Registration for this Hybrid WFR course is managed by NOLS.

Once you register you will be given information about how to access the required pre-course online modules that will need to be completed before the course begins.

NOLS enrollment link > 22399 HWFR January 13th-17th, 2025

* 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 *

* Please note that Hoofer members enrolling in this course will have to pay the full tuition price on the NOLS website and will then be refunded the  price difference the course has been completed * 

Description: The Hybrid Wilderness First Responder (HWFR) course is a 5-day long 80-hour course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine. The HWFR 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 (Or Hybrid 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/ 

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.      

Registration for this Hybrid WFR Re-Certification course is managed by NOLS.

Once you register you will be given information about how to access the required pre-course online modules that will need to be completed before the course begins.

NOLS enrollment link > 22400 HWRR January 19th-20th, 2025

* 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 *

* Please note that Hoofer members enrolling in this course will have to pay the full tuition price on the NOLS website and will then be refunded the  price difference the course has been completed * 

Description: The Hybrid Wilderness First Responder Recertification (Hybrid WFR-Recert) course is a 2-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 be in your 1-year grace period (between certification courses). 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/ 

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.      

Intro to Snowshoeing Getting outside during winter in Wisconsin can be a bit challenging…snowshoeing to the rescue! In this class, you will learn about the history and the basics of how to stay above the snow when hiking with SNOWSHOES! Then move from the classroom out 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 more about what snowshoeing is and why it is popular 

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

• Get hands-on practice on snowshoes

*** Snowshoeing gear will be provided for practice purposes at this event ****

Join Outdoor UW for another informative course in the Outdoor Explorer Series (OES).  Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure! 

--- Class is located in the Mendota Lodge on the water level of Memorial Union (along the lakefront and across from the Outdoor UW office) ----

*** If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation for this course, please contact our Dan Dunne, ddunne@wisc.edu ***

Get ready to lace up your skates and glide on ice at our Student "Welcome Back to Campus" ICE SKATE Night! Enjoy chart-topping beats while experiencing a night of fearless spins, dazzling twirls, and unforgettable memories as you celebrate the start of the semester with your fellow students and friends.  

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

Cancellation, Reschedule, and Refund Information

Participant Cancellation: When canceling at least 1 week before the event, a full refund will be possible (if the participant submits a refund request form). Within a week of the event, Outdoor UW staff reserves the right to give full, partial or no refund on a case by case basis.

Outdoor UW Cancellation:The event will be cancelled 24 hours in advance if inclement weather or poor lake conditions exist. In the event of a cancellation, full refunds will be issued. Refunds will not be issued if participants cancel within 24 hours of event.

Equipment/ Gear Required by Participant:

Equipment will be provided. Participants must dress accordingly and be prepared for variable seasonal weather conditions.

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 included for each participant in this event's registration. 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

Can you believe ABBA is still a thing? ...Neither can we, but here we are. ABBA Ice Skate Night is a fun, themed event where attendees enjoy ice skating while listening to the iconic hits of ABBA. The night features a lively atmosphere with music from the legendary pop group, creating a nostalgic and energetic experience on the ice. It's a perfect blend of music, skating, and entertainment for fans of all ages. Get down here and be a dancing queen 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

Cancellation, Reschedule, and Refund Information

Participant Cancellation: When canceling at least 1 week before the event, a full refund will be possible (if the participant submits a refund request form). Within a week of the event, Outdoor UW staff reserves the right to give full, partial, or no refund on a case-by-case basis.

Outdoor UW Cancellation: The event will be canceled 24 hours in advance if inclement weather or poor lake conditions exist. In the event of a cancellation, full refunds will be issued. Refunds will not be issued if participants cancel within 24 hours of the event.

Equipment/ Gear Required by Participant:

Equipment will be provided. Participants must dress accordingly and be prepared for variable seasonal weather conditions.

Hey Hoofers,

On the last Sunday of every month, Boulders hosts an adaptive climbing event, focused on making climbing more accessible, at the East Side location (3964 Commercial Ave, Madison, WI 53714). This program is volunteer-run and a great opportunity to diversify the climbing community that we, as Hoofers, engage with. They are looking for folks to belay and co-climb, no experience necessary, as other volunteers can show you the ropes.

Check out the event and sign up as a volunteer using this link: https://www.bouldersgym.com/adaptive

Boulders East is a 20 minute drive, 30 minute bike ride, or 1 hour bus ride from Madison, so coordinating with other volunteers is the best way to go about it. If you have a car and are willing to drive people, please add your name and information in the following spreadsheet. Likewise, if you need a ride, put your name down as a passenger.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1QctZYuzMWonh10LTrgzAXQ-HA_mtHMhhm75KkyXlu38/edit?usp=sharing

Questions? Email me at mountaineering@hooferambassadors.org or Boulders at adaptiveclimbing@bouldersgym.com

Cheers!

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 included for each participant in this event's registration. 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

Howdy!!

Sign up here for the Winona Ice Fest 3-Day Festival! This festival offers ice climbing for any and every experience level! We are excited to offer this event again for the second year in a row. Learn more here: https://www.bigriverclimbingguides.com/winona-ice-fest 

The Winona Ice Park is the largest ice park in the Midwest, perched high above the Mississippi river between Minnesota and Wisconsin. The park offers ice climbs as tall as 100 ft. The park is hosting it's second ice festival, which includes clinics, gear demos, raffles, after parties, and tons of ice climbing! 

Hoofers will be bringing the party to the ice wall. We'll stay at a large Airbnb (below), capable of hosting a large group of psyched ice climbers, from complete novices to seasoned alpinists. We're providing food, transportation, limited gear rentals, and general stoke. A top-rope rating is required for this trip, but prior ice climbing experience is not necessary.

Breakdown:

Depart from Memorial Union Jan 31st at 6am, return Feb 2nd following a full day of ice climbing (expect ~10 PM). Transportation will be fleet vehicles and personal vehicles. Winona Ice Park is about a 3 hour drive from Madison. 

Cost:

$120-170 per person, depending on the final group size, your selected sleeping arrangements, transportation, etc. $75 (non-refundable) deposit is due upon sign up. The remaining cost will be charged before the trip begins. The additional costs to register for the festival ($30) will get you access to some gear demos, raffles, and local deals at the after parties. There may be additional costs for gear rentals depending on what is available in our gear locker. 

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.

Meet-Up Location/Logistics (WITH snow and ice):

The Snow & S'mores hike will be done on snowshoes if conditions allow. If conditions allow for snowshoeing, participants will meet at the Outdoor UW office in Memorial Union and walk across the ice to picnic point. Snowshoes are provided by Outdoor UW. Please wear winter boots for this event and dress accordingly. 

Meet-Up Location/Logistics (WITHOUT snow and ice):

If there is no snow and ice, the hike will be done on foot from the entrance of picnic point. 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/ 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

*Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event. 

Cancellation, Reschedule, and Refund Information

Participant Cancellation: When canceling at least 1 week before the event, a full refund will be possible (if the participant submits a refund request form). Within a week of the event, Outdoor UW staff reserves the right to give full, partial, or no refund on a case-by-case basis.

Outdoor UW Cancellation: The event will be canceled 24 hours in advance if inclement weather or poor lake conditions exist. In the event of a cancellation, full refunds will be issued. Refunds will not be issued if participants cancel within 24 hours of the event.

Food and Equipment Information:

Some food may be provided for these events (if indicated above), please let staff know before the event if you need us to make a reasonable food sensitivity or allergy accommodation for you.

Equipment/ Gear Required by Participant:

Equipment will be provided. Participants must dress accordingly and be prepared for variable seasonal weather conditions.

Get ready to skate to the beat at our Boy Band Ice Skating Extravaganza! This themed outdoor event brings the best boy band hits from the '90s and early 2000s to the ice. Glide under twinkling lights as iconic tunes from Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, One Direction, and more fill the air. Whether you’re reliving your teenage dreams or discovering the magic of these chart-toppers for the first time, this lively atmosphere, complete with festive decorations and a vibrant crowd, is sure to make your skating experience unforgettable. Lace up your skates and let the music move you!

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

Cancellation, Reschedule, and Refund Information

Participant Cancellation: When canceling at least 1 week before the event, a full refund will be possible (if the participant submits a refund request form). Within a week of the event, Outdoor UW staff reserves the right to give full, partial, or no refund on a case-by-case basis.

Outdoor UW Cancellation: The event will be canceled 24 hours in advance if inclement weather or poor lake conditions exist. In the event of a cancellation, full refunds will be issued. Refunds will not be issued if participants cancel within 24 hours of the event.

Equipment/ Gear Required by Participant:

Equipment will be provided. Participants must dress accordingly and be prepared for variable seasonal weather conditions.

Intro to Cross-country Skiing (In collaboration with the Hoofer Outing Club) 

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

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

Upon completion of this class, participants will:

• Learn about what cross-country 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 with cross-country skis 

--- Class is located in the Mendota Lodge on the water level of Memorial Union (along the lakefront and across from the Outdoor UW office) ----

*** If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation for this course, please contact our Dan Dunne, ddunne@wisc.edu ***

At the beginning of each session, we will briefly teach the participants the absolute basics of ice fishing. We will then have each participant get a rod and they will disperse among the (many) drilled holes to try to catch a fish. We will go around and help the participants throughout the session. Participants will have access to jigging rods and tip-ups

Anyone can participate, we just recommend having proper clothing and footwear for being on the ice.

Prioritize your wellbeing and join us for a relaxing break to reduce stress, calm your mind, and center your goals. Enjoy 30 minutes of mindful meditation followed by guided wellness goal journaling. Coffee and tea available to warm up and get cozy! Feel free to bring your lunch along to eat while journaling.

At the beginning of each session, we will briefly teach the participants the absolute basics of ice fishing. We will then have each participant get a rod and they will disperse among the (many) drilled holes to try to catch a fish. We will go around and help the participants throughout the session. Participants will have access to jigging rods and tip-ups

Anyone can participate, we just recommend having proper clothing and footwear for being on the ice.

At the beginning of each session, we will briefly teach the participants the absolute basics of ice fishing. We will then have each participant get a rod and they will disperse among the (many) drilled holes to try to catch a fish. We will go around and help the participants throughout the session. Participants will have access to jigging rods and tip-ups

Anyone can participate, we just recommend having proper clothing and footwear for being on the ice.

At the beginning of each session, we will briefly teach the participants the absolute basics of ice fishing. We will then have each participant get a rod and they will disperse among the (many) drilled holes to try to catch a fish. We will go around and help the participants throughout the session. Participants will have access to jigging rods and tip-ups

Anyone can participate, we just recommend having proper clothing and footwear for being on the ice.

At the beginning of each session, we will briefly teach the participants the absolute basics of ice fishing. We will then have each participant get a rod and they will disperse among the (many) drilled holes to try to catch a fish. We will go around and help the participants throughout the session. Participants will have access to jigging rods and tip-ups

Anyone can participate, we just recommend having proper clothing and footwear for being on the ice.