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

Join Outdoor UW for their new Outdoor Explorer Series.  Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure! 

Join us at our introductionary bear saftey course to learn the difference between black and brown bears, how to safely travel in bear county, and more. This course will help provide you with a bear saftey toolkit to make you more confident and safe while traveling in bear country. 

Class Learning Outcomes:

• Identify the difference between bears

• Understand where “bear country” is and what bear signs look like 

• Learn how to safely navigate and camp in bear country 

• How to set up a campsite in bear country

• Practice with bear safety tools

Event Description: This classroom lesson will cover the basics of kiting and serve as an introduction to the sport. Important kiting concepts and theories will be covered and demonstrated through instructional videos. A trainer kite will also be available for use and viewing so that aspects of rigging can be taught prior to taking the outdoor classes. A brief talk on ice safety will also be given. Students who have already progressed to outdoor classes but have yet to see the video are also welcome. This class must be taken prior to taking a Winter Kiting A lesson.

Prior to attending this class, students should review the Winter Kiting Manual and the following videos:

• Cold Water Bootcamp

A playlist with more detailed information on snowkiting can be found here. This information will be covered in class and does not need to be watched beforehand.

Location: Check the Today in the Union website or the digital signs in Memorial Union on the day of the lesson. Note that the event start time may appear earlier on the TITU listing but will begin at the time shown here. If the event does not appear on the TITU listing, please go to the Outdoor UW Office and speak with the staff to determine the event location.

Prerequisites: None

Students who complete this lesson will receive an Intro to Kiting Attendance rating.

Post-Lesson Resources:

Instructor Evaluation Form

Incident & Accident Reporting

Event Description: The lesson will cover techniques for safely launching and flying a kite on land. Students will work in pairs with the guidance of their instructor to practice these skills. Students should come prepared with warm, comfortable clothing. Warm, waterproof shoes with good traction are recommended. You do not need to bring skis or snowboard; there will be no riding.

Prior to attending this class, students should review the Winter Kiting Manual and the following videos:

• Wind Window Introduction
• Trainer Kite Exercises
• Survival in the Ice

Location: This lesson takes place at University Bay Fields. Students should meet at the shelter at the Northwest end of the fields.

Prerequisites: Intro to Kiting Attendance (obtained by attending a Winter Kiting Classroom lesson). Students may attend without taking the classroom but must take the classroom before being granted the Kiting A rating.

Students who take this lesson will be working toward earning their Winter Kiting Kite Flying (A) rating. It may take several lessons to achieve proficiency in the skills that constitute the rating. Ratings are issued at the discretion of the instructor.

Post-Lesson Resources:

Instructor Evaluation Form

Incident & Accident Reporting

Description: The Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course is a 10-day long 80-hour course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine. The WFR course is designed to provide you with the tools to make critical medical and evacuation decisions in remote locations. Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather conditions. Come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments. Prerequisites: No previous first aid training is required. You must be 16 years old to attend this course. Certification: Participants are required to pass both written and practical examinations to obtain WFR and CPR certification. Successful course completion earns you a WMI Adult & Child CPR certification and a WMI Wilderness First Responder certification. EMTs will earn a Wilderness EMT certification. All certifications are current for two years.

Should I take the WFR or WFA? 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 an industry standard for outdoor professionals with outdoor schools and guide companies. If you are leading a group in remote areas, this more advanced WFR training can provide you with more in-depth knowledge and practice dealing with a variety of first aid situations. https://www.nols.edu/en/about/wilderness-medicine/

Location: Primary classroom will be held at Memorial Union on 800 Langdon Street in Madison. 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/ 

* 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 *

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.      

Description: The Wilderness First Responder Recertification (WFR-Recert) course is a 3-day 24-hour course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine specifically to recertify participants who are currently holding a Wilderness First Responder Certification. The WFR-Recert course is designed to refresh your skills and knowledge in making critical medical and evacuation decisions in remote locations. Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather conditions. Come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments.

Prerequisites: You must be currently holding a Wilderness First Responder Certification or in your 1-year grace period. You must be 16 years old to attend this course.

Certification: Participants are required to pass both written and practical examinations to obtain WFR and CPR certification. Successful course completion earns you a WMI Adult & Child CPR certification and a WMI Wilderness First Responder certification. EMTs will earn a Wilderness EMT certification. All certifications are current for two years.

Location: Primary classroom will be held at Memorial Union on 800 Langdon Street in Madison. 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/ 

* 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 *

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.      

Under the luminous embrace of a full moon, embark on a snowy expedition across Lake Mendota to the captivating Picnic Point. Revel in the warmth of a crackling campfire, delighting in the ritual of crafting s'mores, before retracing your moonlit steps back to the heart of the adventure at Memorial Union.

The Full Moon hike will be done on snowshoes if conditions allow. Snowshoes are provided by Outdoor UW. The hike will be done on foot if there is no snow. Please wear winter boots for this event and dress accordingly. 

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Embark on a time-traveling adventure at our Themed Ice Skate Night - ABBA Extravaganza, where the ice rink pulses with the infectious beats of ABBA and other 70s hits. Glide seamlessly across the ice, transported to the disco era, as the rink becomes a dance floor filled with the energy of the iconic tunes. Join us for a night of pure nostalgia and groovy moves, creating timeless memories on the ice.

Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.

<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

More info coming soon!

Enjoy an enchanting winter adventure with Outdoor UW's First-Year Student Ice Skating Night on the frozen splendor of Lake Mendota! Glide gracefully under the starlit sky, as the ice becomes your canvas for forging new friendships and creating unforgettable memories against the iconic backdrop of our university. Join us for a night of laughter, spins, and the joy of ice skating, making this event the perfect introduction to Madison's winter wonderland.

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED! See you out there.

<<<PLEASE  COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Discover the thrill of gliding on ice at Outdoor UW's Learn to Ice Skate event, where expert instruction from UW Rec Well turns Lake Mendota into your frosty classroom! Whether you're a first-timer or looking to polish your skills, this picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for mastering the art of ice skating. Join us for laughter, learning, and graceful slides as you embrace the magic of skating on the frozen beauty of Lake Mendota

Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.

<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Venture into the winter wonderland of Lake Mendota as you hike or snowshoe to the secluded haven of Picnic Point. Gather around a roaring campfire, where the crackling flames set the scene for camaraderie and the creation of delicious s'mores, before embarking back to Memorial Union.

The Full Moon hike will be done on snowshoes if conditions allow. Snowshoes are provided by Outdoor UW. The hike will be done on foot if there is no snow. Please wear winter boots for this event and dress accordingly. 

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Gather the whole family for an exhilarating night of frosty festivities at Outdoor UW's Family Night on Ice! Dive into the icy fun with an array of skating games, from limbo challenges to gliding combinations that promise laughter and friendly competition. With freeze skate showdowns, thrilling curling matches, and skating races, this event transforms Lake Mendota into a winter wonderland of family bonding and frozen excitement!

Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.

<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Get ready to lace up your skates and dance on ice at our enchanting Ice Skate Night - (Taylor’s Version)! Glide through the rink to the chart-topping beats of Taylor's greatest hits, from "Shake It Off" to "Love Story," experience a night of fearless spins, dazzling twirls, and unforgettable memories as you embrace the magic of Taylor Swift on ice!

Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.

<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Discover the thrill of gliding on ice at Outdoor UW's Learn to Ice Skate event, where expert instruction from UW RecWell turns Lake Mendota into your frosty classroom! Whether you're a first-timer or looking to polish your skills, this picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for mastering the art of ice skating. Join us for laughter, learning, and graceful slides as you embrace the magic of skating on the frozen beauty of Lake Mendota.

Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.

<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Venture into the winter wonderland of Lake Mendota as you hike or snowshoe to the secluded haven of Picnic Point. Gather around a roaring campfire, where the crackling flames set the scene for camaraderie and the creation of delicious s'mores, before embarking back to Memorial Union.

Snow & S'mores will be done on snowshoes if conditions allow. Snowshoes are provided by Outdoor UW. The hike will be done on foot if there is no snow. Please wear winter boots for this event and dress accordingly. 

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Join Outdoor UW for their new Outdoor Explorer Series. Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure! 

Intro to XC Skiing (In collaboration with th Hoofer Outing Club) 

Getting outside during winter in Wisconsin can be a bit challenging…xc skiing to the rescue! We will learn about the basics of xc skiing in the classroom, then move onto the lake for some hands-on practice. Join us on this introductory course to learn the ins and outs of this winter activity.

Upon completion of this class, participants will:

• Learn about what xc skiing is and why it is popular 

• Understand the difference between classic and skate skiing

• Learn about what gear is needed to have a successful trip 

• Get hands-on practice on xc skis 

*** Cross country ski-ing gear will be provided for practice purposes at this event ****

Celebrate the magic of love under the shimmering winter night sky at our enchanting Ice Skating Night on Valentine's Day! Glide hand in hand with your special someone to the rhythm of romantic themed music, creating unforgettable moments on the glistening ice. Warm up by the crackling campfire, savoring the sweet indulgence of hot chocolate and s'mores. Celebrate Valentine's Day with us, creating lasting memories on the ice.

Skate rentals are included in registration cost. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.

<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Discover the thrill of gliding on ice at Outdoor UW's Learn to Ice Skate event, where expert instruction from UW RecWell turns Lake Mendota into your frosty classroom! Whether you're a first-timer or looking to polish your skills, this picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for mastering the art of ice skating. Join us for laughter, learning, and graceful slides as you embrace the magic of skating on the frozen beauty of Lake Mendota.

Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.

<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu

Gather the whole family for an exhilarating night of frosty festivities at Outdoor UW's Family Night on Ice! Dive into the icy fun with an array of skating games, from limbo challenges to gliding combinations that promise laughter and friendly competition. With freeze skate showdowns, thrilling curling matches, and high-speed skating races, this event transforms Lake Mendota into a winter wonderland of family bonding and frozen excitement

Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.

<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>

***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.

***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu