About Us
Where does the name Umiak come from?
Umiak (o͞omēˌak)
Noun
The umiak is a traditional Inuit boat used for transporting goods and people, made from a driftwood or whalebone frame covered in animal skins. Primarily rowed by women, it served as an essential vessel for summer transport, distinguishing it from the kayak, which men typically used for fishing and hunting.
History
Umiak Outdoor Outfitters was founded in 1991 by a group of friends who shared a deep passion for the outdoors and a vision to create a hub for adventurers in their community. Starting from a small storefront in downtown Stowe, they aimed to provide high-quality outdoor retail and rental gear that would enable individuals and families to explore the natural beauty around them. Over the years, Umiak has evolved into a trusted destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a carefully curated selection of equipment and apparel for various activities like hiking, paddling, snowshoeing, and backcountry skiing.
Current Day
At Umiak Outdoor Outfitters, we take pride in being Vermont's premier destination for outdoor adventures, providing a full array of services to meet all your outdoor needs. Our main outfitter shop is conveniently located in the lower village of Stowe, Vermont, serving as your comprehensive resource for retail sales, safety training, guided tours, rentals, and personalized programs to elevate your outdoor experience. With additional seasonal locations across Vermont, our dedicated team comprises some of New England's most knowledgeable outdoor enthusiasts, all passionate about helping you uncover the beauty and thrill of Vermont's landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just starting out, Umiak Outdoor Outfitters is committed to making your escapades memorable, safe, and exciting. Come join us and discover the adventures that await you!
Summer
Umiak Outdoor Outfitters is a destination for all paddling enthusiasts. Our retail stores stock over 100 models of kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards from the world's top manufacturers. We offer comprehensive boating services with the help of our knowledgeable retail staff. With our online catalog, you can easily browse our vast inventory anytime. We have both new and used boats, suitable for recreational or performance use, catering to everyone's needs. Discover the best way to equip yourself for a lifetime of paddling by visiting us today. Enjoy a test paddle at our Stowe Store, or schedule a demo appointment in Richmond. At Umiak, every day is an opportunity to test our products and ensure they meet your needs. Every day is demo day at Umiak.
Experience the joys of paddling or tubing without the hassle of transportation! Visit our outpost at Waterbury Center State Park and choose from our selection of canoes, kayaks, standup paddleboards, and tubes for rent, or take on the Lamoille and Winooski Rivers with our river trips. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore Vermont's waters in the most convenient way possible.
Winter
Umiak Outdoor Outfitters is the go-to source for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. We offer everything needed to tackle the trails, from top-of-the-line equipment to expert advice, and knowledge of the best routes and conditions. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, our expert staff will assist in making the most of your time in the majestic Stowe backcountry.
Vermont's winter wonderland offers endless adventures for outdoor enthusiasts. Umiak Outdoor Outfitters offers winter rentals and tours for those looking to explore. With an extensive selection of rental equipment, including snowshoes, cross-country skis, alpine touring skis, sleds, snow tubes, and ice skates, Umiak has everything you need for a winter adventure. Alternatively, our knowledgeable guides will accompany you and ensure that you have the best experience possible. Strap on some snowshoes or skis to explore the backcountry and take in breathtaking views or try tubing down the hills or dog sledding through the snowy terrain.
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