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.

Spring has sprung

By Elaine Campbell

Here’s what’s been going on in the world of the Campbell’s.

We went to the New England Triple Crown a couple of weeks ago. The Triple Crown has usually been a successful event for me but not this year. I’m not sure if it was lack of paddling or if I just wasn’t into competing that day or if it was the swim in cold ass water. Whatever it was, it was not a good day for me. I took a swim out of my wild water boat with my wing paddle, towards the end of the race. I wound up getting stuck on a left stroke going over the crux move and flipped. I tried to roll a few times but couldn’t get it to go and was needing air badly so I swam. I swam to shore swearing of course, got back in my swamped boat and crossed the finish line. My poor wild water boat took a beating! Lot’s of new cracks that Jeff finished patching up today. The swim during the race probably contributed to how poorly I paddled for the rest of the triple crown but it’s no excuse. I thought I could mentally handle a swim like that in a race that I was out to win, but clearly I couldn’t. I sub-consciously decided to check out of the competition after that. The last 4 swims I’ve had in the past 10 years have been 2 out of a wild water boat and 2 out of stout holes in upstate NY in my creek boat. Damn you wild water boats and creeking in NY! Anyway, Jeff had a great race and came in 10th place. He felt bad for me but at the same time was happy to of finally beat me. It was great to see local women like Barrett Phillips and Katelyn Green have a great competition.

After I recovered from my stomach ache of eating heapings of humble pie, spring run off started. I missed some of the good stuff because of some family obligations but got to paddle the Wave-O-Saurus on the Connecticut River in MA, the Searsburg section of the Deerfield River in VT and a couple of high water runs on the Dryway section of the Deerfield River in MA.

The Recon 70 still amazes me every time I paddle it. It handles great in all types of whitewater. The Mobius 49 killed it on the Wave-O. It was so smooth surfing and felt effortless throwing it around on the wave. I couldn’t be happier in my two Wave Sport boats!

My schedule changed so I’m staying local for a few more weeks and will attend some local races and events before I head to CO. This weekend is the All American River Race in Sturbridge, MA.

Oh, I also swim out of open boats!

I have put together a short video from a couple days of paddling.