By Kristen Oliphant, Events and Partnerships Manager
Have you ever dreamed of embarking on a backpacking adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Olympic National Park? Washington’s National Park Fund is excited to launch a new fundraising program: Trek for the Trails in the summer of 2024!
If the idea of exploring a handful of the park’s 600+ miles of trails while contributing to a cause that’s meaningful to you sounds like an adventure of a lifetime, then Trek for the Trails is the perfect program to turn your dreams into reality.
If you’re familiar with our Climb for a Cause program, you’ll find that the format is similar to Trek for the Trails. However, in this adventure, rather than venturing into the alpine zone of Washington’s national parks, trekkers will explore the captivating Enchanted Valley and its surrounding forested areas.
In partnership with Wildland Trekking, this four-day guided backpacking tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts who want to give back with a pack on their back.
💡 Fun Fact: Donor gifts have provided over $1 million in funds designated directly to trail work in Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks in the last decade! Specifically at Olympic National Park in 2022, 18 miles of the Bogachiel River Trail was cleared of downed trees. In 2023, over 16 miles of the Low Divide Trail was cleared of winter windfall, providing access to the large number of seasonal visitors to this important trail. All of this work is made possible in part by WNPF donors – thank you!
How does it work? Participants commit to raising funds that will directly contribute to trail work on the park’s extensive network of over 600 miles of trails. It’s more than just a backpacking journey; it’s a commitment to preserving the beauty and accessibility of Olympic National Park for future generations.
Do I have to be an experienced backpacker? Trek for the Trails is open to beginners! The key is preparation. Training is essential, and starting early ensures you’re physically ready for the adventure. Wildland Trekking provides a wealth of resources on their website, offering insights into the trek’s physical demands, itinerary details, required gear and equipment, camping arrangements, and more.
By joining today, you will be a part of this program’s inaugural team! Trek for the Trails is more than just a backpacking program; it’s a journey that combines adventure with purpose. Join us on this transformative experience and make your mark on the trails in the parks that you love.
Reach out to Kristen Oliphant (kristen@wnpf.org) for more details and secure your spot today!
Washington’s National Park Fund is the official philanthropic partner of Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. We raise money to preserve and protect these three national parks, funding scientific research, youth and family experiences, and projects that will keep them strong and vital now and forever. To learn about the projects that we support in the parks, visit our project portfolio.
Cover photo taken in Olympic National Park, by Nate Brown, WNPF Creative Partner.