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Paddling Committee

The Paddling Committee organizes quietwater and whitewater canoeing and kayaking trips. We love to get people on the water, and can provide instruction for new paddlers. We are blessed to have a variety of places to paddle in our region from quiet ponds to larger lakes, mellow rivers and whitewater rivers. The Connecticut River offers long and short paddle trips and even water-accessible campsites.
Please read the AMC Trip Policy (PDF) before joining a trip.

Whitewater Paddling

Whitewater paddling means canoeing and kayaking on moving water with rocks, waves, and other features. We paddle local rivers such as the Deerfield which is dam controlled and allows for whitewater paddling April through October. We are happy to have new paddlers join us on some of our easier trips. Whitewater training is available through local whitewater schools such as Zoar Outdoor or through the AMC's whitewater training programs lead by other AMC chapters. We sometimes sponsor a day-long whitewater kayak clinic with Zoar Outdoor – check the trip schedule for this and other whitewater events.

Quietwater Paddling

"Quietwater" paddling means scenic canoeing or kayaking on lakes, ponds, and gentle rivers. Western Massachusetts has some splendid rivers and lakes for quietwater paddling. We'll take you there, and we can even help provide you with a boat and gear. We teach the basics of boating safety and effective paddling at our annual instructional program. Our quietwater trips are listed in the trip schedule. Sign up for the quietwater discussion list. For questions or information email us.

River Stewardship

We educate paddlers on water quality and identification of invasive species. In conjunction with AMC's Conservation Committee, we organize river stewardship events to remove invasive water chestnut plants from local rivers.

Our Partners

All Out Adventures
Holyoke Rows

Upcoming Activities

Click or tap on the Register links to learn more and/or register for activities.

East Branch of the Westfield River (Porkbarrel Section)

Location: Cummington, MA
Date: 12‑Apr‑2026
Register »
Join the Western MA chapter on this whitewater trip of the mostly roadless East Branch of the Westfield River, commonly referred to as the Porkbarrel Section. During the snowmelt and wet weather, there are several waterfalls that pour into the river, adding to the allure.
If the water cfs is at a medium or lower level then the section is considered 2 plus in difficulty. At water levels higher than medium, the river is considered 3 minus in difficulty. Drysuits, dry tops, or wet suits are required along with the customary whitewater gear. Steady rain cancels the trip.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 Westfield River Class 1 Paddle

Location: Westfield, MA
Date: 24‑May‑2026
Register »
For this leg of the AMC 150 Relay, join Deb and Dawne for a 5 or 12 mile paddle trip down the Westfield River from Russell to Westfield or West Springfield, MA. Our leg will link a celebration at AMC;s Noble View Outdoor Center the day before with a leg of the New England Trail the day after. We start with a car spot, then paddle through swiftwater currents with occasional river obstacles that require maneuvering - exact conditions will depend on river flow. The 5-mile leg ends at Whitney Field in Westfield, with 12 mile paddlers portaging around the Westfield dam (wheeled portage possible), and ending with a 200-yard portage at the Robinson State Park take-out in West Springfield. Safety boaters with whitewater experience are encouraged to join.
This trip is for those with at least class 1 whitewater experience who are able to portage their boat with a helper several hundred yards down a switchback trail at the put-in.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 Connecticut River Paddle, Hatfield to Northampton, MA

Location: Hatfield, MA
Date: 27‑May‑2026
Register »
Join the Western MA Chapter and All Out Adventures for a 12-mile flatwater paddle on the Connecticut River from Hatfield downriver to the Oxbow in Northampton, with a shorter 6-mile option available. This scenic flatwater paddle is rated moderate because of the distance, though we will have some current to help us along. Expect to see bald eagles, geese, ducks, herons, and maybe beaver or otters. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are welcome.
To provide an opportunity for folks of differing abilities to join this leg of the AMC 150 Relay, Western MA Chapter Paddling is partnering with All Out Adventures (AOA) who will be providing adaptive equipment and support to folks with accessibility needs. Please register with AOA (http://alloutadventures.org) to utilize their services and equipment.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Location: Fife Brook, MA
Date: 29‑May‑2026
Register »
Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!
When and where: May 29, June 26, July 24, August 21, and Sept. 11 (you don't need to attend all — come to whatever ones you can).
Late afternoon meet up time (contact trip leader for exact timing). Plan to arrive early if you are borrowing gear. Location TBD. Run the river from 5:30 to 7:30 or 8:00 PM (dam release and weather could affect timing and location).
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[LGBTQ+] Pride Day on the River Dryway Run

Location: Monroe, MA
Date: 14‑Jun‑2026
Register »
Join LGBTQ+ people and enjoy the Dryway section (class 3-4) of the Deerfield River in northwest Massachusetts. This is not a step up trip. Please have a solid roll in moving water, successful experiences on New England class 4 rivers and/or the Dryway. Contact the trip leader to discuss if you're unsure. Bring your own gear.
We will put on shortly after the dam starts releasing and do a slow, leisurely lap. Contact trip leader for exact timing. Afterward, BYO picnic at the Dunbar Picnic Area.
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Location: Fife Brook, MA
Date: 26‑Jun‑2026
Register »
Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!
When and where: May 29, June 26, July 24, August 21, and Sept. 11 (you don't need to attend all — come to whatever ones you can).
Late afternoon meet up time (contact trip leader for exact timing). Plan to arrive early if you are borrowing gear. Location TBD. Run the river from 5:30 to 7:30 or 8:00 PM (dam release and weather could affect timing and location).
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[LGBTQ+] Intermediate Whitewater Kayaking Weekend

Location: Charlemont, MA
Date: 27‑Jun‑2026
Register »
Join other LGBTQ+ kayakers for this 2-day skills clinic on the Deerfield River in MA to celebrate Pride Month. This clinic is for people who already have experience whitewater kayaking at any level, from beginner through advanced. Refer to the registration page for eligibility criteria and more information.
We will focus on foundational techniques to progress in your whitewater kayaking journey based on your goals. We will work on refining maneuvering skills such as eddy turns, peel outs, ferries, self rescue, and basic surfing. For those interested, we will even start introducing the kayak roll or help people fine tune their rolls. Depending on the group's interests and experiences, we might break into smaller groups to practice skills but will spend time on the river together.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Location: Fife Brook, MA
Date: 24‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!
When and where: May 29, June 26, July 24, August 21, and Sept. 11 (you don't need to attend all — come to whatever ones you can).
Late afternoon meet up time (contact trip leader for exact timing). Plan to arrive early if you are borrowing gear. Location TBD. Run the river from 5:30 to 7:30 or 8:00 PM (dam release and weather could affect timing and location).
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[Women+] Sunset Flat Water Paddle on Littleville Lake

Location: Huntington, MA
Date: 24‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Ply peacefully over the waters that cover the lost villages of Dayville and Littleville. Join us for an Affinity, Women+, Class 1, Flat Water Paddle on Littleville Lake located on the middle branch of the Westfield River in Chester and Huntington MA. With a perimeter of 4.8 miles, this lake was created when the Littleville Dam was constructed for flood control. On this approximately 2-hour paddle along the edge, we will talk history, view wildlife and enjoy the sunset.
This Women+ paddle requires basic paddling experience and the ability to swim. You must bring your own boat (canoe, kayak, paddle board) paddle, and life jacket. Bring drinking water, a snack, layered (non-cotton) clothing to keep you warm/cool and comfortable even if damp, and shoes that can get wet are required. Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses on a lanyard are recommended. It is a good idea to have a complete change of clothes, towel, and shoes in your car in case you are damp at the end of the trip.
Lifejackets must be worn at all times while on the water and participants must stay in a group with the AMC leaders. Swimming is prohibited at Littleville Lake, because it serves as a backup water supply for the city of Springfield, MA.
You will receive an email from the leader once you register asking a few screening questions about your experience and the boat you will bring. Once confirmed, you will be sent more detailed information including the starting time. Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Location: Fife Brook, MA
Date: 21‑Aug‑2026
Register »
Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!
When and where: May 29, June 26, July 24, August 21, and Sept. 11 (you don't need to attend all — come to whatever ones you can).
Late afternoon meet up time (contact trip leader for exact timing). Plan to arrive early if you are borrowing gear. Location TBD. Run the river from 5:30 to 7:30 or 8:00 PM (dam release and weather could affect timing and location).
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Location: Fife Brook, MA
Date: 11‑Sep‑2026
Register »
Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!
When and where: May 29, June 26, July 24, August 21, and Sept. 11 (you don't need to attend all — come to whatever ones you can).
Late afternoon meet up time (contact trip leader for exact timing). Plan to arrive early if you are borrowing gear. Location TBD. Run the river from 5:30 to 7:30 or 8:00 PM (dam release and weather could affect timing and location).
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

Activity Schedule

All activities are subject to cancellation due to poor weather conditions or water levels. Check activities on outdoors.org for up-to-the-minute additions not yet shown here. Not all activities may be posted yet.
Executive 20s/30s A.T. Management Bicycling Communications Community Engagement Conservation Family Programs Hiking Membership Mountaineering Net Management Paddling Training and Education
Kayakers running rapids
  PAULA CHAMPAGNE
Kayak on the beach
  JEANNETTE PIERCE
Woman in a canoe
COMMITTEE HIGHLIGHT

The Women of Paddling

The Western MA Chapter is blessed to have strong female leaders within its volunteer ranks. These women lead and participate in paddling trips all over the world, from Maine's Allagash River to the Connecticut River and north to Canada. Paddling in a group is a bonding experience you'll never forget. To learn more – about joining a paddling trip or becoming a paddling leader – contact the paddling committee. READ MORE »
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