Bascom Hill Madison
The historic and iconic heart of UW-Madison, offering stunning campus views and a challenging, rewarding climb.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Bascom Hill Madison
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The historic and iconic heart of UW-Madison, offering stunning campus views and a challenging, rewarding climb.
"The heart of campus. Not fun going up the hill to classes but it's tough to beat the beauty in of it and the sight looking down from the top."
👟 Wear comfy shoes!
This hill is no joke! Many find it a tough climb, especially on hot days.
📸 Perfect photo spot
The top offers iconic campus views, great for graduation pics or just soaking it in.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Summit View
Top of Bascom Hill
Panoramic views of campus and the city. A quintessential UW-Madison photo op.
North Hall
Ascending Bascom Hill
The historic first building on campus, a testament to UW-Madison's origins.
The Great Lawn
Base of Bascom Hill
Sprawling green space perfect for relaxing, studying, or enjoying campus life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
Capture the Iconic View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfy shoes!
This hill is no joke! Many find it a tough climb, especially on hot days. +2
📸 Perfect photo spot
The top offers iconic campus views, great for graduation pics or just soaking it in.
🚌 Bus option available
If climbing is too much, the 80 bus can take you right to the top.
💪 Great for workouts
Many use Bascom Hill for conditioning and fitness routines. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfy shoes!
This hill is no joke! Many find it a tough climb, especially on hot days. +2
📸 Perfect photo spot
The top offers iconic campus views, great for graduation pics or just soaking it in.
🚌 Bus option available
If climbing is too much, the 80 bus can take you right to the top.
💪 Great for workouts
Many use Bascom Hill for conditioning and fitness routines. +1
📅 Check campus events
Look out for special events like the Latinx Heritage Month March!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bascom Hill is celebrated as the iconic heart of UW-Madison, offering breathtaking campus views and a challenging, rewarding climb. While many appreciate its beauty and fitness potential, some find the steep incline daunting, especially during warmer months. It's a beloved landmark for photos and a testament to the university's history.
"Most popular picturesque places of UWM Madison. People usually get a photo clicked here after graduation ceremony at this place . Green area in front is huge"
seema prakash
"The heart of campus. Not fun going up the hill to classes but it's tough to beat the beauty in of it and the sight looking down from the top."
Judson Kanwischer
"There were over 1000 First Nation burial mounds on this campus"
Trang Tran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bascom Hill is centrally located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. You can walk from many campus locations, take the 80 bus directly to the top, or drive and park in nearby garages.
Yes, the 80 bus route stops at the top of Bascom Hill, making it easily accessible for those who prefer not to climb.
Several parking garages are available near campus, including the State Street Campus Garage and the University Square Garage. Walking from these garages to Bascom Hill is common.
Many find the climb challenging due to the steep incline, especially in warmer weather. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended. +2
While possible, biking up Bascom Hill can be strenuous. Many students opt to walk or use the bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bascom Hill is a public space on the UW-Madison campus and does not require an admission ticket.
Bascom Hill is accessible at all times as it is an outdoor campus landmark.
There is no entrance fee to access Bascom Hill. It's a free public area.
Yes, Bascom Hill is open to visitors at night, offering a different perspective of the campus.
Occasionally, events like the Latinx Heritage Month March are held on Bascom Hill. It's also a popular spot for November Project workouts.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photos. Spring and fall also provide pleasant conditions and fewer crowds.
From the top, you get a picturesque view of the UW-Madison campus, including North Hall, and parts of the city.
Yes, Bascom Hill is an iconic landmark and a very popular spot for graduation photos for UW-Madison students.
The view from the summit, the historic North Hall, and the expansive Great Lawn are all popular photo subjects.
Drone usage on university campuses can be restricted. It's best to check UW-Madison's official policies regarding drone operation.
🎫 💪 Fitness & Activities
Absolutely! Many students and locals use Bascom Hill for its challenging incline, making it ideal for cardio and leg workouts. +1
November Project is a free, community-driven fitness program that holds outdoor workouts, often on Bascom Hill on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Yes, the hill is a popular route for runners and joggers looking for a challenging workout.
The UW-Madison basketball team has been seen doing conditioning workouts on Bascom Hill.
Besides running and general cardio, people use it for stair climbing, sprints, and as part of their overall fitness routine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Great Lawn at the bottom is a fantastic spot for them to run around and enjoy the open space. Pack some snacks and water, and make it a fun adventure to the top for a great view!💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Whether you're running sprints, doing stair climbs, or simply walking up and down, Bascom Hill provides an excellent, free training ground. 📸 Photography Buffs
Don't forget to capture the historic North Hall as you ascend. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Campus: Bascom Hill's Significance
The Great Lawn at the base of the hill provides a vibrant green space that's a hub of student activity. Whether it's impromptu frisbee games, study sessions under the sun, or simply a place to relax, this area embodies the lively spirit of UW-Madison. The hill itself is a daily challenge for many students, a natural gym that keeps legs toned and spirits high.
Beyond its physical presence, Bascom Hill is steeped in tradition and community. It's a gathering place for events, a backdrop for iconic photos, and a symbol of the UW-Madison experience. From the energy of November Project workouts to the celebratory marches, the hill is a dynamic part of campus life.
+1Navigating Bascom Hill: Tips for Visitors
When planning your visit, consider the weather. Hot days can make the climb particularly arduous, while pleasant spring and fall days offer ideal conditions for enjoying the walk and the views. Comfortable footwear is a must, regardless of the season, as you'll likely be doing a fair amount of walking around campus.
Bascom Hill is also a prime spot for photography. The views from the top are classic UW-Madison, and it's a popular location for graduation photos and general campus snapshots. Aim for late afternoons for the best lighting, or visit during a campus event for a more dynamic backdrop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit