Walking (or running or skiing!) is an ideal way to get around campus. With many miles of sidewalks and pedestrian paths, pedestrians have many safe and scenic routes to choose from.
Benefits of walking
Different people enjoy different benefits of walking… here are just a few of the ways that walking could benefit you:
- Add exercise to your daily routine.
- Take time to decompress and get re-energized while traveling from point A to point B.
- Reduce your carbon footprint.
- Interact with others in the campus community.
- Short trips on campus are often easier on foot than by car.
Biking and Walking
Walking resources
- Take a look at the UW Pedestrian handout (PDF).
- See our maps/routes on internal passageways (PDF) (Note: generally these are routes with no incline or stairs, but there may be heavy fire doors along these paths, so not all routes are completely ADA accessible). See the accessible transportation options page for additional resources.
Walking distances
Want to know how long it would take you to walk somewhere on campus? We’ve provided average trip times for common routes here:
- WARF Building to Memorial Union: 23 minutes
- Lot 60 to Camp Randall: 20 minutes
- 21 North Park Street to Memorial Union: 9 minutes
- Kohl Center to Memorial Union: 10 minutes
- Memorial Union to Camp Randall: 16 minutes
These are just a few examples to demonstrate the “walkability” of our campus. Check out Google Maps walking route planner for other walking time estimates. You can also try using GMap Pedometer, where you can track the exact distance of your commute, calories burned, and even elevation.
Be a safe pedestrian
As is the case with any mode of transportation, there are simple things you can do to be safe when commuting as a pedestrian.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Look where you’re going, establish eye contact with motorists and bicyclists, and if you listen to music, limit the volume.
- Always obey all traffic signs.
- Carry a cell phone with you in case of an emergency.
UWPD’s BadgerSAFE app turns your smartphone into a personal safety device. Anyone can download BadgerSAFE — students, staff, parents, and community members. You’ll receive crime alerts and safety info direct to your phone, you can connect with UWPD quickly via call or text, walk virtually with a trusted friend or family member, and get instant access to campus resources.
When traveling at night:
- Walk with a friend or group, and in well lit areas. The SAFEwalk Boundaries map also highlights the Lightway Walking Path.
- Call/text SAFEwalk at (608) 262-5000 for a walking team to join you on thee trip to your next destination.
- See more nighttime safety tips on the SAFEwalk page.
During severe weather:
- Make sure you’re wearing appropriate attire and footwear for conditions.
- Always travel with a friend or in a group.
- Pay attention to weather alerts, like Snow Action Day Alerts.