 30 days before your trip date, a $10 per person cancellation fee applies. If you cancel 30 days or less before your trip date, you forfeit the entire cost. Full refund or credit if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Arrive able to perform eddy turns, peel outs, and ferries in Class II water, complete self rescues, and roll about 50% of the time in Class II water. You should be able to cross challenging eddylines confidently and have started practicing your roll.
Wear sneakers or other shoes that can be secured to your feet (no flip-flops or Crocs) and avoid cotton. Bring items like sunscreen, sunglasses (with a retaining strap), nose plugs, a towel, any required medications, and extra money for snacks or souvenirs. Expect everything you bring with you to get wet.
Yes. If you own your own equipment, you can use it in the clinic to get used to its quirks.
Registration for our Paddlesports clinics takes place at 7 Main St. in Charlemont, MA (Rt. 2 as it goes through town).
Zoar Outdoor has built a genuine reputation as a top-tier whitewater destination, drawing praise not just for thrilling rafting trips but for its serious educational programs too. Guides like Ethan, Jasper, Calvin, and Big Dog get called out repeatedly for their skill, warmth, and ability to make both beginners and seasoned paddlers feel at ease on the water. One reviewer even ranked their swift water rescue training alongside nationally recognized paddling centers, which says a lot. The instruction side of the operation is particularly impressive. Kayak clinics, pool rolling sessions, and rescue courses are consistently described as well-organized, patient, and genuinely effective. Instructors including Mike, Sarah, Amanda, and Katrina are praised for personalizing their coaching and getting real results. It's the kind of place where people come once and keep coming back to sharpen their skills season after season. Family groups, first-timers, and experienced paddlers all seem to find something that fits here. The vibe is friendly and community-oriented without feeling watered-down or overly commercial. If you're looking for a river experience where the staff actually knows what they're doing and clearly loves the sport, this is a solid choice.
We had a really fun trip with Captain Calvin! Highly recommend.
Mary Beth King
April 26, 2026
We had a really fun trip with Captain Calvin! Highly recommend.
Mary Beth King
April 26, 2026