Frequently Asked Questions

Summer Rentals

  • What is included in the kayak rental? Rentals cover essential items like kayaks, paddles, and PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) with safety whistles. Pick-up at our location includes use of our universal roof rack pads or truck bed extender for no extra charge.
  • How much does it cost to rent a kayak or paddle board?
    • Quick Paddle (2 hours): $30 for single kayaks/SUPs, $40 for tandem, $35 for fishing kayaks/SUPs
    • Half-Day (4 hours): $40 for single kayaks/SUPs, $50 for tandem, $45 for fishing kayaks/SUPs
    • Full-Day (8 hours): $60 for single kayaks/SUPs, $70 for tandem, $65 for fishing kayaks/SUPs
    • Multi-Day: Rates applied per day after initial full-day rate. $40/day for single kayaks/SUPs; $50/day for tandem; $45/day for fishing kayaks/SUPs
    • Delivery Fees: $25
    • Security Deposit: $100 per watercraft. Our refundable security deposits ensure all gear remains top-quality for every adventurer. They're held temporarily on your card and released promptly after inspection, covering any unexpected damage or loss to keep costs fair for everyone
  • What are the rental periods available?
    • Quick Paddle: 2 hours. For example: 9AM-11AM, 3PM-5PM, etc. 7 time slots available per day
    • Half-Day: 4 hours. 9 AM, 10AM, 11AM, 12PM, and 1PM. 5 time slots available per day
    • Full-Day: 8 hours 9AM-5PM
    • Multi-Day: 2+ days. Pick-up and drop-off times adjustable
  • To complete your reservation, you must:
    • Sign and submit the Rental Contract & Release of Liability
      • For groups: Place separate orders per person, or enter info during booking on adults and minors that will be participating for E-sign links to be sent to each person.
      • Every participant must sign before equipment release.
    • Process payment, which includes security deposit authorization hold.

Delivery and Pick-Up Logistics

  • Do you offer both delivery and pick-up services? Yes
  • Where do you deliver the kayaks? To 13 ponds and lakes around Oxford County, as chosen during checkout after selecting delivery option. Click here for map of locations
  • What are the delivery and pick-up times? Deliveries: 9AM-3 PM drop off, 11AM-5 PM retrieval; Pick-ups: 9AM-5 PM. All depend on rental period chosen.
  • Is there an additional fee for delivery? Yes, $25.
  • How do I schedule the delivery or pick-up? Through the online booking link on our website, selecting your preferred watercraft, duration, lifejacket size, date and time slots, and selecting the delivery or pick-up options in the checkout. Be sure to double check your location selections in the checkout page before payment!
  • Do I need to be present for delivery and pick-up? Yes, unless otherwise stated or agreed to beforehand.

Safety and Eligibility Concerns

  • Do I need prior kayaking experience? No, our kayaks are beginner-friendly with stable designs. Basic safety instructions are provided digitally, with optional verbal briefings and a safety/info pamphlet.
  • Are there age restrictions for renting or using the kayaks? Renters must be 18+. Children can paddle with adult supervision; under 8 should ride tandem with an adult. Maine boating laws require children 12 and under to wear lifejackets at all times. See Maine boating laws for details here.
  • What should I wear or bring for the kayaking trip? Wear water-friendly clothing, water shoes, sunscreen, hat; bring water, snacks, and weather-appropriate gear. All of these items can be browsed in our online store or in person to add to your rental. Items will be ready during pick-up or delivered to your location with your rented equipment.
  • What safety measures are in place, and do you provide safety equipment? We provide US Coast Guard-approved life jackets with safety whistles (sanitized after every use), mandatory for all, which are sanitized thoroughly after every rental turn-in. A digital waiver and instructions are included, with optional verbal briefings to make sure you feel safe and ready.

Policy-Related Questions

What is your cancellation policy, especially in case of bad weather? Cancellations 48 hours in advance receive a full refund. 50% within 24-48 hours; no same-day refund. For unsafe weather, we offer rescheduling or refunds.

Can I extend the rental period if needed? Yes, subject to availability. Contact us to arrange and pay for additional days.

What happens if the kayak is damaged during the rental period? The $100 security deposit covers minor damages. Significant damage may incur repair costs per the rental agreement. We inspect equipment with you upon return/retrieval to discuss any issues transparently. Our refundable security deposits ensure all gear remains top-quality for every adventurer. They're held temporarily on your card and released promptly after inspection, covering any unexpected damage or loss to keep costs fair for everyone.

Winter Rentals

We've expanded this section to cover the most common questions based on industry standards for snowshoe rentals, including beginner tips, gear details, and policies. If your question isn't here, reach out!

  • When can I rent snowshoes? Rentals are available starting ~ mid November, but we only release gear when snow depth is at least 4-6 inches for safe use (typically late November in Oxford County). Check local forecasts or call us for updates.
  • How do I choose the right size snowshoes? Size is based on your total weight (with clothes/gear) and boot size.
    • For adults up to 180lbs, smaller models like MSR Evo Trail (extendable to 250lbs with tails for $5); up to 250lbs for larger like Komperdell Trail Pro, or the Tubbs Frontier.
    • Kids: 40-120lbs options available. We'll confirm and adjust at pickup for the best fit. If unsure, text or email your details for advice.
  • What is included in the rental? Base rentals include the snowshoes only. Bundles add poles (+$5) and/or 6" tails (+$5) for deep snow. We also offer an optional reusable whistle (cleaned after each use) and basic instructions and safety information. No boots are included. Wear waterproof hiking boots or winter boots with good traction.
  • Can I pick up my rentals the night before? Yes, for early starts and moonlight snowshoeing! Pick up at or after 4 PM the day before your rental.
  • What should I wear or bring for snowshoeing? Dress in layers: Moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, waterproof jacket/pants. Wear waterproof boots (no sneakers), wool socks, gloves, hat, and sunglasses/goggles for glare. Bring water, snacks, a backpack, sunscreen (even in winter), and a phone/GPS app like AllTrails. For frozen lakes, check ice thickness (4+ inches minimum) via Maine DIFW resources.
  • Do I need any experience or fitness level to snowshoe? No prior experience needed. Snowshoeing is beginner-friendly and like walking with better traction. A moderate fitness level helps for longer trails (e.g., 2-3 miles), but our easy local spots are great for all ages. If you have health concerns, consult a doctor; we recommend starting short and building up.
  • How do I use snowshoes properly? Strap them securely over your boots (we'll demo at pickup). Walk with a wider stance to avoid stepping on frames. Use poles for balance on hills. For climbing: Lean forward and use crampons. Descending: Bend knees and heel-plant. Traversing: Side-step. Practice on flat ground first. It's intuitive after a few minutes!
  • What if there's no snow or bad weather? We monitor conditions; full refund if snow is under 4 inches or unsafe (e.g., high winds, extreme cold). For cancellations, notify us 24 hours in advance for a full refund otherwise. We don't rent in rain or thaw to protect gear.
  • Can I combine snowshoe rentals with other services? Absolutely! Bundle with ice fishing gear (e.g., augers/tip-ups for a pond adventure) or bait/tackle. Email for custom packages. Great for family outings tying into our year-round offerings.
  • Are the snowshoes suitable for kids or groups? Yes, we have kid-specific models (ages 6-12) at lower rates, with easy bindings. For groups (3+), use GROUPTREK10 for 10% off. All gear is family-friendly; involve kids in short, fun trails like Greenwood Ice Caves.
  • What about maintenance or damage? We inspect and repair gear after each use. If damage occurs due to misuse, your deposit covers it; normal wear is on us. Report issues at return for quick resolution. Our refundable security deposits ensure all gear, like our insulated Eskimo tents and electric augers, remains top-quality for every adventurer. They're held temporarily on your card and released promptly after inspection, covering any unexpected damage or loss to keep costs fair for everyone.
  • Do you offer guided tours or lessons? Not yet, but we provide trail maps, safety tips, and basic instructions. For beginners, start with our recommended easy trails. We're exploring guided options for future seasons, so stay tuned!
  • How many people can rent at once? We have up to 12 pairs total currently (including kids'), plus poles and tails (tails fit MSR EVO trail models only). For larger groups, book early or contact us. We can stagger pickups.
  • Is snowshoeing pet-friendly? Many trails allow leashed pets (e.g., Hawk Mountain), but check specifics. We don't rent pet gear, so ensure your dog can handle snow. Booties recommended for paws.
  • Why rent instead of buy? Renting is cost-effective for trying before buying, especially seasonally. Our high-end gear (better than basic rentals elsewhere) lets you test models without commitment.
  • Maintenance tips? Shake off snow; charge auger fully; we'll handle deep cleans.