Skip to main content

Family Float Rafting

Book This Adventure

Our half-day guided Float Trip is the perfect introduction to rafting for folks who want to dip a toe in the water before taking on our Zoar Gap trip or for groups with children as young as 5 years old.

Our Family Float trip showcases the beauty of the Deerfield River as it meanders through farmland and the rolling Berkshire foothills along the historic Mohawk Trail. Our professional river guides provide insight into the natural and cultural history of the area with opportunities to swim and splash in the waters of the Deerfield.  This trip provides a wonderful afternoon adventure for families, scout and camp groups.

AGE

5+

DURATION

Under 4 Hours

SEASON

May - September

LOCATION

7 Main Street, Charlemont MA

INTENSITY

Mild

Typical Day

We raft five miles of class I-II rapids on the Fife Brook section of the Deerfield River. The entire trip, including registration, transportation, snack, and swim stops, takes approximately 3-3.5 hours, depending on conditions and group size.

Please be on time, since we must work within the schedule of water releases decided on by the power company. You will be required to read and sign a release of liability at this time.

All guests will be required to wear a Zoar Outdoor issued PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and helmet. You will also be provided with a paddle.

Looking to do multiple activities during your visit? Try one of our single day  Adventure Packages, or call the office to custom build your own multi-day experience.

What to Bring

Expect everything you bring on the raft to get wet!

Best options for clothing:

  • Bathing suit and/or shorts in the warmer weather, long pants and sweater made of wool, nylon, fleece, or polypropylene in the colder weather.
  • Sneakers or other shoes that can get wet and can remain securely on your feet during a whitewater swim.  (Bare feet and flip-flops are not allowed)
  • Avoid cotton clothing such as blue jeans, sweatshirts, or t-shirts as cotton keeps you cold when it gets wet and are not appropriate for this activity.
  • We provide all the in-raft equipment!

A few more details:

  • Wetsuits, splash jackets, and neoprene river booties are available for rental if you need them. Call our office or inquire when you arrive, and we’ll get you set-up!
  • Bring any required medications as well as extra money for souvenirs or any other goodies.
  • Before the trip, please leave any and all valuables including money as well as your dry clothes and towels for after the trip in your locked vehicle. Keep your car keys with you during registration; we’ll collect those and put them in a lock box before gearing up, and then return them to you when you get back to Zoar.

Pre-Trip Requirements

Adventurers on the Float Trip must be 5 years old or older.

For all of our whitewater trips, guests must be able/willing to do the following:

  • Wear a helmet and our personal flotation device (PFD)
  • Respond to and follow verbal or visual instruction
  • Roll from front to back in water while wearing a PFD
  • Demonstrate dynamic sitting position (sitting upright), and float with feet up in water.
  • Be able to walk on rocky, uneven ground and descend staircases with no railings.

Specifically, for our Family Float Trip, guests:

  • May choose not to paddle. Their paddling is not required.
  • Should be able to remain calm, lay flat, and orient their body so their feet are aiming downstream if they find themselves unexpectedly in the water.

Our PFDs fit a maximum chest size of 56 inches.

Remember to read your confirmation letter (there is a lot of useful information in there!).

Call our office if you have any additional questions: 413-339-4010. They’re always happy to help!

DIRECTIONS
WAIVERS
FAQ's
Book This Adventure