The Wisconsin Hoofers is one of UW–Madison's oldest and largest student organizations, with more than 2,000 members. Since 1931, Hoofers has been building a community by providing instruction and excellence in outdoor recreation. While Hoofers is a student-led organization, Wisconsin Union members can join any of the six clubs, creating a unique blend of students and community members enjoying the outdoors together.
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 participate in socials, clinics, and trips that push and create an everlasting bond between climbers of all levels.
The Hoofer Outing Club provides a variety of outdoor activities, such as backpacking, paddling, mountain biking, winter sports, and fly fishing. Membership includes access to essential gear, facilitating participation in events from casual bonfires at Picnic Point to international expeditions. The club fosters a strong community and offers opportunities for leadership development through major trips during breaks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced adventurer, the Hoofer Outing Club welcomes all outdoor enthusiasts.
Hoofer Riding Club offers horseback riding lessons and schooling shows for beginners, advanced riders, and anyone in between.
With the second largest inland fleet of boats in the United States, the Hoofer Sailing Club offers lessons with anything from techs and wind surfing to scows and keelboats. The 1,000 plus members that make up the sailing club enjoy the perks of Friday night socials and special events on and off the water.
The Hoofer Scuba Club takes exploration to new depths with year-round trips, training sessions, and socials. Whether it’s carving pumpkins and decorating Christmas trees underwater for the holidays, or exploring shipwrecks around the country, the Scuba Club has something to test every diver’s abilities.
As seen walking around campus in their signature winter hats, the Hoofer Ski and Snowboard Club members take advantage of weekly lessons and trips to Tyrol Basin, winter break trips to ride some of the most famous resorts in the west, a weekend at Mount Bohemia, the annual Jackson Hole spring break trip, and taking over Observatory Hill for the annual Rail Jam.
