Outdoor Explorer Series: Backpacking Basics
The Wisconsin Union
Event Details
Date
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Time
5:15-6:30 p.m.
Location
Mendota Lodge, Lower Level, Memorial Union
Description
Have you ever been interested in learning about what backpacking is all about? Have you ever wondered why is it popular, how do people get into it, where do they go, what do they need, is it possible to backpack and still be comfortable out there? Come to this class and get these questions answered so you can get ready for your first backpacking trip of the season. Upon completion of this class, participants will:
Learn about what backpacking is and why it is a popular outdoor activity
Learn about the gear and supplies needed to backpack effectively and comfortably while also creatively thinking of substitutions they have that can be used in place of high-end/expensive gear.
Learn how to effectively pack a backpack
Learn about local areas that will be good spots for your first backpacking trip and what time of year is the best to visit these location
Get hands on practice with packing a backpack
--- Class is located in the Mendota Lodge on the water lever 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 ***
Learn about what backpacking is and why it is a popular outdoor activity
Learn about the gear and supplies needed to backpack effectively and comfortably while also creatively thinking of substitutions they have that can be used in place of high-end/expensive gear.
Learn how to effectively pack a backpack
Learn about local areas that will be good spots for your first backpacking trip and what time of year is the best to visit these location
Get hands on practice with packing a backpack
--- Class is located in the Mendota Lodge on the water lever 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 ***
Cost
$5
Contact
Accessibility
We value inclusion and access for all participants and are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations for this event. Please call 608-265-6788 (voice only) to make a disability-related accommodation request. Requests should be made by Wednesday, August 26, 2026, though reasonable effort will be made to support late accommodation requests.