UWL’s Hiking Club is a free, inclusive club open to students of all majors and levels of physical ability. This club provides an escape to the outdoors and an opportunity to get active through hiking in the bluffs and other local areas.
Founded just six years ago, the club has grown quickly and now sees anywhere from four to 50 participants on each hike. Despite being relatively new, it has built a strong and welcoming community for both experienced hikers and beginners.
The club meets twice a month and offers hiking opportunities year-round, even during the colder months, giving students a consistent way to explore the driftless region and take a break from campus life.
“It brings a sense of peace. It’s definitely a good break from all the craziness that happens when you are a student. Hiking allows you to see different corners of the world which is really cool,” said Club President Clare Yoerger.
The club shares information about upcoming hikes through email and Instagram. Since all hikes take place off campus, they offer ride shares to ensure everyone can participate. Each hike ranges from two-five miles, with popular destinations including Hixon Forest, Perrot State Park and Mathy Quarry.
“Our goal as a club is to just be a space that exists for whoever wants to come. So if you have never come to a hike before, whether it’s the last one of the semester or in the middle of the semester, we are more than happy to have you for just one hike,” said Yoerger.
About once a semester the Hiking Club board organizes a volunteer event in partnership with local organizations. These opportunities often involve trail clean-up or conservation work. Last year, many members volunteered with the Mississippi Valley Conservancy to collect native grass seeds.
“It’s a very positive time, and people are there to take a break from school, but that is what we all have in common. All of us come from different walks of life and different levels of outdoors experience, but you can almost always find something to talk about,” said Yoerger.
If you are interested in learning more about the hiking club visit their Instagram or MyOrgs page.
