From conquering the rock wall at local Madison gyms to traveling far and wide in search of the most legendary climbs in the country and beyond, Mountaineering Club members take trips that challenge climbers of all levels.
The Hoofer Mountaineering Club is a student-run organization that wants to keep people out on the rocks, while also maintaining a collective of knowledgeable climbers who can both learn from and teach one another. We love teaching new members and we love getting people together to go out and climb as a community, whether it be at the classic Devil's Lake or as far as Spain! We run both club trips and more relaxed unofficial trips for last-minute planners. If you're more experienced, if you're looking to improve or to even just get started, we also offer a climbing team!
A membership with Hoofer Mountaineering gives you access to our gear locker, as well as discounts at the climbing wall in the Sett and 20% off climbing gear at Fontana Sports in Madison.
FAQs
What is Mountaineering?
The Hoofer Mountaineering Club is a student-run organization of climbers that want to keep people out on the rocks, while also maintaining a collective of knowledgeable climbers who can both teach and pass on their knowledge to others.
How do I get started?
To join, you can either purchase a membership online or sign up in-person at the Outdoor Programs Office. We hope to see you at HMC meetings, clinics, socials, and events in the future!
How often does Mountaineering hold events?
You can expect weekly meetings, socials, clinics, and trips.
What kinds of events does Mountaineering have?
Hoofer Mountaineering general meetings are held every Thursday at 7pm in Mendota Lounge. In addition, we hold technical skill clinics, climbing socials at local gyms and crags, and regional and global trips.
Where do you go to climb?
With Devils Lake, Governor Dodge, Necedah, and Hillbilly Hollow in our own backyard, we utilize our local crags to their fullest potential.
Some of our further destinations have included Joshua Tree National Park, Yosemite National Park, the Margalef and Siurana crags outside of Barcelona, and Red Rock Canyon. The annual trip to Red River Gorge for Halloween is a fan-favorite as well.
What is the climbing team?
If you're looking to sharpen your climbing skills, train, socialize, and compete, Hoofer Climbing Team is for you! You can learn more here!
How can I sign up for events?
Become a member!
Do you provide gear?
We sure do. We offer anything and everything a climber may require, so you shouldn't need anything of your own.
How to Join
1. Create your Account!
When you're ready to join, head over to our member site at https://members.hoofers.org to create your account! You must be a Union Member to join. Note that UW-Madison students are automatically granted Union membership.
2. Sign Up for Events!
Once you've joined the club, you can search for events and sign up from the member site. Pick your favorite event, sign up, and get ready for an adventure!
For more information, click the button below!
Contact Us
Hoofer Mountaineering Club
Memorial Union, Lower Level
800 Langdon St.
Madison, WI 53706
(608) 262-1630
info@hoofermountaineering.org
Contact Us
News
HMC's annual Halloween trip to Red River Gorge! This trip was focused on sport climbing. The Red River Gorge in Kentucky has some of the best sport climbing in all of the US, there are routes for all types of climbers! And camping at Miguels, a classic climber camp spot for RRG!
Upcoming Events
HMC General Meeting: WCA Guest Speaker + Risk Management in Climbing
Hi Mountaineers,
Join us in Mendota Lodge (basement floor of Memorial Union) at 7:00PM for a guided discussion with the President of Wisconsin Climber's Association, Doug Hemken, followed by a fun (and important) risk management activity led by Adam Remus. Following our typical meeting structure, we will also be announcing upcoming programming for y'all to get involved in - don't miss it!
I hope to see you there!
- Claire
Outdoor Explorer Series: Managing Risk in Rock Climbing and Mountaineering
In this course we will take a closer look at the real risks in rock climbing and mountaineering. We will discuss ways to identify those risks as well as some common strategies for managing those risks. We’ll also point out some of the most common inconsistencies in those strategies—moments where our human weaknesses are revealed. Finally, we’ll propose strategies for analysis and self-reflection.
Where: Mendota Lodge, lower level of Memorial Union
Sport Climbing Clinic
Hi all!
Join Caitlin and I for a Sport Climbing Clinic at Hillibilly Hollow on the afternoon of Friday, October 6th. There are only 5 spots -- these will go fast!
We will be meeting at the Memorial Union circle at 12:30pm and departing at 12:45pm. Transportation is included! You must have a top rope rating to attend. You can test out at the Gear Manager's office hours, the President's office hours, or General Meetings on Thursday nights (see RecHub for more info).
Make sure to bring a harness, helmet, shoes, and belay device. As always, rent from the gear manager if you do not own these already!
Expect to venmo Caitlin a few dollars for gas!!
Stoked to see you there,
AC
Bouldering Social at Boulder's Downtown
Come have a fun friday afternoon at Boulders downtown, get stronger and socialize with other club members.
Day or guest passes will be required for those with no membership.
Fall Colors Hike
Take a stroll through the scenic Picnic Point during the most beautiful time of fall. Learn about the trees, leaves, and color changes while taking in all the beauty nature has to offer! Bring your pumpkin-spiced lattes and sweaters for a cozy hike.
*Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
Meet-Up Location/Logistics:
The Outdoor UW Crew will be meeting participants at the Picnic Point entrance gate located at 2000 University Bay Drive, and ending the hike at Outdoor UW (800 Langdon St).
The entrance of Picnic Point is located at 2000 University Bay Drive next to the B-Cycle parking/bike racks, Lot 130 Parking, and Bus Stop # 2881 ‘University Bay & Picnic Point (EB)'. Madison Metro route #80 is free and will take you from Memorial Union to Picnic Point. More info can be found here: https://lakeshorepreserve.wisc.edu/visit/getting-here-and-parking/
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our manager, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Anchors 2 Clinic
This clinic provides an extension to anchor techniques learned in Anchors I for building top rope anchors, much of which is neccessary for climbing at Devil's Lake. Topics covered in this clinic include the use of traditional rock climbing protection in top-rope anchors and more advanced rigging systems. We will begin our clinic at the CCC parking lot at 8:00 am and finish around 4:00 pm. If all goes well, we should have time to build anchors and climb on them! You can expect to be back in Madison around 5:00 pm.
Prerequisites:
Anchors I rating or equivalent knowledge (message education@hoofermountaineering.org for any questions regarding this)
Items to bring:
- At least 2L of water
- Lunch and snacks
- Sturdy closed-toed hiking shoes
- Sun protection
- Helmet*
- Harness*
- Climbing shoes*
- Belay device*
*can be rented from HMC, email a gear manager (gearmanager@hoofermountaineering.org) to reserve
Optional items to bring (we don’t expect anyone to own these, but if you do, it can be useful to learn on your own gear) :
- Personal tethering system (e.g. sling, PAS, prussik, or auto-camming device like a Grigri)
- Anchor gear (e.g. cord, slings, runners, webbing, lockers/non-lockers, personal rack)
Transportation:
- Meet at Memorial Union Circle (parking circle between Memorial Union and Helen C. White hall) at 7 AM to carpool, otherwise you can meet at the CCC parking lot at 8 am.
Question?
- Email Adam Remus at arremus@wisc.edu
Sport Climbing Clinic at Governor Dodge
Greetings mountaineers!
Come on down to Governor Dodge State Park to learn how to sport climb! We will go over the basics of sport climbing with a mock lead scenario. You'll learn proper lead belay technique, proper clipping technique, how to rappel, and everything else you'll need to know in order to obtain your HMC Sport Rating. We have lots of fun sport climbing trips coming up that require a rating, so this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with sport climbing before attending these stellar trips! We will be leaving in my car from the circle between Memorial Union and Helen C White at 8AM and will be returning in the early evening. If you have your own transportation, you don't need to officially sign up for this event but feel free to meet us there. Please shoot me a text if you plan to do this (708-203-8789).
Please contact our gear managers (gearmanager@hoofermountaineering.org) if you do not own your own gear that is required for this trip because they can get you what you need!
Pre-Requisite(s): A Hoofer Mountaineering Top Rope Rating, so please plan accordingly
Gear Required: Harness, Climbing Shoes, Helmet, Belay Device
Food to bring: Lunch/snacks, WATER!!!
Day Trip to Devil's Lake with Hillel
Looking for a way to get off campus and enjoy fall, go for a hike, talk about the environment and identity or learn about some places to get involved on campus?
Join Hillel and Hoofers for a day trip to Devil's Lake from 11 a.m - 4 p.m. Transportation and food will be provided and we will spend the day enjoying Devil's Lake, hiking, bird watching, playing games, sharing a meal, and discussions.
Meeting point will be at the parking circle between Memorial Union and Helen C. White at 11 a.m October 8th, and we will return to the same spot at 4 p.m that day.
Spots are limited, sign up here: Hillel x Hoofers Day at Devil's Lake
SIGN UP WILL OPEN AT 3 P.M TODAY Friday, September 22
This event is for any and all Hoofer club members!
Hoofer Council President Office Hours
Come chat with the Hoofer Council President! Whether you have questions, concerns, ideas, or Hoofer highlights to share, drop by the Outdoor UW Leader Lounge (B105, located across from Mendota Lodge in the lower level of Memorial Union - ask the front desk staff if you're having trouble locaing it).
Weekly Office Hours:
Monday
- 11 AM to 2 PM
Tuesday
- 12 PM to 2 PM
Wednesday
- 11 AM to 2 PM
Thursday
- 11 AM to 1 PM
HMC President Office Hours
Hello Mountaineers!
Do you have questions or ideas for the club? Want to earn gear ratings? Stop by the Mendota Lodge on Tuesdays between 2:00-4:00 PM to chat about all things related to Hoofer Mountaineering, or unrelated! If you have additional questions, please feel free to email me at mountaineering@hoofers.org! Come hang out!
- Claire
Boulders Downtown Social
Come have fun with fellow hoofers and get strong! Tuesdays and Fridays, boulders is the place to be!
Guest Pass or Day Pass required for people with no membership
Toprope Clinic at The Sett
Hi Mountaineers!
Are you new to climbing? Or wanting to sharpen up some foundational skills? If so, I encourage y’all to register for my TR Clinic at The Sett on October 10th! This is an awesome opportunity to expand your climbing knowledge in an environment that fosters supervised practice and individualized instruction.
Overview: This clinic will give participants the skills and confidence necessary to join in outdoor trips and/or go to local climbing gyms. The first part of the clinic is focused on building necessary skills for climbing safely and sensitizing participants to the risks associated with climbing. The second part of the clinic is designed to introduce participants to basic techniques for safe and efficient movement on rock.
Clinic Objectives: At the end of the clinic, participants will be able to adequately complete the following:
- Put on and secure a standard climbing harness
- Tie-in to harness using a figure-8 knot
- Safely belay climbers on top-ropes using a tube-style device (ATC, Reverso, and other similar devices)
- Use common climbing commands
- Fall safely on top-rope
- Identify key risks associated with climbing indoors and outdoors
- Identify some examples of good climbing technique
FAQ
When: Tuesday, October 10th (7:00-8:30)
Location: Sett Recreation (Basement floor of Union South)
While there is no charge from Hoofer Mountaineering, a Sett Recreation membership will be needed to attend these clinics. Note that HMC members get a school year membership at a great discount through Sett Recreation. I would recommend exploring that option when it comes time to finance this event!
Required Gear: If you do not own personal climbing equipment, there is absolutely no need to worry! Reach out to our wonderful Gear Managers (gearmanager@hoofermountaineering.org) and they will be happy to assist you in obtaining all gear needed for this event free of charge. Furthermore, there is gear eligible to be rented through Sett Recreation, however, there are fees associated with the rentals. Attendees will be expected to come to this clinic with a harness and climbing shoes. All further necessary gear will be provided!
That's all for now - if you have any additional questions about this event, please don't hesitate to shoot me an email at mountaineering@hoofers.org!
Cheers,
Claire
Hike and Brew
Spend your evening outdoors and at the Terrace. Enjoy the leisurely hike to Picnic Point with our fun, energetic staff who will guide you on all the knows of the land. After the hike, enjoy a beverage at the terrace while you watch the sunset and listen to the band! Those 21 and over can enjoy an alcoholic beverage, so please bring your ID! Those under 21 will have just as much fun and can enjoy a non-alcoholic beverage!
*Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
Meet-Up Location/Logistics:
The Outdoor UW Crew will be meeting participants at the Picnic Point entrance gate located at 2000 University Bay Drive, and ending the hike at Outdoor UW (800 Langdon St).
The entrance of Picnic Point is located at 2000 University Bay Drive next to the B-Cycle parking/bike racks, Lot 130 Parking, and Bus Stop # 2881 ‘University Bay & Picnic Point (EB)'. Madison Metro route #80 is free and will take you from Memorial Union to Picnic Point. More info can be found here: https://lakeshorepreserve.wisc.edu/visit/getting-here-and-parking/
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our manager, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Bakke Climbing Social
Hi friends,
Join me and your fellow Mountaineers at Mount Mendota in the Bakke on Wednesday, October 11th from 6-8 PM for a climbing social! Nothing too fancy - just a bunch of cool folks getting together to crush and hang out! See you there!
- Claire
Sup & Sip with Outdoor UW
Hop on a paddleboard and enjoy the last rays of the summer sun!
Learn how to paddle a SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) correctly and simply vibe on Lake Mendota. After an hour-long guided tour of the lakefront by paddleboard, join your new group of friends for a beverage of your choice (alcoholic or non) on the Terrace while you listen to some live music afterward! Remember to bring your ID if you plan to enjoy an alcoholic beverage!
Hang ten and see ya on the lake :)
Participants under 18:
A parent or guardian must create the account. If you are signing your child up for this event, please click "add additional family member" on the next screen and enter your child's name and emergency contact. On the next screen, select your child's name and click the green button. Follow the remainder of the prompts until you are directed back to the event page and your child is listed as a participant. All participants under 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Participants over 18:
After you create an account, select your name on the next screen and click the green button. You will be prompted to enter your information and agree to our waiver and behavioral standards. Follow the prompts until you are directed back to the event page and you are listed as a participant.
Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Meet at the Outdoor UW desk in Memorial Union.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat/sunglasses. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet! Key lockers and bathrooms are available. Union policy prohibits the operation of paddle crafts under the influence of alcohol. If you have consumed any alcohol before your paddle, you will not be permitted to participate.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
HMC General Meeting: Routesetting Lecture with Kevin Baker from Boulders
Hi Mountaineers,
Join us in Mendota Lodge (basement floor of Memorial Union) at 7:00PM for a guided discussion with one of Madison's most renowned route-setters, Kevin Baker! Following our typical meeting structure, we will also be announcing upcoming programming for y'all to get involved in and hosting a fun event at the end - don't miss it!
I hope to see you there!
- Claire
Bouldering Social at Devil's Lake
Hi folks,
Join Alex, Cam, and I for a morning bouldering session at Burma Road at Devil's Lake! Our cars will be leaving Memorial Union Circle at 9:00 AM - please don't be late!! This is not a paid event, though I might ask attendees to chip in for gas or buy drivers ice cream treats. Feel free to meet us there if you can arrange your own transportation - please shoot me a text preemptively (763-913-6213) if you plan on meeting us there! Cheers!
- Claire
Destination Picnic Point with Outdoor UW
Take a tour of Lake Mendota to Picnic Point with our knowledgeable Outdoor UW staff. Learn more about the Lake, UW Madison history, and the wildlife in between. Beach ashore Picnic Point for a fire and s’mores to fuel up for an exciting paddle back to the Terrace.
Sign Up Instructions:
Please sign up for the event below. We will also be accepting sign ups the day of if space permits.
Participants under 18:
A parent or guardian must create the account. If you are signing your child up for this event, please click "add additional family member" on the next screen and enter your child's name and emergency contact. On the next screen, select your child's name and click the green button. Follow the remainder of the prompts until you are directed back to the event page and your child is listed as a participant. All participants under 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Participants over 18:
After you create an account, select your name on the next screen and click the green button. You will be prompted to enter your information and agree to our waiver and behavioral standards. Follow the prompts until you are directed back to the event page and you are listed as a participant.
Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Meet at the Outdoor UW desk in Memorial Union.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat/sunglasses. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet! Key lockers and bathrooms are available. Union policy prohibits the operation of paddle crafts under the influence of alcohol. If you have consumed any alcohol before your paddle, you will not be permitted to participate.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Hoofer Council President Office Hours
Come chat with the Hoofer Council President! Whether you have questions, concerns, ideas, or Hoofer highlights to share, drop by the Outdoor UW Leader Lounge (B105, located across from Mendota Lodge in the lower level of Memorial Union - ask the front desk staff if you're having trouble locaing it).
Weekly Office Hours:
Monday
- 11 AM to 2 PM
Tuesday
- 12 PM to 2 PM
Wednesday
- 11 AM to 2 PM
Thursday
- 11 AM to 1 PM