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
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
Family Night with Outdoor UW
Bring your family to the Memorial Union Terrace for a fun evening on the lake! Join our Outdoor UW paddling instructors for some awesome games, sightseeing, and paddling on Lake Mendota. Feel free to help yourself to dinner on the Terrace when we return at 6:00 PM.
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
HMC x DLS Spotlight Series: Jimmy Chin
Hi Mountaineers,
Are you interested in adventure filmmaking, professional alpinism, free rock climbing, or just simply wanting to hear a cool story from a cooler fella? If so, please join us for the WUD Distinguished Lecture Series x Hoofer Mountaineering partnership event of the semester! There, you can expect a lovely evening that entails watching a PRE-RECORDED LECTURE (Jimmy Chin will NOT be there), engaging in a guided discussion, eating a delicate array of Mac N Cheese and fruit bowls, and rock climbing at the Sett - all for FREE!!! Stay tuned for more information to come:
WHO: DLS x HMC Event highlighting Jimmy Chin's career in adventure cinematography/personal climbing
WHAT: Pre-recorded lecture viewing, guided discussion, and free food - followed by free climbing at the Sett
WHEN: Wednesday, September 27th (5:00-8:00 PM)
WHERE: Sett Rec at Union South - the lecture vewing room will be disclosed/emailed out at a later date
As always, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!
Best,
Claire
HMC Field Day Social
Hello Mountaineers!
In lieu of our typical Thursday meeting, we will be hosting a field game night at the Near East Fields this week! There, you can expect to play (or spectate) some fun games of frisbee, Spikeball, etc. In addition, if you have a preferred game that you want to play and can provide the appropriate gear, feel free to bring that! Lastly, this is a great opportunity to connect with one another and destress from the chaos of school! Tell your friends! We can't wait to see you there!
Additional Information:
1) The Near East Fields are located directly in front of Dejope Hall. You can find directions here!
2) In order to capitalize on daylight, the start time of this event will be at 6:00pm, instead of 7:00pm!
Trailer Training #1
If you anticipate using a FLEET/DOA VEHICLE to tow a Hoofer-owned trailer at any point this fall or winter, then attend this class to get your trailer towing certification! This would include towing a sailboat for lift-out, towing the horse trailer, towing the alpine ski trailer, or possibly towing the outing club canoe trailer. Please note that if someone cannot make this class, other trailer trainings will be offered in the future. Outdoor UW plans on running two trainings each semester. FLEET AUTHORIZATION WITH WISCONSIN HOOFERS IS REQUIRED. If you are fleet authorized with another UW department, you must submit paperwork with our office as well to become fleet authorized with Hoofers. There is no cost for the class. We will meet virtually before the in-person driving demonstration to get started and review the basics. After a short presentation, we will be leaving our meeting location to go to LOT 60 (by the UW Hospital) to perform the hands-on portion of the training—dress for being outside.
Previous experience driving a trailer is not required for this training, however, it is helpful as the in-person section doesn't provide much time to practice but instead is mostly meant to demonstrate skills and ability to drive a vehicle with a trailer.
If there are questions please reach out to Dan @ ddunne@wisc.edu. A Zoom link for the virtual component of this training will be sent to participants who are registered the day before the event.
Full Moon Hike with Outdoor UW
Explore the Lakeshore Nature Preserve with Outdoor UW under the full moon. Grab your friends and take an evening stroll through with our Outdoor UW hiking leaders and a group of new friends. On this stroll, you will learn about and experience new portions of campus that have explorable outdoor landscapes, some historical information about the area, and how you can get active outdoors this winter. All are welcome for this very beginner-friendly hike along the Nature Lakeshore Preserve. No werewolves allowed.
*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
NOLS Wilderness Medicine - Wilderness First Aid 2-day Course (WFA) - 21254
Description: The Wilderness First Responder (WFA) is a 16-hour certification course that will help you prepare for unexpected medical emergencies in wilderness settings. This fast-paced, hands-on training is designed to meet the needs of trip leaders, camp staff, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals working in remote locations. It will introduce you to caring for people who become ill or injured far from definitive medical care.Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. At the end of the course, you’ll have the knowledge, skills, and ability to make sound decisions in emergency situations. You will also leave the course with a certification that is valid for two years from the date of the course. The course is hosted by OutdoorUW and taught by seasoned NOLS instructors in a two-day format, from 8:00 AM-5:00 PM. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather conditions, so come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments. To learn more about the curriculum please visit: https://www.nols.edu/en/wilderness-medicine/courses/
Should I take the WFA or the WFR? The WFA is a two-day course that primarily focuses on the basics of how to respond to an emergency situation in a remote area. This is perfect for people who are on remote day hikes or shorter trips with friends. This class really focuses on the Patient Assessment System and how to start making decisions on patient care. The WFR is a 10-day long course that is the industry standard for outdoor professionals with outdoor schools and guide companies..https://www.nols.edu/en/about/wilderness-medicine/
Location: Primary classroom will be held at Memorial Union in Madison-800 Langdon Street. We are not able to offer housing or camping for this course. There are hotels and hostels available nearby. Food is not provided but is available for purchase in the building and at nearby locations to Memorial Union. There is a refrigerator and microwave to chill and warm food. https://info.wisc.edu/plan-your-visit/
Register below, call, or stop in the office if there are any questions about this course. Office hours are posted at https://union.wisc.edu/events-and-activities/outdoor-uw/. For additional information or questions about this certification course please contact Dan Dunne 608-262-7445 ddunne@wisc.edu
Hoofer Club Leader Scholarship/Grant: If you are a current Hoofer club member and are hoping to take on more leadership within your club you may qualify for a scholarship/grant to offset the cost of this course. Please submit your application as soon as possible by applying through the links on hooferleaders.org. If you are awarded the scholarship/grant you will receive a follow-up email with directions on how to register for the course using a discount code.
* Several spots on this course will be reserved for Hoofer members. These spots will be released to the general public 1 month before the course start date *
Sport Climbing Clinic in Necedah
Greetings mountaineers!
Come on down to Necedah 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 (262 408-1703). Also if you are able and willing to provide transportation for others for this event please let me know!
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, lots of water
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
Outdoor Explorer Series (Introductory Course): Knot Tying for Outdoor Adventures
More Info coming soon!
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
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
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
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
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