Duck
ParkWisconsin, US
Bascom Hill
Bascom Hill is the historic and iconic heart of the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.
About
Bascom Hill is the historic and iconic heart of the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. This sweeping, tree-lined glacial drumlin offers stunning campus vistas and stands as a powerful symbol of academic pride and tradition. It connects the bustling State Street to the majestic Bascom Hall, serving as a central gathering place and a visual anchor for the university.
Crowned by the grand Bascom Hall, the university's main administration building, the hill is famously home to the beloved Abraham Lincoln statue, a frequent photo-op spot for students and visitors alike. Flanking the expansive lawns are the university's oldest structures, North Hall (built 1851) and South Hall (built 1855), each showcasing the diverse architectural evolution from the mid-19th century. The sloping green spaces are vibrant with student life, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation, study, and social interaction.
Visiting Bascom Hill offers a unique blend of history, education, and natural beauty, making it a truly memorable destination. It's a place where iconic traditions come alive, from the spirited "Battle for Bascom" snowball fights in winter to the charming "Fill the Hill" event adorned with pink flamingos. The panoramic views stretching from the campus to the Wisconsin State Capitol are simply breathtaking, ensuring countless photo opportunities and a lasting impression of the Badger spirit. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.
and architecture enthusiasts * Photography and scenic views * Casual strolls and outdoor relaxation * Families visiting the campus
What to do here
Walk the historic paths and enjoy the expansive green lawns.
* Pose for photos with the Abraham Lincoln statue; rubbing his toe is a tradition for good luck.
* Admire the diverse architecture of the surrounding historic campus buildings.
* Relax on the grass, enjoy a picnic, or people-watch.
Seasonal info
Spring & Fall: Enjoy vibrant foliage in autumn and budding greenery in spring. These seasons often host events like the "Fill the Hill" flamingo display.
Summer: The lawns are lush and green, perfect for outdoor relaxation and campus tours.
Winter: Experience a picturesque snow-covered landscape. Students often engage in sledding and the spirited "Battle for Bascom" snowball fight.
Accessibility
The climb up Bascom Hill is steep and can be challenging for some. However, accessible routes with ramps and elevators are available for Bascom Hall itself. UW-Madison is dedicated to improving campus accessibility, and visitors needing accommodations can find resources through the university's accessibility services.
Don't miss
1
Bascom Hall
The stately building at the summit, serving as the university's administrative hub.
2
Abraham Lincoln Statue
A must-see iconic statue, known for student traditions and photo opportunities.
3
North Hall & South Hall
The university's two oldest buildings, steeped in history and architectural charm.
4
Panoramic Views
Capture stunning vistas of the UW-Madison campus, State Street, and the distant Wisconsin State Capitol from the hill's peak.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
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Good to know before you go
Wear comfortable shoes
** The hill is notably steep, so comfortable footwear is highly recommended for the climb.
Plan your visit for good light
Early mornings or late afternoons in spring or fall often provide the best lighting for photography and a pleasant experience.
Utilize campus transport
If the climb seems daunting, Madison Metro Transit's Route 80 bus often provides service that can take you closer to the top of Bascom Hill.
Engage with traditions
Check the UW-Madison events calendar for seasonal happenings like "Fill the Hill" in October, which transforms the hill into a sea of pink flamingos.
Capture the panorama
Don't forget to take photos from the summit, showcasing the expansive campus, State Street, and the Wisconsin State Capitol.
Explore historic buildings
Take time to observe the architecture of North Hall, South Hall, Music Hall, and Science Hall, which are part of the historic district surrounding the hill.
Frequently asked questions
- The Abraham Lincoln statue is an iconic symbol of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It commemorates Lincoln's role in the Morrill Land-Grant Act of 1862, which provided federal land to support state universities like UW-Madison. It's also a beloved tradition for graduating students to take photos with it, often sitting on his lap, though the university discourages this due to wear and tear.
- While the hill itself is a steep climb, making it challenging, accessible routes exist for Bascom Hall at the top, which include ramps and elevators. UW-Madison is committed to creating an accessible environment, and visitors can find more information on their accessibility resources. The campus bus system (e.g., Route 80) can also take visitors to the top.
- Bascom Hill is known for several unique traditions, including the annual "Battle for Bascom" snowball fight between dorm residents in winter and the "Fill the Hill" event in fall, where thousands of pink flamingos cover the lawn as a fundraising initiative. Students also rub Abraham Lincoln's toe for good luck before final exams or other important events.
Recent snaps at this place
Jun 6, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Mason Holum, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 6, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Mason Holum, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 6, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Mason Holum, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 6, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Mason Holum, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 6, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Mason Holum, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
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