Challenging Class III-IV rapids, such as The Dumplings and Corkscrew, combine with beautiful Green Mountains' scenery to make this West River section between Ball Mountain Dam and Townshend Reservoir, Vermont's outstanding whitewater run. As the river winds its way the through the granite Jamaica gorge, past forests and picturesque farmlands, it flows alongside the quaint villages of Jamaica and Townshend. This exciting section has often been the site of regional and national whitewater kayaking championships.
     Rafting on the West River is made possible by special water releases from the Ball Mountain Dam near Jamaica, currently limited to just two weekends a year—one in the spring and one in the fall. One of the more memorable ways to enjoy New England fall colors is to take advantage of rafting at the time of the early October water release, which is scheduled to coincide with peak foliage.