Elbrus is a crater of an extinct volcano on a side ridge of the Caucasus Mountains . Its double headed snow covered peak and, its glaciers (the longest of them is 8,2 km) are traditional objectives for many climbers. The twin peaks - the Western (5 621 m) and the Eastern (5 642 m) offer a variety of approaches. Tourists can stay at hotels situated in the Baksan river valley to the south of the top. Climbers can upraise to Alpine meadows using chair–lifts and cable-car, and reach the top that same day. The slopes are relatively gentle near the top which makes climbing easier and eliminates hooks and other specialized equipment. The high altitude (835 meters higher than Montblanc) and strong wind are the main difficulties climbers face on the way to the Elbrus top. Yet those who reached the top enjoy the right to be considered true climbers - which is one reason this route is so popular. |
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Elbrus Mountain (10 days\9 nights)
ITINERARY
Day 1 . Arrive in Mineralnye Vody airport.. Bus trip to the Baksan valley (4,5 h). Check in to the Volfram hotel (or enother comfortable privat hotel or Cheget hotel). Dinner.
Day 2 - Today we will have acclimatization hikes in the Terskol valley. There is a magnificient view of Mt. EIbrus . Ascent along the Terskol river through meadows (5 hours). Return to the hotel for a lunch. Afternoon is free.
Day 3 - Acclimatization hike to Cheget peak (3050m) will take us about 5 hours. It is so nice to relax at the "Ai" cafe (2750m.) where you can appreciate a panoramic view of the Baksan valley and the twin summits of Mt. EIbrus . Ascent of the Mt.Cheget top and then return to the hotel for a lunch.
Day 4 - After breakfast we'll have 15 minutes drive to the cable-car station Azau. Take two trams and a chairlift up to the Karabashi lift station (3750m). Check into the Barrels Refuge. The same day we'll do an acclimatization hike to 4200m. (where Priutt 11 Refuge was situated). Overnight in Barrels.
Day 5 - Early start for acclimatization hike to the Pastukhov Rocks (4800m). From everywhere on the slopes of Elbrus a panorama of the Central Caucasus spreads out before us. Overnight in Barrels.
Day 6 - Today we will make an attempt to reach the main target of the trip - summit of Mt. EIbrus . We have to start very early before dawn. Using headlamps we make our way to Pastukhov Rocks where we stop for a short rest and some drinks. After the saddle (5300m) is reached, the summit climb itself will start The reward is to stand on top of the highest mountain in Europe . Descent to the Barrels Refuge. Overnight there.
Day 7 - This is a backup day in case of bad weather.
Day 8 - Descend to the Volfram hotel.Accommodation at the hotel.
Day 9 - A free day to hike in the Baksan valley (mis day can also be used as an extra day for a summit attempt in case of inclement weather).
Day 10 - Drive to Mineralnye Vody. Fly to Moscow .
The programm might be correct -it depends on weather or health condition of participants.
Note:
The following equipment must be taken by participants:
- Rucksacks
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping mat
- Sport shoes
- Bath shoes
- Sport suit
- Sweater
- Rain jacket
- Light jacket
- Sun protect hat
- Woolen socks
- Sun glasses
- Down jacket
- Trekking boots and crampons
- Medical kit
- Private dishes, knife, torch, matches
Ascent conditions:
Elbrus is a volcanic massif to the north of the Caucasus Main Ridge. Normally the ascent is started from the Baksan Valley and is led on a south slope of the mountain. The trip is not technically difficult but requires crampons and ice axe. Systematic programme of acclimatization is essential prior to making the ascent. The climb itself may take between 6-10 hours; the descent another 3-5 hours. The main obstacles are high altitude, fog, wind and cold. Guiding this climb are experienced top Russian mountaineers. This nontechnical climb is a test of stamina, and with proper acclimatization and good weather, you can reach the summit.
• Contactos: 249532102 , 919290104
E.mail: gec.escalada@mail.pt