Guided Kayak Rentals on the Deerfield River

Kayaking down Massachusetts' Deerfield River is a great way to see the Berkshires and to spend a warm summer day outside and active! These boats are easy to paddle and very stable, making them a great way to get a taste of whitewater kayaking with minimal instruction. 

We rent both single and double kayaks daily from May through September. Singles are great for those 10 years old and over who want the freedom to challenge the river on their own, while doubles give kids as young as 7 an opportunity to share a boat with an adult and enjoy the river. Guides accompany every trip on the river to help you find the correct line and to maximize your river experience.

Guide Assisted Sit on Top Kayak Rentals

While these trips are not instructional clinics, they are a wonderful way to explore the Deerfield River with a guide close by to offer support, paddling suggestions and insight into the natural and cultural history of the area. 

Our trip features both Class I and II rapids. With opportunities to swim and splash in the waters of the Deerfield, this trip provides a wonderful afternoon adventure for families, schools, scout and camp groups. We meet at 1:45 each day and the trip takes about 3 to 3 1/2 hours, including registration, outfitting and transportation to the river.

Trip Dates and Prices
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tl_files/zoar/images/globalLayout/color-orange.gif Self-guided Kayak Rentals

$35.00 per adult & $29.00 per youth on Weekdays, $39.00 per adult & $33.00 per youth on Weekends

May 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31

June 8, 9, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

July 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28

August 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 31

September 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15



Trip Details

When & Where Do We Meet?

Guided kayak rentals meet at 1:45pm at Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont. We are located on Route 2, 20 miles west of Greenfield, Mass. and 20 miles east of North Adams, Mass. in the town of Charlemont. From the east, take Route 2 to Route 91 south. Get off at exit 26 (Greenfield) and proceed on Route 2 west 20 miles to Charlemont. From the north or south on Route 91, get off at exit 26 and proceed west on Route 2 as above. From the west, take Route 2 and proceed 20 miles east from North Adams. Our base is the red house on the north side of the highway on the western outskirts of the town center. Look for the blue, white, and green sign.

How Much Experience Do I Need?

You should have some canoeing or kayaking experience, or be gung ho, in good physical shape and comfortable in the water. Participants must be at least 10 years old for a single kayak and 7 years old (with an adult) for a double kayak. You will have to paddle and may have to self rescue by climbing back up onto the kayak from the water or swimming the kayak, the paddle and yourself to shore.

What Should I Wear?

Dress to get wet. A bathing suit, shorts and a t-shirt with sneakers or water shoes work well on a warm summer day. Always bring a fleece top or wool sweater, windbreaker and wool socks in case the weather turns cooler. We rent wetsuits for early spring and fall days when the water is cooler. Bring a towel and an extra set of clothing to change into after the trip. We provide paddles, helmets and PFD's.

Do I Need a Reservation?

While you may be able to walk in without a reservation, it is a good idea to reserve ahead to ensure we have a boat for you. Busy weekends and weekdays in the summer book well in advance.

Our trips go rain or shine, however, Zoar Outdoor reserves the right to cancel trips when, in our judgment, weather or river conditions are unsuitable. If this is the case, we will inform you as early as possible.

We include a light snack on sit on top kayak trips.  

The following statement is required by state law: "Before placing your order, please inform your server if a person in your party has a food allergy."

We do not use nuts in our food, but can not guarantee that the ingredients in our meals do not contain nuts or other food allergens. If you have food allergies or other special dietary needs, we strongly suggest you bring your own bag lunch in non-glass containers and we will pack it with the other lunches on your trip. Please inform our office at 800 532-7483 or info@zoaroutdoor.com if you intend to do this.

Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the Deerfield River by state law. We reserve the right to check any coolers or containers brought on the trip prior to launch.