Exploring the Outdoors with EWU EPIC Adventures

There are so many reasons why students decide to attend EWU; degree programs, location, class sizes, affordability, etc. Choosing EWU because of proximity to recreation may not have been a deciding factor for some, but it is a huge perk about moving to the Inland Northwest.

EPIC Adventures is EWU’s outdoor program serving students, staff, faculty, and the community by providing guided outdoor trips, trainings, and outdoor gear rentals. EPIC has programs designed for students of all skill levels and has an emphasis on teaching students new activities. We put value into fostering an inclusive community where students can develop confidence, useful skills, and lasting relationships. 

Being outdoors has been linked to lowering stress and increasing mood and mental health. When you attend college you are going through a huge change in your life that may prompt you to want to lower stress or find an outlet. Getting outside with EPIC is a great way to do that. We are proud to offer options for students to explore this region, meet new friends, try new activities, and make memories and experiences that will last you a lifetime.

Outdoor Trips

EPIC is most commonly known for the outdoor adventure trips offered throughout the academic year. Activities are offered seasonally and include skiing and snowboarding, paddle boarding, rock climbing, white water rafting, hiking, mountain biking, camping, and more. EPIC provides local day trips to Spokane, down to Oregon to rock climb, into Montana to visit hot springs, and everywhere in between. Taking part in these trips can take you to places you may have never seen or visited on your own. It’s a wonderful way to explore the area and meet new people.

No experience is necessary to join any activity and we encourage students to join our trips to try out a new activity. Our staff provides any necessary equipment, transportation, lodging, and meals as part of the trip cost. Trips range from a couple of hour day trips to full weekend trips which makes it easy for students to schedule trips around classes and other obligations.

EPIC trips are not just for EWU students. Anyone can sign-up and join one of our trips. EWU students get a discount which makes trip prices unbeatable!

Each trip is student-led by trained student employees and professional staff accompany all technical trips such as rock climbing and rafting. This is a great opportunity to get involved as a student employee on campus if the outdoors is something you already enjoy!

Learn more about what trips we are offering this spring by visiting shopeaglerec.ewu.edu to register!

Outdoor Equipment Rentals

EPIC Adventures also offers a large fleet of outdoor equipment that is available to rent. EPIC rents to anyone, but students get a discount rate that makes the gear extremely affordable to use. We are open year-round and rent out paddleboards, inflatable kayaks, rafts, mountain bikes, camping gear, winter gear, and more.

Gear rentals are a great way for you to take an adventure on your own if there is not a trip that fits your schedule and interests.

To find out more about what gear we rent out, visit our gear rentals page on our website at https://inside.ewu.edu/campusrec/recreationprograms/epic/gear-rentals/

Come Visit Us

EPIC Adventures is located on the 1st floor of the University Recreation Center in Cheney. Our front desk staff is available this spring from 9am to 5pm Monday – Friday and can help you make gear reservations, register for trips, and answer any general outdoor questions you might have. You can also call us at (509) 359-4014 or visit our website at ewu.edu/epic to learn more.