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Why Learn to Paddle at Zoar Outdoor?

At Zoar Outdoor Kayak & Canoe Clinics, based in Charlemont, MA, we create great paddling experiences for adults, kids ,and families that emphasize the joy of kayaking or canoeing as a lifetime pursuit. Through river games and an activity-based approach, we make learning kayaking or canoeing fun, and we stress success in all aspects of our program by following a gradual skills progression that lets you set the pace.

There are lots of ways to enjoy our wonderful New England rivers—from taking in the scenery with family and friends while kayaking or canoeing on a mild Class II run to catching eddies and surfing waves on a fun Class III rapid to cartwheeling on a swirly eddy line to the focused intensity of steep, technical creeks.

Our goal is to produce self-sufficient kayakers and canoeists who will be longterm members of the paddling community. To accomplish this, our Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Strokes and Technical Skills start you off with a set of essential kayaking and canoeing skills that form a solid platform from which you can go in any direction in paddling with confidence. From there, we offer more specialized classes in kayak rollingriver runningfreestyle kayaking and river rescue to help you learn the specific skills to excel at any aspect of the sport.

team zoar on water
team zoar kat

The key to our success is our committed staff of paddling professionals and instructors who work and play at Zoar Outdoor because they love it and are passionate about making paddling accessible to all. Whether you’re out to view the scenery, spend time with family or friends, or hone your playboating skills, we’re here to help you power your own adventure!

Our facilities are first rate. Zoar Outdoor is based in a 1750’s colonial house on 80 acres on the west end of the small river town of Charlemont, Massachusetts. The Deerfield River is just 100 yards away and our private riverfront access means many days end right at our base with hot showers and comfortable camping or lodging accommodations. Our kitchen prepares trip lunches that include sliced meats and cheeses, homemade rolls, seasonal soups and breads, chips, and Joel’s famous homemade salsa.

At the end of a day on the water, we have succeeded if we have given you an adventure you’ll never forget and started you on your way to becoming a part of the global paddling community.

Find your kayaking or canoeing class or adventure at Zoar Outdoor!

team zoar kat