Looking for a rush this summer? Join up with Moxie Outdoor Adventures for a whitewater rafting excursion along the Deerfield River in the Berkshires, located in Western Massachusetts.
The name of the company says it all! “It’s an old-timey term, like, ‘That guy’s got moxie!’,” says guide Jack Scott, referencing the word’s definition. “To face difficulty with spirit, nerve and guts!” And, that’s what this trip is all about!
After meeting at the Berkshire East Ski Resort in Charlemont, visitors get outfitted with snug life vests and helmets before boarding a bus to the launch point.
Thorough instruction is followed by the orange rafts being placed into the crystal clear water. Right off, adventurers are treated to the first rapid, called Morning Coffee.
“It tends to wake you up,” laughs Scott, explaining that it’s a result of Hurricane Irene.
“It created what I like to consider a miraculous surf!” With water pouring into the raft, intense paddling and lots of excitement, it’s a great way to start the trip! But, the calm water provides unique sightseeing opportunities at a historic location, surrounded by lush greenery. “This section is a beautiful way to explore the way people think of the Berkshires,” says Scott.
“You get to see wildlife, birds darting around the boat, occasionally a deer.” Fourteen year old Rose Fischer, of Rockaway, Queens, agrees: “There’s a lot of scenery. I really liked when the guides were talking about the history of the river.”
The highlight of the 5-hour, 10-mile excursion is the trip through the Zoar Gap, 45-seconds of pure adrenaline along the rapids. “You’re going over the rocks and dropping, that was great! Fun!” says fourteen year old Chase Kaltner.
“It was crazy, Man, some crazy stuff going down!” Scott believes rafting inspires self-confidence and team bonding: “It brings families together.
After you’ve done the white water rafting trip, come bombing through the intense gap, you feel like you accomplished something.”
Check out this DayTrippers video to experience the fun and exhilarating Deerfield River Zoar Gap adventure.