<p>Bascom makes a great ski hill for tray sledding in the winter...as do other hills off Observatory Dr.</p>
<p>I attribute my powerful legs to the many climbs of Bascom Hill up to the old SOB building. Even at my age few can walk at my brisk pace.</p>
<p>Hope it helps.</p>
<p>Thanks plaid freak. I am glad your and your son had a pleasant visit. </p>
<p>I did come across this news article about the rising crime rate in Madison on 2006 (largely because of a surge in robberies): <a href="http://badgerherald.com/news/2007/03/20/city_crime_rates_ris.php%5B/url%5D">http://badgerherald.com/news/2007/03/20/city_crime_rates_ris.php</a>. Nevertheless, my impression is the campus and surrounding areas are still very safe.</p>