River old

The Battenkill

The Battenkill is a natural flow river which meanders out of the Manchester, VT area headwaters,  and converges with the Hudson River in Greenwich, NY. From shallow shoals to deep holes, cutting through the green hills of VT as well as the farming fields of New York, this resource offers challenges, as well as a relaxing float. The journey is never the same twice. Affected most directly by the rain, or lack of, this river offers a variety of experiences. Teeming with wildlife one often sees trout, deer, mink, songbirds, heron, eagles and osprey.

Battenkill Valley Outdoors offers options to see and experience the river. We cater to all ages and abilities, within reason for this activity. Our rental equipment is from very reputable companies, and we strive to keep it in good order. 

USGS Map developed for Battenkill Conservancy

What to expect at BVO

Customized Trips

At Battenkill Valley Outdoors, we customize each trip to fit your needs. You tell us how long you want to float, and based on the river conditions, we map out a nice journey, put you in, and pick you up. Take a cell phone along,  (in a dry box we lend you) and call us at the end. So, go as fast or slow as you wish Less time waiting around for all of us!

2021 we are offering 2 trips a day, 8 people to a van

Trips head out at 9:30 and 11:30 - this allows travel time and an easy river pace

Reservations

Reservations are essential - we will not take walk in business this year. A credit card can hold equipment so it is there when you come. Pay as you wish at the counter. This card is not run unless you do not show. A 24 hour notice is required for cancellation. If inclement weather, high water, or other factors cause BVO to cancel the trip, you will not be charged

Instruction

We offer custom instruction for anyone looking
to learn how to control their boat.
Beginning canoe or kayak instruction
Learn to control a boat in flat & moving water,
safety, strokes, and wet exits.

River Stewardship

  • Be respectful of other river users
  • Float quietly behind fishermen
  • Respect private landowners and privately owned riverbanks
  • Leave no trace-carry in-carry out all trash

Out of respect for the fishermen, it was established years ago,
that the outfitters would keep hours of 9-6
This allows the early AM and later PM hours for the anglers to enjoy this resource as well.

Join us in a river cleanup we host with the Battenkill Conservancy.
There is no charge for canoe when pitching in for this valuable work.
Sign up for the next notification.

Tips? What’s the etiquette?

Kayaks can tip- so canoe

This is a sign we post in the shop. It is a fun, whimsical way to say- yes, our staff delivers, and rewards for this service, are always, most appreciated!

Rental Rates

We do not time the trips, all rates apply to any length trip from 1 hour to all day. First launch is approximately 9:30 (after paperwork, boat choice, loading etc.) and the second launch is 11:30. All floaters need to be off the water by 4:00 PM. Please try to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your launch time to allow for check-in and transportation

Rental Tandem Canoe or Kayak

$80. /Boat

Includes all taxes, pfd, paddles, drybag or box, shuttle to and from the river

Canoe for 2
Center seat add $20.00
Tandem hard shell kayak
Tandem inflatable kayak

Rental Solo Kayak

55.00 /Boat

Includes all taxes, pfd, paddle, drybag or box, shuttle to and from the river

Solo Kayak with varieties to pick from
Solo inflatable kayak

Rental 9 Ft Commercial Raft

$40.00 (min $80.00) /each adult, kids under 12 go free

Includes all taxes, pfd, paddles, drybag or box, shuttle to and from the river

Great for families with young ages
Great for 4 close friends
Great for higher water conditions
Great option for groups

Rent an awesome Tube (most) w/bottoms

$30 /Tube

Includes all taxes, pfd, drybag or box, shuttle to and from the river

Quality tubes with bottoms
Cooler tube (optional / extra fee)

The Shuttle

Bringing friends, and you have your own boat?
Great!
Bring it along, and we will fill in the necessary fleet. Allowing us to keep you altogether with the shuttle, allows you to bring less cars to the area, socialize on the ride in, and at the end of your journey, less fuss on collecting cars up and down the corridor.

Just need a shuttle?
Great!
We can still customize your journey, find a nice route, and help you get your car to the takeout. Then we will shuttle you up stream to the launch area, and you are on your own schedule to get back to your car.                      

Private Tube Shuttle

$10.00 /Tube

A seat on the van! We'll get you upstream

Private Boat shuttle

$20.00 /Boat

Allow us to help you taxi your car to the take out- we will launch you up stream

River shuttle logistics can be a nightmare!
Simplify it with us!
You travel to the area with 1 car
We work with you on where you want to be, how long to be out
We help you get your car to the take out
We launch you upstream
At the end of the trip- you have your car, relaxed from a nice day on the river- you go home! -no chasing your car, someone stays behind with the gear, ride your bike....
All is good- keep the river mojo!