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.

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.

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.

Is there any food served?

Since our Concord River trips are half-day long, we do not serve any food.

Can we rent wetsuits?

Wetsuit packages are included in this trip at no extra cost!

Are wetsuits required?

Wetsuits are not required, but included in the cost 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 the class III rapid taking high quality pictures of each raft. Back at base you’ll be able to view your photos in the rafting pavilion. If you’d like, you can purchase the photos of your raft.

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.

Where do we park? What do we do with our car keys?

There is PARKING available at the Lower Locks Garage next to the hotel. 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.

Cayuga Lake SUP Cup

By Elaine Campbell

Jeff and I decided to go to the Cayuga Lake SUP Cup this past weekend in Lansing, NY. This was my second flat water race and Jeff’s first. I entered the elite race which was six miles and Jeff did the recreational race which was three miles.

I’m not an elite racer by any means but I can paddle for a long period of time thanks to my wild water training. The weather was ok with cool temps and no rain but a massive head wind that put the beat down on you for about two and a half miles. The race started with a mass start with racers in the water. It makes the start a bit chaotic but pretty fun when everyone is jumping on there boards trying to get a good start. The first part of the race to the first buoy was about two miles that was a bit of a downwinder. I fell in about a mile into the race when I got caught on an edge and was hit by a wave. That was a bummer because two people passed me soon after that. I made it t to the first buoy and made the turn to head to the second buoy. Here was where the head wind came into play for about two and a half miles. I gave it everything I had here and passed the two people who passed me after I fell in. I felt like I had to give it everything I had because if I let up I was just going to get pushed back by the wind. The other challenge besides the wind was that you had to paddle pretty much on one side, the right side. When you paddled on your left side your board would want to head in the opposite direction of where you wanted to go, thanks to the wind. Holy cow, I have never felt pain like that before. My right arm and left shoulder screamed at me the entire time to stop. I occasionally did by taking a few paddle strokes on my left side and using a cross bow stroke to give my right side a break. I finally made the turn around the second buoy and was heading to the finish. I still had to paddle hard for the last mile and a half but it was such a relief to be out of that head wind. I crossed the finish line and came in third place.

Jeff had a great race and is real excited about entering some more SUP races. He did well coming in third place in the recreational race and he took first in his age group. I didn’t get to watch him race because the rec class started 15 minutes after the elite race. We had a great weekend and are looking forward to more races next year. The organizers did a great job with this event and am excited about going back next year.