Charlemont, MA –– In order to enhance the ride whitewater rafters receive this summer on western Massachusetts’ Deerfield River Dryway, Zoar Outdoor has purchased several new rafts with tubes that diminish in size toward each end, allowing them to cut through waves and creating a more exciting trip on this advanced, technical run.
The new design is based on testing done over the last couple of summers on the river. Zoar Outdoor worked closely with Northwest River Supplies in Idaho to develop a boat ideally suited to the Deerfield’s steep, technical rapids. “We’re really excited to be working with NRS on a boat that fits our river so well,” says Kevin McMillan, Director of Rafting Programs at Zoar Outdoor.
Steve Farley, NRS Northeast Sales Representative explains, “We figured that if we could build a boat that would be fun and perform well for Zoar on the Deerfield River, that it would appeal to outfitters nationwide. Zoar is the first company in the country to use these 13-foot rafts and we will be looking for feedback on them.”
The Dryway is the most advanced raft trip Zoar Outdoor offers. It is run on 32 annual water releases from hydroelectric dams on the river. These releases occur on weekends and Fridays and provide reliable flows throughout the summer. The Dryway is one of the most technical runs in the northeast and is only 2 to 3 hours from New York, Boston, and other major metropolitan centers. Early season discounts for the Dryway are offered on May 29, 30, June 18 and 25. For more information on Dryway raft trips call 800-532-7483 or seewww.zoaroutdoor.com/deerfieldriverrafting.htm.
Zoar Outdoor is an outdoor center located in western Massachusetts that offers whitewater rafting, kayak and canoe instruction, rock climbing adventures and bike rentals as well as on-site lodging and camping.
