Dryway Rafting
Ages
14+Duration
Under 5 HoursSeason
May–OctoberLocation
7 Main Street, Charlemont MAIntensity
Wild
Mild
Chill – These trips offer a mellow outdoor experience with a minimal (but not non-existent) chance of falling out of the boat. They require a basic level of fitness.
Moderate
Looking to Explore – These trips have some exciting parts and some more laid back parts. They require a moderate level of fitness.
Wild
Epic – These are our most exciting trips.
They require a higher level of fitness and carry a higher chance of falling out of the boat in challenging rapids.
Experience Class IV rafting excitement close to home on the Deerfield River’s most exciting section, the Monroe Bridge Dryway. Combining the rush of advanced whitewater, the beauty of the northern Berkshires and the camaraderie of a paddling adventure, a Dryway rafting trip will be the highlight of your summer.
A Typical Day
The Dryway trip meets at our base in Charlemont, Massachusetts. Please try to be on time, since we must work within the schedule of water releases decided on by the power company. You will be required to read and sign a release of liability. All guests will be required to wear a Zoar Outdoor issued PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and helmet. You will also be provided with a paddle. We raft a section of class III and IV whitewater on the Deerfield River in Northwestern Massachusetts. We put in below the #5 Station Dam and finish the trip at Dunbar Brook in Florida, MA. The trip usually takes about 4.5 hours overall, including registration, transportation to the river, a river side snack, a home cooked meal served at our base, and a slide show of your run through the biggest rapids.
Need to Know
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. However, we ask you to not wear cotton, as it will keep you cold and wet throughout the trip. Wool and synthetic materials such as polypropylene, nylon, and fleece, are appropriate for cooler weather and water temperatures.
Dryway water remains cool year round. Wetsuits, splash jackets, and neoprene river booties are available for rental. You are required to wear sneakers or other shoes that can be secured to your feet. No flip-flops or Crocs.
Bring any required medications as well as extra money for souvenirs, coin-operated showers, etc. You should leave valuables and dry clothes and towels for after the trip in your locked vehicle. We will collect your car keys and return them to you after the trip.
How do I know if this is the right trip for me?
- You should be comfortable in the water while wearing a pfd. You will need to be calm if you find yourself unexpectedly in the water.
- You should be able to lay flat on the water’s surface and orient your body so your feet are aiming downstream.
- You should be okay with a long, unexpected swim in rocky class III/IV rapids.
- You should be prepared to self rescue by swimming aggressively to shore or other rafts, and/or be prepared to receive a throw rope from shore.
- You should be able to paddle for up to 2 minutes at a time.
- You should be at least 14 years of age.
See All Dates & Prices
We absolutely loved our day whitewater rafting on the Deerfield River! The guides, the food, the experience, the thrill of it all - simply amazing!!
FAQs & More
How many people usually go in a boat?
We generally put 5 to 7 people in a boat, but this doesn’t mean that you need to have a group of 5 to 7 to go rafting. For example, if you’re reserving two people, you may be paired with a party of 4 or 5. If you have a group of 10 people, we would just divide you into two boats that travel together on the water.
Is it safe?
While we have an excellent record, the sports of whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, zip lining, rock climbing, skiing, snow shoeing and biking have inherent risks. It should be recognized that accidents can and do occur. For this reason, we cannot assume responsibility for injury or loss of property. Participants in all activities will be required to sign a waiver stating they are aware of the risks involved and are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Those with health problems limiting their normal activities may be prohibited from participation at Zoar Outdoor’s discretion. Pregnant women will be prohibited from participating in Zoar Outdoor Activities.
What if I have food allergies?
We do not use nuts in our food, but cannot 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. You’re also welcome to call our office at 1-800-532-7483 with any questions about the menu. If you intend to bring your own meal, please let us know ahead of time.
Can we rent Wetsuits?
Yes, we have wetsuits available to rent at Zoar Outdoor. Online or over the phone, you can pre-rent wetsuits for $15 plus tax; this package includes the wetsuit, a pair of river booties, and a splash jacket. Pre-rentals online or over the phone are non-refundable if you choose not to use them. You can also rent them here at Zoar before you trip for $15 for the wetsuit, and $7.50 each for the booties and the jacket or $25 for the whole package.
Are wetsuits required?
Wetsuits are not required, but we have them should you want them! Wetsuits are ideal for those wishing to layer up for colder weather or those who tend to get chilly easily. The extra wetsuit layer helps to keep you warm, so it depends on personal preference!
Will there be photos of my trip?
Yes! Our photographer will be stationed at one of the rapids taking high quality pictures of each raft. Back at base you’ll be able to view your photos, if you’d like you can purchase them on the spot.
Do you have group rates?
Yes! We have special pricing for youth groups, corporate groups, bachelor/bachelorette parties and family groups of 12 or more. Check out our group booking page for more details.
What happens if the forecast calls for rain or storms?
We run our trips rain or shine, so you should come prepared for the weather. If we do have to cancel the trip, that decision would be made on the morning of the trip. However, it’s rare that weather forces us to cancel our rafting trips. If you are concerned about the forecast for your trip, you’re welcome to give our office a call at 1-800-532-7483.
What do we do with our car keys?
Keep your car keys with you during registration, as we will collect those and put them in a lock box just before gearing up, then return them to you when you get off the boats.
Should I tip my guide?
This is completely at your discretion. If you feel the service you receive from your guide is exceptional, and you want to say “thank you” with a tip, although it is not expected, it is always appreciated.
Can I request a guide?
If you have had a guide you especially liked and would like to have them guide your next trip, we will do our best to match their schedule to yours. Simply request your guide when you make your reservation. Please be aware that we are not always able to match request, but we will do our best!
Alcohol and Drug Policy
The use of recreational drugs or alcohol is prohibited on all programs. If you arrive here under the influence, you will be prohibited from participating in the day’s activity and you will not receive a refund.
Don’t see availabilities on the date you’re looking for? Check out the Monroe Bridge Rafting trip at our sister location at Berkshire East! They’re located across the river from us in Charlemont!
