EPIC Adventures 2013 - 2014
(509) 359-4014
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“A lot of the time it is not as much about the route you are on, but about who you climb with.” Sandra on the Traverse des Aiguilles du Diable (Traverse of the Devil’s Needles), Tacul du Mont Blanc, France. -- John Vincent 2
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EPIC Alumnus Interview with Sandra Ewert
What are you up to these days? I live in Chamonix, the capital of alpinism. On my days off I am up high in the mountains as much as possible to play in the alpine world. I still love rock climbing but am concentrating on ice and mixed routes more these days. For a career, I am a freelance trainer and consultant which means I teach seminars for businesses in order to ameliorate soft skills amongst employees or executives. I try to add an element of outdoor activity by using experiential education in the seminars. How did EPIC affect your time at EWU? EPIC made my time at EWU, not only because it left me with an amazing amount of outdoor leadership and outdoor experience, but also because it was a very strong community. I felt at home at EPIC; the staff and fellow trip leaders became my close friends, and I spent my time between classes working or planning the next outdoor adventure there. It was not just EPIC, but the people at EPIC that made my time at university very special. How did EPIC prepare you as a climber? The community at EPIC got me climbing. We would go to the gym together and talk about climbing a lot. After my first summer I took a course to become a climbing instructor for EPIC and with that started to teach climbing courses and lead climbing trips. How did EPIC prepare you for your career? EPIC gave me a chance to play in a safe environment. I learned how to facilitate groups, how to speak in front of groups and how to organize them. I learned a lot about myself as a leader and about what I wanted in life and how I would get there. And, most importantly, I learned how to have fun with the people you work with! Anything else that I didn’t think to ask? I love where I am in life now and wouldn’t want to have missed a single day of my time at EPIC. I am excited to see what the future brings me! Sandra Ewert graduated from EWU in June 2008 with a B.A. Recreation and Leisure and a B.A. Psychology. During her time at Eastern, Sandra was a fixture at EPIC Adventures as a trip leader, front desk employee, and climbing instructor. (509) 359-4014
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Try Something New With another new school year comes another batch of EPIC Adventures waiting for Eastern Washington University students. Along with the stellar programs that students have come to expect from EPIC, this year we are adding more of our popular trips and trying out some new activities and locations. Who doesn’t love dogsledding? Not many people it seems, because we added extra trips last winter to keep up with the demand. In anticipation of a similar level of interest this year, we are offering a couple different dogsledding trips, so find one that fits your schedule. If you’ve tried rafting and are looking for more action, check out riverboarding. Swim the river using fins and a riverboard to really experience what the river is doing. Even small rapids are tons of fun when you’re at face-level. We’ve got clinics and trips, so check ‘em out. Looking for a credit or two to add to your schedule? Check out our series of rock climbing classes. Whether you have never rock climbed before, or are a seasoned veteran, we have a class that will fit your abilities and interests. Pick one trip or go on them all, but stop by today to sign up, because some of these trips fill quickly. 4
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Annual Pass If you are an Eastern student and you are planning to do a lot with EPIC this year, buy an Annual Pass. $200 gets you 600 points that you can use for most EPIC trips, classes, and events. Look for the “AP” in activity descriptions to find out how many Annual Pass points the activity is worth. EPIC Bucks Did you get the early sign-up bonus for student housing? If so, you have “EPIC Bucks” that you can only spend with us. EPIC Bucks are as good as cash, and this free money goes away at the end of the school year, so use it or lose it! (509) 359-4014
About EPIC Adventures As the Eastern Washington University outdoor program, EPIC Adventures offers outdoor and adventure trips, instruction, events, and equipment rentals. With an indoor climbing facility and access to some of the best outdoor activity sites in the country, EPIC Adventures provides activities like camping, hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, mountaineering, ice climbing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, dogsledding, standup paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, riverboarding, river surfing, and other human-powered fun. 5
Fall Quarter 2013
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Fall 2013
Matt starts up a rock climb during a weekend of camping and canoeing at Banks Lake. -- Casey Picha (509) 359-4014
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Weekend Trips
Pack your bags... or rent some from us, because we have the gear to get you away from campus for a weekend of new experiences. Most trips leave on Friday after class and return Sunday evening. These trips are built with beginners in mind, so even if you have exactly zero experience with the activity, you can feel confident signing up anyway. Call us or stop by to reserve your place. Do it now! These trips fill up quickly.
Canoeing & Rock Climbing at Banks Lake
We canoe across Banks Lake, set up camp on a beach and then rock climb right behind our camp. We also occasionally standup paddleboard and tell tales by the fire. This trip is a perennial favorite, so be sure to sign up early if you are interested. Dates: October 11 - 13, 2013 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Whitewater Rafting
Riverboarding
The Alberton Gorge of the Clark Fork River in Montana is a beautiful and exciting place to whitewater raft. This Montana river features stretches of calm water and wildlife spotting interrupted by Class II and III whitewater. Join EPIC as we run the gorge during the day and camp near Fish Creek at night.
Immerse yourself in the Clark Fork with this new EPIC Adventures trip. We’ll put on wetsuits, life jackets, helmets, and fins and swim the river using riverboards (think big, beefy boogieboards with handles). Some training and a swim test is required and will be provided prior to the trip. Interested in a unique adventure? Sign up.
Dates: September 28 - 29, 2013 Saturday morning - Sunday evening Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Dates: October 12 - 13, 2013 Saturday morning - Sunday evening Student Price: $125 (AP125) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Rock Climbing
Mountaineering
on the Clark Fork River
at Trail Lake Coulee
Great rock climbing with no crowds, the climbing at Trail Lake Coulee is a hidden gem of Central Washington. We camp at a nearby campground and spend days climbing the local basalt. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced climbs are available. Dates: October 5 - 6, 2013 Saturday morning - Sunday evening Student Price: $75 (AP75) Includes: food, transportation, equipment 8
on the Clark Fork River
to Mount Saint Helens
Climb this iconic peak with EPIC Adventures. Though this trip is beginner-friendly, a moderate level of physical fitness is required because there is a lot of hiking... uphill. If conditions are right, we’ll go for the summit, giving you a chance to stand on top of a big peak before winter sets in. Dates: October 18 - 20, 2013 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment ewu.edu/epic
Whitewater Rafting
Hot Springs Backpacking
This trip down the Deschutes River is the only expedition-style rafting trip we offer in the fall. Expedition-style means that we pack all of our gear on the rafts and head downriver. During the day, we float the river and run rapids, and at night we pull over, unpack, and camp on shore.
Late Fall hotspringing is the best. Soaking in hot water surrounded by a cold autumn forest is an idyllic way to spend a weekend. A short hike or snowshoe trek into camp puts us near the hotsprings where we will spend our days soaking and our nights snuggled in warm sleeping bags.
Dates: October 18 - 20, 2013 Friday after class - Sunday evening Student Price: $150 (AP150) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Dates: November 1 - 3, 2013 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $75 (AP75) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
on the Deschutes River
Backpacking & Fishing
at Martin Lakes
We are going to backpack in to some lakes and set up camp. Then we will spend our days reeling in some beauts in a gorgeous alpine lake setting with a choice of three lakes to fish. Fishing license and fishing equipment are not provided, but we’ve got you covered with the backpacking gear. Chase some trout with us! Dates: October 25 - 27, 2013 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Mountain Biking
in the Methow Valley
Near Twisp, in the Methow Valley in the middle of Washington State is a mountain biking paradise. We’re going there, and you should come with us. We’ll explore Cutthroat Lake and Bear Mountain trails and camp at a place called Loop Loop. The crisp fall temps might just be the icing on the cake. Dates: October 26 - 27, 2013 Saturday morning - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $75 (AP75) Includes: food, transportation, equipment (509) 359-4014
to Goldmyer Hot Springs
Day Trips Here’s a short list of Fall-quarter day trips. You’ll notice that the daytrips during the first week of school are FREE! At the bottom of the list are activities in the PHASE Pool that happen year-round. Stay tuned on our Facebook page or stop by the Rec Center to find out about day trips as we add more throughout the year. Standup Paddleboard 09/23; 1pm Free Rock Climbing 09/24; 10, 12 & 2 Free Mountain Biking 09/25; 1pm Free River Surfing Clinic 09/26; 1pm Free Canoeing 09/27; noon Free River Surfing Clinic 10/02; TBD $5 Dayhike 10/03; 1pm $5 Riverboarding 10/09; TBD $10 Dayhike 10/10; 1pm $5 River Surfing Clinic 10/16; TBD $5 Dayhike 10/17; 1pm $5 Dayhike 10/23; 1pm $5 Dayhike 10/24; 1pm $5 Dayhike 10/31; 1pm $5 Dayhike 11/07; 1pm $5 Dayhike 11/14; 1pm $5 Dayhike 11/21; 1pm $5 Open Pool: Try kayaking or standup paddleboarding in a warm pool. Wednesdays 7 - 9 p.m. Pool Activity: Slacklining over the pool, kayak basketball, and battleship are some of the activites offered. Mondays 7 - 9 p.m. 9
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Winter Quarter 2014
Taking a break from winter classes for some dogsledding in Montana. (509) 359-4014
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Weekend Skiing and Snowboarding Trips at Red Mountain, BC, Canada*
at Mission Ridge, Washington
“‘Best Authentic and Funky Resort Experience’ ... RED Mountain Resort is the hidden jewel of BC’s Kootenay Rockies Powder Highway region.” Dates: Trip 1 January 10 - 12, 2014 Trip 2 January 31 - February 2, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $175 (AP175) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
“Light powder. Tons of sun. Amazing views. Terrain that fits everyone in the family. That’s us.” Dates: January 31 - February 2, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $150 (AP150) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
at Whistler, BC, Canada*
“With its legendary deep powder and endless terrain, Whitewater Ski Resort is attracting attention from around the world from those searching for an epic BC winter ski vacation.” Dates: February 7 - 9, 2014 Friday after class - Monday afternoon Student Price: $175 (AP175) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
“Consistently ranked as North America’s top ski and snowboard resort, Whistler...[has] over 8000 acres of skiable terrain, rising a mile above the valley of Whistler.” Dates: January 17 - 20, 2014 Friday after class - Monday afternoon Student Price: $400 (AP400) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
at Schweitzer, Idaho “Like having your own private mountain... It’s no wonder Ski Magazine voted Schweitzer ‘The Best Kept Secret in North America’.” Dates: Trip 1 January 18 - 20, 2014 Trip 2 February 15 - 17, 2014 Student Price: $175 (AP175) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
at Mount Hood, Oregon “Mt. Hood Meadows offers the most spectacular and varied terrain in the Northwest. We have a huge mountain with terrain for everyone.” Dates: January 24 - 26, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $199 (AP199) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
at Silver Mountain, Idaho “We offer you two mountains, 73 trails, 1,600 acres of terrain, 2,200 vertical and more than 300 inches of snow annually.” Dates: January 25 - 26, 2014 Saturday morning - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $125 (AP125) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets 12
at Whitewater, BC, Canada*
at Revelstoke, BC, Canada* “Revelstoke boasts the most vertical in North America of lift-accessed terrain, 3,121 acres of fall line skiing, high alpine bowls, 15 areas of gladed terrain and phenomenal groomed terrain.” Dates: February 14 - 17, 2014 Friday after class - Monday afternoon/evening Student Price: $299 (AP299) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
at Stevens Pass, Washington “One of the Northwest’s premier resorts offering 10 lifts, over 1,125 acres of skiable terrain, 37 primary runs, and at the heart—an intimate base village” Dates: February 21 - 23, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $175 (AP175) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
at Whitefish, Montana “They don’t call it Big Mountain for nothing, you know. We’ve got over 3,000 acres of terrain, and most of it is accessible with a single 7-1/2 minute lift ride. Lift lines? What are those?” Dates: February 28 - March 2, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $175 (AP175) Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets ewu.edu/epic
Other Winter Weekend Trips Ice Climbing
Hot Springs Snowshoeing
Hyalite Canyon is one of the premier ice climbing destinations in the United States. Our local guides will show us the goods with climbs for everyone to enjoy (even if you are a “neverhave” we’ll find a climb to change your status). Located near Bozeman, Montana, this trip is bound to be excellent! Dates: January 17 - 20, 2014 Friday after class - Monday afternoon Student Price: $175 (AP175) Includes: transportation, equipment, lodging
Just like our Fall Quarter trip, but with a bunch of snow on the ground. If you haven’t gone hot-springing in the snow, you are missing out. Sign up for this relaxing winter weekend. We’ll snowshoe in and camp near the springs. If you get cold, simply immerse yourself in hot water until you’re warm. Repeat as often as necessary.
in Hyalite Canyon
Dogsledding
at Goldmyer Hot Springs
Dates: Trip 1 February 28 - March 2, 2014 Trip 2 March 7 - 9, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $75 (AP75) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Day Trips
in Montana
Spend your weekend cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and, best of all, dogsledding in beautiful Montana. Since we like to sleep warm, we’ll spend our evenings in a cozy lodge which is also a great place to warm up between activities. These trips are always popular, so be sure to sign up early to make sure you get a spot. Dates: Trip 1 January 24 - 26, 2014 Trip 2 February 7 - 9, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $175 (AP175) Includes: transportation, equipment, lodging
Ice Climbing*
in Banff
The Banff area is an international ice climbing destination, and we will find frozen water that fits the abilities of everyone on the trip (even first-timers). We spend our evenings in the beautiful mountain town of Banff, sleep in a hostel, and ice climb during the short winter days. Sign up early for this one. Dates: February 14 - 17, 2014 Friday after class - Monday evening Student Price: $175 (AP175) Includes: transportation, equipment, lodging (509) 359-4014
We send a bus to a local ski hill for the day during most weekends throughout Winter Quarter. The destination resorts will be posted on EPIC’s website at the end of Fall Quarter. Ski Bus Dates January 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 31 February 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 28 March 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, Other Day Trips Other day trips, like snow tubing, ice skating, cross country skiing and snowshoeing will be added to the calendar as winter approaches. Check the EPIC website, keep connected on our Facebook page, or stop by the University Recreation Center for details.
Spring Break!
at Mount Baker
We are sending a bus to Mt. Baker for those of you who haven’t gotten enough skiing or snowboarding. Dates: March 23 - 28, 2014 Student Price: $600 Includes: transportation, lodging, lift tickets
* Participants on trips entering Canada must have with them a valid passport or enhanced driver’s license. 13
Spring Quarter 2014
The Cascade Mountains near Silver Star Peak make a beautiful venue for a mountaineering trip -- John Fair
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Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater Rafting
The Salmon River near Riggins, Idaho, is chock-full of fun, Class III whitewater. We’re partnering with Salmon Raft for a two-day adventure on this beautiful stretch of river. We will spend our days charging fun rapids, and afterwards, we’ll spend our nights cooking S’mores and camping by the river.
Come experience the beautiful Methow River at the foot of the Cascade Mountains. Depending on the water level, we will make a couple runs each day down this Class III section of river that sports fairly continuous whitewater throughout. Enjoy whitewater by day, then settle in to our nearby campsite for the evenings.
Dates: May 2 - 4, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $200 (AP200) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Dates: May 16 - 18, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Climbing & Rafting
Mountaineering
Come with us on a multi-sport weekend! We’re headed over to the Cascade Mountains for a weekend of whitewater and rock climbing. You will get one day of rafting the Wenatchee River and one day of rock climbing on some beautiful alpine granite. We will probably explore quirky Leavenworth while we’re in the neighborhood.
Interested in exploring above the treeline in the Cascade Mountains? Join us as we make an attempt Silver Star Peak. We backpack in and set up a basecamp. Then, if the conditions are right, we’ll try for the summit. Along the way you’ll learn the skills you need to climb this snowy peak. A high fitness level is required.
Dates: May 9 - 11, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $125 (AP125) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Dates: May 23 - 26, 2014 Friday after class - Monday afternoon Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Canoeing & Rock Climbing
Whitewater Rafting
This trip is just like the one we run in the fall. In case you missed it, we canoe across Banks Lake, set up camp on a beach and then rock climb right behind our camp. Sometimes we also standup paddleboard and roast marshmallows over the fire. This trip fills quickly, so be sure to sign up early if you are interested.
This trip down the Deschutes River is a holiday-weekend, expedition-style rafting trip. Expedition-style means that we pack all of our gear on the rafts and start floating downriver. During the day, we float the river and charge whitewater rapids, and at night we pull over, unpack, and camp on shore.
Dates: May 16 - 18, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Dates: May 23 - 26, 2014 Friday after class - Monday afternoon Student Price: $200 (AP200) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
on the Salmon River
near Leavenworth
at Banks Lake
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on the Methow River
on Silver Star Peak
on the Deschutes River
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Mountain Biking
Whitewater Rafting
If you read about the Fall Quarter version of this trip, this will sound familiar. The Methow Valley is a mountain biking paradise. We’re going there, and you should come with us. We’ll explore Cutthroat Lake and Bear Mountain trails and camp at a place called Loop Loop. Celebrate the spring with this pre-graduation bicycle romp.
The White Salmon is a lot smaller than most of the rivers that we run, but don’t let its size fool you. This small river packs a punch with lots of action for those of you looking for a big ride. At night we camp at a nearby site, cook and eat good food, and tell semi-true tales by the fire.
Dates: May 24 - 26, 2014 Saturday morning - Monday afternoon Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Dates: June 6 - 8, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $125 (AP125) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
in the Methow Valley
Backpacking
at Hells Canyon
Go for a hike in Oregon along the beautiful Snake River. This moderate hike snakes (pun intended) along the river. Take some time away from your screens and go camping in a beautiful canyon. Wildflowers may be blooming, and there’s a good chance of some wildlife spotting. So tie up your boot laces and hit the trail with us. Dates: May 30 - June 1, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $100 (AP100) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Rafting & Riverboarding
on the Wenatchee River
We’re adding a little extra to our typical Wenatchee River whitewater rafting trip. For folks willing to go through a little training, we are also offering the chance to riverboard the same section of river. So pick your vessel, raft or riverboard, and head downstream for the weekend. Dates: May 30 - June 1, 2014 Friday after class - Sunday afternoon Student Price: $125 (AP125) Includes: food, transportation, equipment (509) 359-4014
on the White Salmon River
Day Trips Here’s a short list of Spring Quarter day trips. Stay tuned on our Facebook page or stop by the Rec Center to find out about day trips as we add more throughout the year. Dayhike 4/3; noon $5 Dayhike 4/10; noon $5 Rock Climbing 4/14; TBD $10 Dayhike 4/17; noon $5 Dayhike 4/24; noon $5 Rock Climbing 4/28; TBD $10 Dayhike 5/1; noon $5 Canoeing 5/7; TBD $10 Dayhike 5/8; noon $5 Rock Climbing 5/12; TBD $10 Standup Paddlebaord 5/14; TBD $10 Dayhike 5/15; noon $5 Mountain Biking 5/21; TBD $10 Dayhike 5/22; noon $5 Caving 5/28; all day $20 Standup Paddleboard 5/31; TBD $10 Standup Paddleboard 6/1; TBD $10 Standup Paddleboard 6/7; TBD $15 Canoeing 6/8; TBD $15 Don’t forget that all year long, we provide Open Pool kayaking and standup paddleboarding on Wednesday nights. Also, Monday night hijinx in the pool happen throughout the year as well, so come slackline or play battleship with us. 17
If you’re wondering what happened after this catalog’s cover photo was taken, here you go. Caroline gives her friends an exciting ride down a rapid named Granny’s on the Wenatchee River. -- riverbooty.com photography 18
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Practicing essential skills: a shallow-water crossing during our Whitewater Rescue Technician course -- John Fair 20
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Skills Courses and Training
knowledge for your next adventure If you want to build your skill base in an activity, we can provide the instruction. Unless otherwise noted, our skills courses are designed for folks of all skills levels, and are an excellent way to try a new activity for the first time. All of our classes are available as non-credit courses. Some classes, however, like our Introduction to Rock Climbing class, are also available for credit through the Physical Education department.
Intro to Rock Climbing
Intro to Whitewater Intro to River SUP Kayaking Surfing
This course covers the skills necessary to climb and belay using a top-rope system both in an indoor facility as well as an outdoor setting.
Learn the basics in a warm pool environment. Class meets on three consecutive Wednesday evenings, and a roll clinic is included in the price.
Dates: Various dates. See EagleNET for availability Student Price: $30 or for-credit
Fall: 10/23, 10/30, & 11/6 Winter and spring dates TBD Student Price: $50 (AP50)
Learn to surf a standup paddleboard on the Spokane River. We have a high day-one success rate, so come try surfing even though we’re 300 miles from an ocean. Dates: 9/26; 10/2; 10/16 Other dates TBD. Student Price: $5 (AP5)
If you’ve gotten a taste of what the outdoors has to offer and are ready to share your excitement with others, EPIC Adventures offers a variety of field-leadership and advanced skills courses that can get you prepared. If you are interested in a career in the outdoors, many of these courses, like Whitewater Raft Guide Training and Wilderness First Responder, lead to licenses or certifications you can use to get a job in the outdoor industry.
Whitewater Raft Guide Training
Outdoor Leadership Training
Learn how to guide a whitewater raft down Class III whitewater. This course is the first step towards becoming an EPIC Raft Guide and a licensed guide in Washington State. Stop by the front desk for an application.
Learn the basic technical and leadership skills it takes to lead groups in the outdoors. This course is a basic requirement for all new EPIC Trip Assistants. Stop by the front desk for an application.
Dates: Weekends in April 2014 Student Price: $250 (AP250) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Dates: November 1 - 3, 2013 Student Price: $75 (AP75) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
technical skills
(509) 359-4014
leadership/technical skills
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skills courses and training continued Wilderness First Responder
Advanced Raft Guide Training
This rigorous wilderness medicine course will help prepare you to respond when things go awry in the backcountry. Required for EPIC Trip Leaders, this course is open to all, and comes with a certification through WMTC. Stop by the front desk to sign up.
Designed for trained EPIC Adventures whitewater raft guides or folks with commercial guiding experience, this course focuses on preparing to be a lead guide. This course is demanding: we test participants to the edges of their technical, physical, and leadership abilities.
Dates: December 14 - 18, 2013 All day with evening sessions. Student Price: $550 Includes: study materials, equipment
Dates: TBD, Spring 2014 participants also shadow Whitewater Raft Guide Training Student Price: $200 (AP200) Includes: food, transportation, equipment
Single Pitch Instructor Course
Whitewater Rescue Technician
Learn the skills necessary to be a well-prepared rock climbing instructor in a single-pitch environment. Three days of skill development are followed by a day-long practical exam. This course is geared towards climbers who are ready to lead others on top rope outings; considerable experience is required.
From swimming Class III drops to technical rope systems for un-pinning a stuck whitewater raft, this course covers the gamut of skills necessary to deal with problems on the river. With a focus on preventing problems before they start, this course provides the knowledge and skills to deal with whatever comes your way.
Dates: March 22 - 25, 2014 Student Price: $200 (AP200) Includes: instruction, some equipment
Dates: May 2 - 4, 2014 Student Price: $150 (AP150) Includes: instruction, some equipment
wilderness medicine
technical skills
technical skills/leadership
technical skills
Other Climbing Courses
see page 28 for details
• • • • •
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Introduction to Rock Climbing Sport Lead Climbing Efficient Climber’s Toolbox Rescue for Climbers Climbing Wall Instructor Course
• • • • •
Climb Time I Climb Time II Climbing Clinic Climbing Anchors Traditional Lead Climbing
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Chris takes another set of vital signs before securing his patient to the litter. Simulations like this one, complete with fake blood, are an essential part of the Wilderness First Responder course. -- John Fair (509) 359-4014
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Special Events
The Grind
October 26, 2013
The seventh annual EWU ski and snowboard rail jam is coming to Eastern on October 26, 2013. Also known as “the Grind,” this event is the largest on-campus rail jam in the country. We truck in twelve tons of snow and dump it behind the library. Then we put up five or more freestyle features, and boom: terrain park. On campus. In October. If you’re not a rider, show up and watch, because it’s free for spectators and we give away a bunch of free stuff (including skis and snowboards). This rail jam is open, but you’ve got to be at least 16 to ride. For info or to enter, stop by or call.
This thing happens behind the library. #SwitchTail #RailJam #theGrind @EWU -- James Painter 24
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Climbtastic Voyage
January 25, 2014
Every year, EPIC hosts a climbing competition called the Climbtastic Voyage. The competition is part of a larger series called the Northwest Collegiate Climbing Circuit or NC3. Climbers from a dozen Northwest universities descend upon EWU for a day of hard bouldering and friendly competition. This competition is open to all Eastern students, and there are categories for people of all ability levels. Sign up, grab a score card, and join us for this huge community event.
Things get a little friendly when 185 climbers show up at the EPIC Climbing Wall -- John Fair (509) 359-4014
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Jessy leading, making it look easy -- Kirestin Hardin
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Climbing Wall Featuring 2000 square feet of climbing surface, the EPIC Adventures climbing wall has climbing terrain to suit EWU students of any ability. If you’ve never climbed before, the EPIC Climbing wall is a great place to learn. If you’ve already climbed miles of vertical rock, we’ve got routes and boulder problems to keep you in shape for your next project. If you are an enrolled student paying the quarterly recreation fee, the climbing wall and its rental equipment are free for your use. It is the perfect place to begin or advance your climbing. First time users will go through a short orientation (5 minutes) to begin using the wall for bouldering. Using ropes will require you to demonstrate proficiency with putting on a
harness, tying in with a figure eight knot and removing slack with the brake-under-slide belay method. Our regularly scheduled belay classes provide instruction for these skills. Ask a staff membor or check out our website (ewu.edu/epic/ climbingwall) for a current schedule. EPIC prides itself for having one of the strongest climbing communities in the Northwest. Since the inception of the Northwest Collegiate Climbing Circuit (NC3), EWU has never finished lower than third and has won twice, in 2010 and 2011. While there have been strong climbers competing for EWU, we are perennial favorites based on the inclusiveness of the community with huge participation from beginner and intermediate climbers.
Hours of Operation Fall, Winter, and Spring Quarters (including finals weeks)
Monday - Friday:
10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday:
12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
...whenever I have 45 minutes to spare between classes and meetings, I slip over to the gym, rent a pair of shoes, and feel a sigh of relief even before I lace up. I chat with the gym staff and jump into rotation to work on a new boulder problem that’s just been put up. EPIC has offered me a space away from the pressure and stress of school and given me a sense of balance. The community I’ve found there has helped me realize that my intellectual pursuits are never fully satisfying unless I also have a healthy body, a relationship with the natural world, and good company for my journeys. (509) 359-4014
- Summer Hess, writer, rock climber, Fullbright Scholar and former Climbing Wall Instructor 27
Academic Climbing Classes vertical improvement starts here
EPIC provides a wide range of climbing courses available through the Department of Physical Education (PHED) under 125 and 135 course numbers. See EagleNET for current quarter availability and details. Most of our classes stand alone with their content but may be taken in series to fulfill a diverse set of personal climbing development goals.
Basic Skills
Climbing Fitness
Technical Skills
Intro to Rock This course covers the skills necessary to climb and belay using a top-rope system both in an indoor facility as well as an outdoor setting. The skills and information in this course include: safety practices, basic climbing knots, belay technique, climbing movement, equipment, and terms.
Climbing Clinic If you’ve taken Intro to Rock and want more climbing coaching, this class is designed to be one “next step”. Climbing Clinics are conducted as weekly twohour sessions. The clinics focus on the physical fitness, technique, and mental training required to improve your climbing performance.
Climbing Anchors This course teaches basic anchoring principles for both bolted or traditional gear anchors. Alpine style belay anchors and top-rope anchors will be covered.
Sport Lead The course covers the skills necessary to lead bolted routes and belay a climber while leading in a gym as well as on outdoor climbs. The skills and information in this course include: safety practices, lead climbing knots, lead belay technique, two bolt basic anchors, set up and take down of lead anchor toprope systems, rappelling, and terms.
Climb Time 1 and 2 These are one- or two-credit “Fast Fitness” type classes in which you can earn credit for your own unstructured climbing time. Climb Time 1 provides one credit and requires 20 hours of climbing to earn a 4.0. You earn a second credit for Climb Time 2 for extra assignments that focus on improving your overall climbing knowledge, skills, and attitudes.
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Climbers Toolbox There are many different ways to belay, configure a belay, ascend, or rappel with a rope. The course covers several variations for each and encourages your development of judgment by comparing reasons a particular method may be either useful or unsafe. Climbing Self-rescue Basic self-rescue scenarios that can be performed from a variety of belay configurations. Traditional Lead Climbing To leave bolts behind and enjoy the Freedom of the Hills, this class is only offered each spring to very experienced climbers.
ewu.edu/epic
EPIC Climbing Instructor Ashely high on the West Ridge of Sherpa Peak in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness --Kevin Klim (509) 359-4014
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Rental Equipment
Planning your own adventures? We have the equipment you need. Our student prices are cheap, so stop by and check out equipment from our huge inventory of high-quality, modern outdoor equipment. 30
ewu.edu/epic
Rental Price List One Day Rental (Student)
One Day Rental (Non-student)
Kelty Gunnison tent
$6.00
$12.00
Marmot 3 Season Sleeping Bag w/Liner
$4.00
$8.00
Marmot 4 Season Sleeping Bag w/Liner
$4.00
$8.00
Firepan
$5.00
$10.00
Midweight Fleece Jacket
$4.00
$8.00
Fleece Pants
$4.00
$8.00
Lightweight Fleece Jacket
$3.00
$6.00
Crazy Creek Camp Chair
$2.00
$4.00
Puffy Jacket
$4.00
$8.00
Rain Jacket
$4.00
$8.00
Rain Pants
$4.00
$8.00
Ridgerest Foam Sleeping Pad
$3.00
$6.00
Osprey Backpack
$6.00
$12.00
Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pad
$3.00
$6.00
Trekking Poles
$3.00
$6.00
Sil Tarp
$10.00
$20.00
One Day Rental (Student)
One Day Rental (Non-student)
Black Diamond Ice Tools
$30.00
$60.00
Black Diamond Headlamp
$3.00
$6.00
Black Diamond Single-walled Mountaineering Tent
$20.00
$40.00
Black Diamond Climbing Helmet
$2.00
$4.00
Climbing Shoes
$4.00
$8.00
Crampons
$4.00
$8.00
Mountaineering Boots
$6.00
$12.00
Camping & Backpacking Equipment
Climbing & Mountaineering Equipment
(509) 359-4014
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rental price list continued Crash Pad
$9.00
$18.00
Marmot Ultra Kompressor Day Pack
$6.00
$12.00
Megamid
$6.00
$12.00
Ice Axe
$10.00
$20.00
One Day Rental (Student)
One Day Rental (Non-student)
Atlas Snowshoes
$6.00
$12.00
Snowboard with boots and bindings
$15.00
$30.00
Snowboard Boots
$5.00
$10.00
Avalanche Probe Poles
$5.00
$10.00
Snow Pickets
$5.00
$10.00
Snow Shovels
$5.00
$10.00
Gaiters
$3.00
$6.00
Bern Snow Helmet
$2.00
$4.00
Rossingnol XC Skis
$6.00
$12.00
Surface Backcountry Skis
$15.00
$30.00
One Day Rental (Student)
One Day Rental (Non-student)
Kokatat Drytop
$15.00
$30.00
Kokatat Dry Bibs
$15.00
$30.00
NRS Inflatable Kayak
$15.00
$30.00
Jackson Whitewater Kayak (Many Models)
$15.00
$30.00
Grumman Canoe
$15.00
$30.00
Kokatat Splashtop
$8.00
$16.00
BIC or Badfish SUP (Standup Paddle Board)
$15.00
$30.00
NRS or AIRE iSUP (Inflatable Standup Paddle Board)
$15.00
$30.00
Kokatat Type III PFD
$2.00
$4.00
Winter Equipment
Water Equipment
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NRS Water Booties
$2.00
$4.00
NRS or Level 6 Wet Suit
$4.00
$8.00
14 ft Raft Package (Paddle Boat or Center Frame)
$30.00
$60.00
12 ft Raft Package (Paddle Boat or Center Frame)
$30.00
$60.00
Cataraft
$30.00
$60.00
Dry Box
$5.00
$10.00
Bern River Helmet
$2.00
$4.00
Large Dry Bag
$6.00
$12.00
One Day Rental (Student)
One Day Rental (Non-student)
MSR Backcountry Stove
$6.00
$12.00
GSI BugabooCook Set
$8.00
$16.00
Water Jugs
$2.00
$4.00
Dutch Oven
$6.00
$12.00
Backcountry Oven
$6.00
$12.00
Cooler, 150 Quart
$4.00
$8.00
Cooler, 60 Quart
$4.00
$8.00
Cooler, 80 Quart
$4.00
$8.00
Coal Chimney
$2.00
$4.00
Coleman Two Burner Stove
$6.00
$12.00
2 or 3 burner Outfitter Stove
$15.00
$30.00
Blue Roll Tables
$3.00
$6.00
One Day Rental (Student)
One Day Rental (Non-student)
Biking Helmet
$2.00
$4.00
Trek Bike
$9.00
$18.00
Cooking Equipment
Mountain Biking Equipment
(509) 359-4014
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Student Employment leaders wanted
If you are interested in a different kind of student employment, we might have what you are looking for. In general, we like to hire students with leadership ability and strong people-skills. Though outdoor experience is helpful, for some positions we often hire positive, mature students with no outdoor background. Training is available for all positions, and for technically demanding positions, like whitewater raft guide or rock climbing instructor, the training is extensive (see pages 21 and 22). Hiring for most positions happens throughout the year, so if you think you have what it takes to be an EPIC Adventures employee, stop by the front desk for an application.
Front Desk
Climbing Wall
Trip Leader
Front Desk Staff run the day-to-day operations at the EPIC Adventures office. From processing rentals to signing students up for trips to repairing equipment, front desk staff make things happen. Though each position is a bit of a jack-ofall-trades, we hire students for specific tasks, such as equipment repair, inventory control, technology support, etc. Front Desk positions offer a relatively steady schedule with a variety of responsibilities to keep things interesting.
Climbing Wall Instructors (CWIs) facilitate the use of the EPIC Adventures Climbing Wall for Eastern students, faculty, staff, and the community. While ensuring proper safety practices, CWIs provide a positive climbing environment for everyone in the gym.
EPIC Adventures Trip Leaders (TLs) facilitate all programs that leave campus. TLs plan itineraries, stage food and equipment, and then lead groups of fellow students on a wide variety of outdoor trips. Some trips, such as whitewater rafting trips, require extensive specific training, so check out page 21 and 22 to see what we offer.
Some rock climbing experience and successful completion of the Climbing Wall Instructor Course and First Aid/CPR/AED training are required.
TL positions offer a very flexible schedule that can adapt as your academic demands change throughout the year. Outdoor Leadership and Wilderness First Aid courses are minimum requirements.
EPIC made my time at EWU, not only because it left me with an amazing amount of outdoor leadership and outdoor experience, but also because it was a very strong community. I felt at home at EPIC; the staff and fellow trip leaders became my close friends. -- Sandra Ewert, former EPIC Adventures employee Look inside the front cover to learn more about how Sandra’s time at EPIC enhanced her EWU experience. 34
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EPIC employees Kirestin and Ashley are all smiles after climbing Chimney Rock -- Kevin Klim (509) 359-4014
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Headed out to the island. A Geology 331 class joins EPIC to explore Bonnie Lake. -- Amber Baumgarten
Find Us (509) 359-4014 150 University Recreation Center Cheney, WA 99004 ewu.edu/epic epicadventures@ewu.edu
On the front: Caroline lines up for another wave. -- riverbooty.com