Shake things up by taking your team, group of friends, or family out on an adventure. We can create the perfect experience for you. Review our group offerings below or to book your next outing fill out our Private Group Experience form!
*** Please note that events requested within 3 weeks from today's date are often not able to be staffed with such short notice ***
Summer Private Group Experiences
Enjoy the challenge and excitement of learning to paddle a watercraft with your friends or colleagues. Then, test your newly developed skills through instructor-led challenges!
| Group Size | Cost* |
| 4 or Less | $30 |
| 5 to 9 | $25 |
| 10 or More | $20 |
* Cost is per person, per hour for this instructor-guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Looking to head out on the lake with a group? We can set this up for you any day and any time of the week, however with a morning reservation you can ensure that your group will have the equipment you need at the time you want it.
During a Self-Guided Open Paddle (Only available for groups where all participants are over 18 years old) our staff will reserve all of you group's paddle craft and get you ready to head out on the water together. We will provide some safety guidelines and a quick paddle introduction, but after that it is up to your team to forge it's own path and set out on this lake adventure together. This is a perfect option for adult groups who want to explore Lake Mendota's beauty together during a private and leisurely paddle.
| Group Size | Cost* |
| 5-9 | $25 |
| 10+ | $15 - $18 |
* Cost is per person, per hour for this self-guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Looking to head out on the lake with a group? We can set this up for you any day of the week, however with a morning reservation you can ensure that your group will have the equipment you need at the time you want it.During an Instructor Guided Open Paddle (required for groups with participants under 18 years old) our seasoned Outdoor UW staff can facilitate group activities/games for your group, or simply provide rescue support and supervision while paddling a short distance away from the group. This is a perfect option to enjoy a private and leisurely paddle while exploring Lake Mendota's beauty with your group.
| Group Size | Cost* |
| 4 or Less | $30 |
| 5 to 9 | $25 |
| 10 or More | $20 |
* Cost is per person, per hour for this instructor-guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Through activities on and off the water, you are sure to have a blast whether your group is getting to know each other for the first time or are longtime acquaintances. You’ll leave this experience feeling stronger as a team and bringing the fun off the water! This experience will be customized to your group's desired activity and skill level.
| Group Size | Cost* |
| 4 or Less | $30 |
| 5 to 9 | $25 |
| 10 or More | $20 |
* Cost is per person, per hour for this instructor-guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Embark on a paddle on Lake Mendota led by UW-Madison students to have fun in nature, get great views of the city, and learn along the way. Perfect for visitors to Madison or locals who want to learn more about the UW, the Wisconsin Union, and their relationship with Lake Mendota.
This experience has the option (additional fees may apply) to beach up on Picnic Point for a fire and s’mores!
| Group Size | Cost* |
| 4 or Less | $30 |
| 5 to 9 | $25 |
| 10 or More | $20 |
* Cost is per person, per hour for this instructor-guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Fun and games feel fresh and exciting when you put them into action on the water. Bring your group out to enjoy competitive challenges on and off the water! Team up or everyone for themselves as our OUW staff referee games on the water and on land.
| Group Size | Cost* |
| 5-9 | $25 |
| 10+ | $20 |
* Cost is per person, per hour for this instructor-guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Rent a mix of paddle craft (kayak, canoe, paddle board and supsquatch) for your large group. Reservation slots filled? Let us set something up for you and your group. We secure the boats for your group during normal rental hours.
| SUP OR Kayak OR Canoe | One Person Craft | Two Person Craft | Multi Person Craft (5-8 persons) |
| UW Madison Student | $15 | $20 | - |
| Non-Student | $18 | $22 | - |
| Lily Pad | - | - | $35 |
| SupSquatch | - | - | $50 |
* The Lily Pad and SupSquatch rentals are per equipment, per hour for pricing
* Cost is per person, per hour for this self guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Rent the SupSquatch, an 8-person standup paddleboard, and work as a team to propel and steer this behemoth. Whether it's a success or a navigational bust, taking this monster inflatable SUP out on Lake Mendota will be a memorable self guided adventure.
Cost: $50/hr
Group Size: 5-8 people, 2 guardian minimum with youth participants
All paddle boards all the time. Float on or paddle hard with your crew as you soak up the summer sun. We can accommodate up to a 40 person group for this adventure!
SUP OR Kayak OR Canoe | One Person Craft | Two Person Craft |
| UW Madison Student | $15 | $20 |
| Non-Student | $18 | $22 |
* Cost is per person, per hour for this self guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Splash, plunge, soak, and have fun in the sun this summer. Cool off with our floating Lily Pad just off the Terrace. Take on this self guided experience during our open hours!
Cost: $35 per hour,
People: 3-5 persons, 1 guardian minimum with youth participants
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Adventure out on our adaptive kayak made for paddlers with physical limitations. This tandem kayak is customized to you and your needs to sightsee Lake Mendota. Please note that two people are required to be on the kayak at all times.
| Guided Reservations | |
| Per Hour* | |
| UW Madison Students | $5 |
| Non Students | $10 |
* Reservations required call (608) 262-163
* Cost is per person, per hour for this instructor-guided experience.
* Rates may change depending on demand and staff availability.
Custom Education
Snow before you go. Prepare to explore snowy, mountainous terrain with an introduction to the causes, risks, and signs of an avalanche, as well as the gear, resources, and training necessary to responsibly enjoy winter recreation.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
A good campout deserves a good campfire. Lear how to build a fire in the backcountry using Leave No Trace considerations and practices. As we sit around the campfire, our staff can facilitate team-building discussion or dive into another topic of your choosing.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught at Dejope Hall but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Dinner is served... by you! Discover the tools necessary to catch, clean, and cook fish while exploring in the backcountry.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Sure, you can pack a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, but how about enjoying a warm meal at the end of your day outside instead? Learn to plan, prepare and cook nutritious meals while on remote trips.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
We've got your back(pack). Find out more about what makes backpacking such a popular outdoor activity, while learning about local areas and reviewing how to best prepare for your next trip affordably.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Bike + backpacking = bikepacking. With the necessary knowledge skills, and equipment, you'll learn how to confidently travel under your own pedal power.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Get out the to-do list; this introduction to camping and trip planning will help you check all the pre-adventure boxes! We will briefly cover logistical considerations for organizing your trip such as: permitting, gear, food, self-care, first aid, emergency planning, etc.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Go further faster on your next adventure by learning how to plan and pack safely for a car camping trip! This course will specifically cover the ins and outs of parking and permits, safety measures, alternative housing, and gear for a successful adventure.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Win at winter in Wisconsin -- join us to learn about the basics of cross-country skiing both in the classroom and on the frozen lake!
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Explore more and worry less! This course will teach you the principles of wilderness first aid and introduce the Patient Assessment System with time to practice life-saving scenarios.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
It takes all of us. Preserve our planet and discover the 7 principles of Leave No Trace to create a better outdoor experience for yourself and future explorers.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Bears. Burns. Blizzards. Be prepared for a variety of scenarios you may face in the wilderness! Kick-start any adventure safely and effectively by learning or refreshing your knowledge on how to safely adventure, while navigating tough situations outdoors.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
You can't always rely on your phone to get you to your destination--but you can rely on us! We'll teach you about tools you can use to successfully navigate the wilderness.
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Camp stop, won't stop. Don't let the winter weather stop you--learn about different forms of winter camping and skills to keep you safe (and warm)!
Begin, grow, or master your outdoor knowledge and skills with custom outdoor education courses! Courses are most often taught in the Mendota Lodge of Memorial Union but can be taught offsite (additional fees may apply).
Cost: $10/hr
Group Size: Minimum 10 people per hour-long session (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
* Cost is per person, per hour
Year-Round Group Experiences
Want to do something active and outside with your group but don't see exactly what you have in mind? The best part about working with Outdoor UW is that we love a good challenge. Let us know what you're looking for and we'll find a way to make it happen. We can combine aspects of almost any of these outdoor offerings to create a program unique to your group.
Call us at (608) 262-1630 or submit a request below and we can start organizing your dream group experience.
Spend your evening outdoors and at the Terrace. Enjoy the leisurely hike from Picnic Point to Memorial Union with our fun, energetic, and knowledgeable staff who will guide and share with you on all the interesting facts about the lakefront. After the hike, enjoy a beverage or snack (provided by Outdoor UW) while your group relaxes to some live music* on the terrace. Those 21 and over can enjoy an alcoholic beverage, so please bring your ID! We would love to accommodate any size group.
Cost: $20/per person
Group Size: Minimum 10 people (1 guardian minimum with youth participants)
Winter Private Group Experiences
Venture out onto frozen Lake Mendota! Bring your friends, family, or coworkers for a winter experience you’ll never forget!
Self-Guided Snowshoeing
What: Choose your own adventure—explore frozen Lake Mendota or hike to your destination via snowshoe.
When: Events can be booked Mon-Fri from 12–6 PM or Sat-Sun from 11 AM – 5 PM
Cost: $9/hour per person (20 person max.)
Guided Snowshoe Hike
What: Explore the frozen lake with a guided snowshoe hike to Picnic Point! Rentals and hot beverages are included. Add-ons include group bonfire, s’more-making, and/or hot chocolate (at the halfway point of your experience)!
When: Events can be booked Mon-Fri from 12–6 PM or Sat-Sun from 11 AM–5 PM
Cost: $15/hour per person
Winter Experiences Sampler (Skating & Snowshoeing)
What: Why choose between ice skating and snowshoeing when you can do both! Add-ons include group bonfire, s’more-making, and/or hot chocolate (at the halfway point of your experience).
When: With advanced notice, your event can be held at any time on any day of the week!
Cost: $20/hour per person (min. 2 hour booking)
Note: Only 16 participants can be on snowshoes at a given time due to limited supply
Bundle up your group and get outside this winter with these sweet winter activities!
Guided Lakeshore Hike
What: Hike along Lakeshore Path to Picnic Point while learning about local history, Lake Mendota, flora and fauna from the Outdoor UW naturalists.
When: Events can be booked during our open hours.
Cost: $5/hour per person (6 person min., 20 person max.)
Private Ice Skating
What: Enjoy a private ice skating outing on Lake Mendota. Rentals, music, lighting, and hot beverages provided.
When: Events can be booked during our open hours.
Cost: $200-$320
Winter Experience Sampler (Skating & Snowshoeing)
What: Why choose between ice skating and snowshoeing when you can do both!
When: With advance notice, your event can be held at any time on any day of the week!
Cost: $20/hour per person (min. 2 hour booking)
Note: Only 16 participants can be on snowshoes at a given time due to limited supply.