Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join the club?
The club is open to students, graduates and staff members of UCD. You can join the club through SISWeb -> Campus -> My Clubs and Societies -> Mountaineering. Please note that spaces in the club are limited.
How much does membership cost?
Membership is €20 for the full academic year.
I have never climbed before but would love to try. Can I climb with UCDMC?
Yes of course! We are happy to accept all skill levels. Just book into an intro session and we’ll show you the ropes (pun intended). Please note you must be a member of the club to attend any club event, including climbing sessions.
Do I need my own climbing gear?
Nope. We provide climbing harnesses, shoes, rope and belay plates. You should wear clothes that don’t constrict your movements and that you are happy to climb in.
What is bouldering?
A lot of fun! Bouldering is climbing close to the ground so no need for ropes or harnesses. There are crash mats on the ground in case you take a tumble. You do not need to pass a belay test to boulder with UCDMC.
What is top roping?
Also a lot of fun! Top roping involves a rope that is running through an anchor point at the top of the wall. This allows you to climb to greater heights safely. You will need to pass a belay test with us to top rope outside of intro or teaching and testing sessions.
What is a belay test?
This is a practical test you need to do before being able to use the top ropes at the UCD wall outside of teaching and testing sessions. Once you have passed your belay test you will be able to climb independently during training sessions. We’ll teach you all you need to know to pass during these sessions.
Do I need to come to all training sessions?
You can if you want, but absolutely no pressure to! The reason we have so many sessions is to get as many people involved as possible. Come as little or as often as you’d like.
Where is the climbing wall?
We’re at the back of the sports centre. Go in the main door and follow the signs for the climbing wall.
When can I climb?
Before you’ve passed your belay test you can book into intro or teaching and testing sessions from 5-6pm and 6-7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. You can also use the boulder wall during these times. Advanced sessions (for those who have passed a belay test) are from 12-2pm Mondays and Wednesdays, and 5-8pm Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Bookings for these sessions must be made in advance through SISWeb. Go to campus -> my clubs and societies -> mountaineering -> choose your session and book it.
I have never hiked before/get lost on campus. Can I still hike with UCDMC?
Yes absolutely! We do not require any experience but you will need a moderate level of fitness, as hikes can cover a fair distance and last all day. You will also need to provide your own gear.
What gear do I need to hike?
You must have hiking boots with ankle protection, a waterproof coat and waterproof trousers. These are non-negotiable as Irish hills are known for rain! You should also have a rucksack to carry your things, a lunch and water. We have a handy hike checklist: https://ucdmountaineering.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Sunday-hike-checklist.docx
Do I need to sign up for hikes?
Yes! If there is a hike running that weekend a link to sign up to the hike will go out with the weekly email. You cannot join the hike if you have not signed up in advance.
Where do we meet for the hikes?
A bus will pick us up from outside Spar next to the Montrose apartments and drop us back here in the evening. Here’s a link to the location: https://goo.gl/maps/ysu3Q9VCB1L3HYx59
Can I drive myself to the hike instead of getting the bus?
No – our hikes rarely finish in the same place they started, so you’d finish a day’s hike far far away from your car in the Wicklow wilderness.
What about trips?
Some of the highlights of our calendar involve adventures far and wide. We have club trips involving climbing and hiking all over Ireland and even further afield. More details about this year’s trips in due course so keep and eye and an ear out!