Run Class III–IV rapids on Vermont’s West River (ages 10+)
Half-day
Wetsuits, splash jackets, booties
Paddle an intermediate whitewater run on the West River near Stratton Mountain, with Class III and IV rapids. Start from Jamaica, Vermont and take on stretches like Landslide rapid and the Dumplings.
Ages 10+ only; participants under 18 need a legal guardian to sign. You must be able to follow instructions and move on rocky, uneven ground; longer unexpected swims are possible.
If you cancel more than 30 days before your trip, a $10 per person cancellation fee applies. If you cancel 30 days or less before, you forfeit the full cost. Full refund or credit if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Wear non-cotton layers (synthetics or wool work well under the provided wetsuits in cooler weather). Wear sneakers or other shoes that secure to your feet if you don’t use the provided neoprene river booties (no flip-flops or Crocs). Bring any required medications (for example, an EpiPen or inhaler) and consider extra money for souvenirs, snacks, and gratuities. Expect anything you bring on the raft to get wet.
Be ready for a fairly strenuous walk down a steep, rocky trail at the beginning. You may need to move on rocky, uneven ground, and longer unexpected swims in rocky, fast whitewater are possible, so you should be prepared to swim aggressively and self-rescue.
You must be at least 10 years old. Everyone must sign a waiver, and participants under 18 also need a legal guardian to sign.
Jamaica, VT
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