CHARLEMONT RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Zoar Gap Rafting: Five miles of Class II–III whitewater on the Deerfield River
A beginner-friendly, family-oriented rafting run out of Charlemont that covers what to expect on the water, what to bring, age and safety requirements, and logistics for your day.
Zoar Gap Rafting: Five miles of Class II–III whitewater on the Deerfield River.
Zoar Gap Rafting runs the Deerfield River’s most popular section—a five‑mile trip that introduces paddlers to Class II whitewater with a single Class III rapid. Ideal for families, groups, and first‑time rafters (minimum age 7), the route mixes playful rapids with opportunities to swim or relax before returning to basecamp for hot showers and a post‑trip slideshow.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Five miles of progressive whitewater
The run starts with Class II stretches that let crews build confidence, then culminates in the single Class III rapid that gives this section its name—Zoar Gap—making it a popular beginner whitewater adventure.
Swim breaks, paddling practice, and a communal return
Along the way there are chances to swim or simply relax; crews practice paddling in milder rapids before the big drop, then raft back to camp where hot showers and a slideshow wrap the day.
Picnic lunch and Charlemont basecamp
Trips meet at the operator’s base in Charlemont and include a picnic‑style lunch; on some non‑guaranteed trips food is served after the run during the post‑trip slideshow.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day is equal parts instruction and play: crews hone basic paddle skills in Class II water, tackle the named Class III rapid as a highlight, and punctuate the trip with swims and downtime on calmer stretches. After five miles on the river you return to camp for a communal wind‑down—showers and a slideshow—so the adventure ends as a social capstone as much as a physical one.
THE ROUTE
Five miles of progressive whitewater
The run starts with Class II stretches that let crews build confidence, then culminates in the single Class III rapid that gives this section its name—Zoar Gap—making it a popular beginner whitewater adventure.
THE EXPERIENCE
Swim breaks, paddling practice, and a communal return
Along the way there are chances to swim or simply relax; crews practice paddling in milder rapids before the big drop, then raft back to camp where hot showers and a slideshow wrap the day.
THE LOGISTICS
Picnic lunch and Charlemont basecamp
Trips meet at the operator’s base in Charlemont and include a picnic‑style lunch; on some non‑guaranteed trips food is served after the run during the post‑trip slideshow.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Expect everything you bring on the raft to get wet. In warm weather many guests wear bathing suits with light layers; in cool weather use wool or synthetic materials. Do not wear cotton. Required footwear is secure sneakers or similar—no flip‑flops or Crocs. Bring necessary medications (EpiPen, inhaler, diabetic meds) and extra money for souvenirs or snacks. Leave valuables and dry clothes in your locked vehicle; keep car keys to deposit at registration.
Wetsuits are included up to the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend (4/15 to 5/22). Rentals (wetsuits, splash jackets, river booties) are available on other dates.
The trip includes a picnic‑style lunch with wraps and cookies. On non‑guaranteed trips food is sometimes served after the run while guests enjoy the post‑trip slideshow.
All Zoar Gap trips meet at the operator’s base at 7 Main St., Charlemont, MA 01339.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What are the age requirements?
Participants must be at least 7 years old and must sign a waiver (minors require a guardian’s signature).
Where and when do we meet?
Trips meet at Zoar Outdoor’s base at 7 Main St., Charlemont, MA 01339. Read your confirmation letter for exact check‑in times and additional trip details.
Are wetsuits provided?
Wetsuits are included up to the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend (4/15 to 5/22). Rentals are available on all other dates.
Is lunch included?
Yes—trips include a picnic‑style lunch with wraps and cookies; on some non‑guaranteed trips food is served after the trip during the post‑trip slideshow.
How much does the trip cost?
Peak season (June 20–September 7) rates are $118 per person on weekends and $102 on weekdays. Early/late season (April 1–June 19 and September 8–October 11) rates are $88 per person on weekends and $78 on weekdays.
Are there group booking perks?
One person rides free for every 12 guests booked when booking by phone; call the office to apply this to your reservation.