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Wisconsin Adaptive Climbing

A project of Madison Central Lions Club

Several climbers, wearing helmets and harnesses, partway up a steep purple quartzite rock face while others assist near the base.
Disabled climbers Brett Maki and Chad Sobieck climb 'Leaning Tower' at Devil's Lake State Park

Wisconsin Adaptive Climbing, a project of Madison Central Lions Club, empowers participants to break barriers, embrace challenges, and experience the joy of inclusion in the rock climbing community.

Watch as blind climber John Heim rappels down a cliff for the first time.

Our Goals:

  1. Improve Physical Fitness: Climbing challenges muscles, coordination, and mobility, increasing strength and flexibility.
  2. Promote a Sense of Community: Our adaptive climbing program provides a space where individuals with disabilities can connect with peers and participate alongside non-disabled climbers in an environment that emphasizes collaboration and encouragement.
  3. Raise Awareness: Inclusive climbing events and programs educate the public about persons with disabilities and help to break down stereotypes.

For more information, contact John Heim, jheim@math.wisc.edu.
Or join our mailing list by clicking wisconsin-adaptive-climbing+subscribe@googlegroups.com or https://groups.google.com/group/wisconsin-adaptive-climbing.

2025 Wisconsin Adaptive Climbing Trip

  • Location: Devil's Lake State Park, S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, Wisconsin, 54452
  • Dates: Friday, June 27 to Sunday, June 29, 2025
  • Cost: Free to all participants

Climbers and volunteers gathered at Devil's Lake State Park from June 27 to 29 for our annual Wisconsin Adaptive Climbing weekend. Participants camped at the Upper Ice Age Campground, enjoyed meals together, and explored the park's iconic purple quartzite cliffs.

A young man wearing a blue helmet, sunglasses, and long-sleeve shirt, secured to a rock face with a harness and ropes. A young woman wearing a green helmet and climbing harness stands beside him on the ledge.
Kramer Endres, with side-climber Melia Zeaman, gives a thumbs-up during an ascent at Devil's Lake State Park.

Saturday brought intense summer heat, but our group toughed it out and climbed at The Bedroom and Leaning Tower. Experienced adaptive climbing instructors created a safe, supportive atmosphere, helping both new and returning participants challenge themselves and connect with the climbing community.

By Sunday, the forecasted high temperatures were in full force. After breakfast and packing up camp, we decided to give the rocks a break and headed to the beach at Devil's Lake to cool off — an ideal way to wrap up the weekend.

A young man with determination on his face signaling toward someone below. He is wearing a red shirt, a yellow helmet, and a full-body harness system.
Adaptive climber Moe Ewing tops out of a challenging climb.

This free, inclusive event would not have been possible without our dedicated volunteers, anchor setters, and helpers who made the climbing accessible for everyone. We're already looking forward to next year's adventure!

2026 Wisconsin Adaptive Climbing Trip

  • Location: Devil's Lake State Park
  • Date: June 5–7, 2026 (tentative)
  • Cost: Free to all participants
A young man wearing a climbing helmet and harness, suspended from ropes in front of a purple quartzite cliff.
Disabled climber Chad Donahue rappels on 'The Bedroom' at Devil's Lake State Park in June 2024

Join us in 2026 at Devil's Lake State Park for a free, inclusive weekend of outdoor adventure! Challenge yourself on the park's iconic purple quartzite cliffs with the guidance of experienced adaptive climbing instructors in a safe and supportive environment.

Camping at the Upper Ice Age Campground, meals, and all necessary climbing and camping gear are provided. Whether you're a climber with a disability or a volunteer helper, you'll be part of a welcoming, empowering community.

Registration opens in spring 2026 — watch this page for details or contact John Heim, jheim@math.wisc.edu for more information.

Wisconsin Adaptive Climbing In the News

Adaptive Climbing Programs In Wisconsin

Green Bay

Odyssey Climbing + Fitness

Madison

Boulders Climbing Gym

  • Adaptive climbing clinic held on the last Sunday of each month, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM.
  • 3964 Commercial Ave, Madison, WI 53714
  • 608-244-8100
  • https://www.bouldersgym.com

Milwaukee

Marquette University Adaptive Abilities Club

Adventure Rock