Elwha Expedition (Ride, Camp, Dip)

Jun 13-14, 2026 | Olympic National Park, Washington

Overview

You’ve got 36 hours in Olympic National Park, let’s make them count.

This fast-paced, multi-modal expedition combines eBiking, hiking, and camping into a single, high-impact experience. Ride along the historic Elwha River Road, which is closed to vehicles, alongside National Park experts, then trade handlebars for hiking boots as you push deeper into the Olympic wilderness.

From glacier-fed rivers to alpine views, this expedition is about maximizing experience in minimal time, powered by movement, learning, and connection.

  • Travel: Participants are responsible for transportation to/from Olympic National Park

    • Carpooling may be available

  • Optional Early Arrival:

    • Option to camp the night of June 12

Applications

Application Date Window: April 2 - Sept 1

Registration Fee: None (Sponsored by NPCA)

Fundraising Opportunity: Raise $100 to earn an Expedition swag pack

Spots Available: 10 participants

Applicants will be notified of their status starting April 20. Applicants who apply after April 20 will be notified on a rolling basis.

At a Glance

Location:

Olympic National Park, Washington

Duration:

~36 Hours (2 Days / 1 Night)

Team Size:

10 participants + guides

Activities:

eBiking, hiking, camping

Ride Distance

~12 miles round trip

Expedition Highlights

The Ride

  • eBike along the car-free Elwha River Road

  • Smooth miles with constant views of glacier-fed water

  • Fast descent on the return ride

The Mission

  • Learn directly from a National Park Service biologist

  • Understand the impact of the Elwha River dam removal project

  • Gain deeper connection to conservation and land restoration

The Reset

  • Mid-ride hike to Madison Hot Springs

  • Recover, recharge, and get back on the trail

The Camp

  • Evening at camp with your team

  • Shared meals, connection, and reset before day two

The Hike

  • Guided hike (location dependent on conditions)

  • Possible areas include Hurricane Ridge and alpine meadows

  • Wide-open views of the Olympic Range

If you couldn’t join us live, you can now watch the full session. Get an overview of the program, trip details, eligibility, and the application process.

Itinerary

Day 1: Ride + Soak + Camp

  • Link up at Elwha eBikes for gear fitting and briefing

  • Begin 12-mile round trip ride along Elwha River Road

  • Meet with NPS biologist + conservation team

  • Midpoint break + hike to Madison Hot Springs

  • Return ride (downhill) to camp

  • Dinner and overnight camping

Day 2: Morning Hike + Departure

  • Break camp

  • Guided hike based on weather and group ability

  • Potential hike near Hurricane Ridge/alpine areas

  • Expedition wrap-up and departure

Itinerary (subject to change) 

Prerequisites & Requirements 

  • Moderate fitness level required

  • Comfortable with biking and hiking in outdoor conditions

  • Must bring personal camping gear

  • Willingness to adapt to weather and changing plans

  • Team-oriented mindset

Equipment & Logistics 

Included:

  • eBike rental

  • Campsite

  • All meals

  • Participants Responsible For:

    • Personal camping gear

    • Transportation to/from the expedition (Carpooling may be available)

  • Support:

    • Expedition Guides + National Park experts

36 hours. Multiple adventures. Zero excuses.
Ride it. Hike it. Earn it.