Elbrus is located in the Caucasus. Where is Mount Elbrus located? Brief history of ascents

Mount Elbrus (Caucasus, Russia) - detailed description, location, reviews, photos and videos.

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Since school age, each of us remembers the majestic two-headed Elbrus, if not from geography textbooks, then from literature textbooks. After all, the great Lermontov, having arrived in the Caucasus against his will, was truly fascinated by it, fell in love with all his heart and sang it not only in poetry, but also in paint. His paintings depicting Elbrus, Beshtau, gorges and mountain ranges of the Caucasus perfectly convey the beauty and special, harsh, ancient and breathtaking poetics of these places.

Elbrus occupies a special place in the Greater Caucasus system. This is the highest mountain range of the Side Range of the Caucasus Mountains. Geologists have determined that Elbrus is the cone of an extinct volcano. Its western peak reaches a height of 5642 m, and its eastern one - 5621 m; they are separated by a deep saddle, which is also a five-thousander, its height is 5325 m.

Since Elbrus is very high, it is always covered with a cap of firn and ice, from which 54 glaciers descend in different directions, the largest of which are Bolshoy Azau, Irik and Terskol.

Climbing Elbrus

Naturally, even in those days when mountains were the focus of sporting interests only for climbers, and not at all for skiers and snowboarders, attempts were made to conquer Elbrus. The eastern peak in 1829 was first reached by the Kabardian K. Khashirov, a guide of the Russian scientific expedition, and the western peak in 1874 by English athletes led by F. Grove and the Kabardian guide A. Sottaev, a participant, by the way, in the first ascent of the Russian expedition.

During the years of Soviet power, ascents in the Elbrus region became very popular, they turned into massive “alpiniads”, the largest of which in 1967 involved no less than 2,400 climbers.

At an altitude of 4600-4700 m there are the rocks of Pastukhov, a Russian military topographer who was the first to conquer both the Eastern and Western peaks of Elbrus. Above these rocks in winter there is an ice field. From an altitude of 5000 m, the “oblique shelf” begins, as climbers call it, a fairly gently sloping plane rising upward. Traditionally, the route to climb any of the peaks of Elbrus passes through its saddle. From there it is about 300 m to both peaks.

From the north side mountain range The infrastructure is still poorly developed; there are only a few huts for climbers, which are used by both tourists and emergency workers. As a rule, ascents to the Eastern peak are made from the northern side; the route passes through the Lenz rocks (from 4600 to 5200 m).

During the years of Soviet power, ascents in the Elbrus region became very popular; they turned into massive “alpiniads”, the largest of which in 1967 involved 2,400 climbers.

Skiing

In our country, the Elbrus region has always been and remains one of the most popular centers of skiing and tourism. The most visited slope of the Elbrus region is Mount Cheget, which is well equipped with both chairlifts and cable-pendulum lifts. The trails here are of varying degrees of difficulty; anyone, from aces to beginners, will find a trail on Cheget that suits their abilities. Cheget also has a fairly attractive selection of entertainment for tourists. There are cafes and restaurants on the slope, and there are equipment rental centers. From the top of the mountain there is a wonderful view of the double-headed Elbrus.

Elbrus clones

Camp sites

As for Elbrus itself, for all its severity and external inaccessibility, which seemingly does not imply the presence of a person, there is also a certain tourist infrastructure here. It is concentrated mainly on the southern slopes of the mountain range, where the pendulum chairlift is located cable car, the height of which is 3750 m. Here you will be greeted by the Barrels shelter, which contains more than ten six-bed insulated residential trailers and a kitchen. This place serves as a launching pad for modern athletes climbing Elbrus. There is a new, more modern, shelter “Liprus”, opened in 2013. It accommodates 48 people and is located at an altitude of 3912 m. The highest mountain hotel in the Elbrus region is the “Shelter of Eleven”, its main building burned down in the 90s of the 20th century, but in Currently, a new building has been built on the basis of the boiler room of the former hotel. In addition, the shelter has several 12-person trailers and a kitchen. In the evenings, a diesel generator is organized to supply electricity to the trailers.

The saddle of Elbrus, as a starting point for all climbers, no matter which peak they strive to reach, has long needed its own shelter, since the higher the climbers rise, the more difficult it is for them to go every centimeter of the way. Therefore, a shelter at an altitude of 5300 m is really necessary. Since 2007, work has been underway on its construction. The shelter will be a hemisphere with a diameter of 6.7 m, installed on a foundation. By 2009, the dome structures were made and construction work began. However, it was not possible to open the shelter as planned - 2010; work is currently ongoing.

How to get there: by plane to Kislovodsk, Nalchik or Cherkessk, then by bus, taxi or rented car.

The two peaks crowning the cone-shaped volcano are separated by a saddle, the height of which is 5300 m. The peaks of Elbrus are two independent volcanoes formed on an ancient volcanic base. The height of the young cone, located in the east, is 5621 m. This volcano retained the classic cone shape with a clearly defined crater. The height of the maximum point of Elbrus - the western peak - reaches 5642 m. This volcano has enough ancient history, which was reflected in the condition of its upper part - it was partially destroyed by a vertical fault.

Elbrus is a saddle-shaped cone of a volcano that was last active in 50 AD. e. It was most active around 225 thousand, then 110-70 thousand and less than 30 thousand years ago. The mountain, formed about a million years ago, consists of alternating layers of lava, ash and tuff.
The slopes of Elbrus are mostly gentle, but starting from a height of 4000 meters, the average angle of inclination reaches 35 degrees. The northern and western slopes are strewn with steep rocky areas up to 700 meters high. The eastern and southern ones are more gentle and even.

Flowers on the southern slope of Elbrus:

At an altitude of more than 3,500 meters, the volcano is covered with stone placers, rocks and glaciers. The number of the latter is about 70 pieces, and there are total area equal to 134.5 km². The most famous glaciers of Elbrus: Terskop, Big and Small Azau. The streams erupting from them, connecting, create the three main rivers of the region - Baksanu, Kuban and Malka. The glacier-free surface is covered with moraines. A huge cap of ice and snow retains the picturesque shape of the Kazakhstan volcano all year round. It is because of this snow cap that Elbrus is called Little Antarctica.

The first written mention of the double-peaked volcano can be found in the “Book of Victories,” written by the Persian historian and poet, Sharaf ad-Din Yazdi. It tells about the Central Asian conqueror Tamerlane, who during his military campaigns climbed to the top of Elbrus to pray.

The peoples of the Caucasus and the Middle East composed a large number of songs and legends about Elbrus. One of the legends says that used to be a mountain was one-humped. At its top lived the magical bird Simurgh, who bestowed happiness and prosperity on the mountain people who inhabited the valleys of the mountain gorges. This idyll lasted for many centuries, until the desire to seize the bird’s heavenly throne led to its possession by two greedy people. Their fierce struggle was stopped by higher powers: blinding lightning cut the sky, terrible thunder erupted and Elbrus split in two, spewing out streams of fire that incinerated everything in its path. After such a terrible fight, the magical bird Simurgh hid deep underground, upset by the ingratitude and greed of people.
According to research by scientists, Elbrus has not reminded of itself for quite a long time, but despite this, the current level of activity does not give specialists a reason to attribute it to extinct volcanoes, now he has the status of "sleeping". The volcano is indeed quite active in external and internal activities. In its depths there are still hot masses that heat the local “Hot Narzans” - springs saturated with mineral salts and carbon dioxide, the temperature of which reaches +52°C and +60ºC. The life of many begins in the depths of a volcano famous springs medical resorts of Kislovodsk, Pyatigorsk and the entire Caucasian Mineral Waters region.
The climate on Elbrus is characterized by severity, making it similar to the Arctic regions. The average temperature in the warmest month of the year does not rise above -1.4°C. There is quite a lot of precipitation here, but it is mainly represented only in the form of snow.
Around the two-headed giant are located the most beautiful peaks of the Caucasus: Nakra-Tau, Ushba, Donguz-Orun.
The first time a person managed to reach the eastern (lower) peak of the volcano was on July 22, 1829. This was done by the conductor of the Russian scientific expedition, a Kabardian by nationality, Kilar Khashirov. The highest peak of Elbrus (western) was conquered by a team of climbers led by Florence Grove in 1874. The first to reach both peaks was the Balkar hunter and shepherd Ahiya Sottaev. During the period of his long life, he conquered Elbrus nine times: he made the first ascent at the age of over forty, and the last in 1909, when he was 121 years old.

At the top of Elbrus:

View from the top of Elbrus:

The study of Elbrus by Russian scientists began actively in the 19th century. Academician V.K. Vishnevsky in 1913 was the first to determine the height and location of the volcano. In addition to its status as a unique natural attraction, the famous Caucasian peak is also an important scientific base. Even before the war, the first experiments in the Soviet Union with cosmic rays, and today the highest geophysical laboratory is located there.
Territory of the Elbrus region - major center tourism and skiing. The bulk of the guests are fans of winter sports, including extreme sports, which are very popular in these mountains. In addition to the usual snowboards, sleds and freeride, a new entertainment was organized for thrill seekers, which was an ascent to the top of Elbrus by helicopter and subsequent descent from the mountain on skis. For more conservative skiers, there are cable cars with an average capacity of 2,400 people per hour.

Elbrus – highest peak Russia. It is located in the North Caucasus, where the border between Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia passes. Immediate big cities– Mineralnye Vody, Nalchik, Pyatigorsk. Elbrus is considered a standard of natural beauty and a symbol of a healthy lifestyle. Recently, the legendary peak became a laureate of the “7 Wonders of Russia” competition.

Anatomy of Elbrus

From the outside, Elbrus resembles a Bactrian camel, since it has two peaks at once. One is only two dozen meters higher than the other. The western one reaches a height of 5642 m. The eastern one is slightly lower - 5621 m. From a distance it seems that they are located very close to each other. In fact, there is almost a kilometer and a half between them. The peaks are separated by the so-called Elbrus saddle. The average steepness of the rocks is 350.

There is an honorary world ranking called the “Seven Summits”. It includes the highest mountains from six parts of the world. Elbrus is the leader in Europe. Mont Blanc takes second place. He lags behind his Caucasian competitor by as much as 832 m! The nuance is that there are several methods for determining the border between Europe and Asia. Elbrus is considered “European” if it is carried out along the Greater Caucasus Range. Due to uncertainty, both peaks – Elbrus and Mont Blanc – were included in the rating.

Photo: Once upon a time fiery lava flowed along the slopes of Elbrus

From a geological point of view, Elbrus is a typical stratovolcano, which is characterized by a conical shape. Its thickness consists of layers of solidified lava and volcanic ash. Three million years ago, real hell reigned in these places. In total, Elbrus erupted for almost 250 thousand years! Looking at the peaceful peak today, it’s hard to believe. The last burst of volcanic activity occurred about 80 thousand years ago. By human standards this is a huge period, but by geological standards it is an instant. Some scientists believe that the volcano is still awaiting a surge in activity.

There is no bad weather

The Elbrus region is characterized by sudden changes in weather. On average, cycles last about a week. Good weather gives way to bad weather, then idyll reigns again. In the first half of summer, rain is a frequent visitor. At an altitude of up to 2000 m, the maximum temperature can reach +35. The average temperature is much lower. It decreases further with height. However, this is enough to slightly melt the glaciers. They give rise to such large rivers as the Kuban, Malka and Baksan.

Autumn in the mountains begins in the second half of August, and winter at an altitude of more than 2000 m can come as early as October. The average January temperature is -12, but drops sharply with altitude. Because of this, Elbrus is called “Little Antarctica”. For every 200 m of ascent, the temperature decreases by one degree. In winter there is severe frost at the top. The temperature can drop to -40, and the wind speed, on the contrary, can increase to 40 m/sec! Such harsh conditions prevail at altitudes above 4000 m.

Most snow falls on the southern slopes. The northern side is less snowy. The average thickness of snow cover is 0.8 meters. The beginning of spring in the mountains occurs in the first half of May. During this period, at an altitude of up to 3000 m, the snow actively melts and comes down in the form of wet avalanches. The bright sun poses a danger all year round. To save yourself from an overdose of ultraviolet radiation, you need to have a protective cream and dark glasses.

Photo: Most snow falls on the southern slopes

Climatic conditions determine the specifics of the fauna and flora of the Elbrus region. The mountains are home to Caucasian aurochs, chamois, and roe deer. There are wild boars at the foot. If you're lucky, you might see yaks on the slopes. They tried to breed them artificially, but the experiment was unsuccessful. In the forests there are moose, jackals, wolves, and foxes. Belt alpine meadows Caucasian black grouse, mountain turkey, stone partridge, as well as feathered predators - black vulture, eaglet, golden eagle and others have taken a fancy. You should be wary of vipers, although the mountaineers claim that meeting one is lucky!

Why Elbrus?

Names are given by people, so Elbrus remained nameless for a long time after its birthday. With the advent of people, the mountain received several names at once. This is due to the fact that they were invented by representatives of different tribes who did not have writing and did not communicate with each other. The Kabardino-Balkarians called it “Mingi tau” - “Eternal Mountain”. In Kumyk, her name sounded like “Askhar-tau” - “Snowy Mountain of Ases”. The Adyghe people called it “Kuskhemakha” - “Mountain that brings happiness.”

By official version the word "Elbrus" comes from the Persian "al-borji", which means "heaving". At least on the territory of modern Iran there is a mountain called Elborz. In the Ossetian language there is the word “albors” - high mountain. Georgians call “snow mane” “yalbuz”. Apparently, over time the names merged and transformed. This is how the “arithmetic mean” Elbrus appeared.

Photo: Elbrus region - the territory of traditions and legends

As with any cult place, many legends are associated with Elbrus. Some of them explain the presence of two peaks. It is believed, for example, that they owe their appearance to Noah, who, during the Flood, touched the top with his ark and split it in two. To repair the damaged ship, he tried to land on the mountain, but was unable to do so. Then Noah cursed her, wishing eternal winter. Since then, the two peaks of Elbrus have always been covered with ice and snow.

Brief history of ascents

Just as a prospector dreams of finding the largest nugget, climbers have always dreamed of conquering Elbrus. And they not only dreamed, but also conquered. Scientists became the pioneers. This happened in July 1829. Then mountain peak stormed by such famous personalities as the creator of the St. Petersburg geophysical observatory Adolf Kupfer and physicist Emilius Lenz. Even the botanist Karl Meyer and the artist Joseph Bernardazzi became climbers for a while!

The expedition was led by General George Emmanuel. Then he commanded the Caucasian fortified area. The event was purely scientific in nature. The ascent was supported by 650 soldiers and 350 Cossacks. Scientists, guides and 20 Cossacks took part directly in the assault on Elbrus. Only four reached the Eastern peak. And the Western Peak was first climbed only in 1874.

Photo: General George Emmanuel

Forty years later, Elbrus submitted to the English climbers. Then came the era of records. The German Merzbacher and the Austrian Purtscheller climbed to the top in just eight hours! In 1925, the first woman reached the summit. Since the middle of the 20th century, climbers have become widespread. And now the folk trail does not overgrow here. Elbrus beckons and attracts like a huge magnet.

There have been legendary cases in the history of conquests. So in 1974, three UAZ-469 SUVs rose to a height of 4200 meters! This was done without the help of winches. Since the air at such a height is very thin, the engines did not work at full capacity. Cars often got stuck in the snow. They had to be dug out with shovels. However, people and cars survived. A unique “ascent” has taken place!

Elbrus for skiers

If there are slopes and snow, then there is ski resorts. The Elbrus region is no exception in this regard. The Azau and Cheget ski resorts are located in the Elbrus region of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, 186 km from Mineralnye Vody. The Azau ski area is suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. "Cheget" is more suitable for advanced "users".

The skiing season in the Elbrus region lasts from October to May. The high season is from February to April. In spring, people not only ski on the slopes, but also sunbathe. Skating on the glaciers is possible all year round.

Photo: The ski season lasts from October to May

On the slopes of “Azau” there are 3 routes: “Polyana Azau - Krugozor” (length - 5100 m, difficult), “Krugozor - Mir” (5110 m, medium), “Mir - Gara-Bashi” (2000 m, easy). The stations are located at altitudes from 2350 to 3847 m. It is possible to go higher, but for this you will have to use a snowcat. The elevation difference on the slopes is from 347 to 650 m. The total length of the slopes is 12.2 km, and the total elevation difference is 1497 m. The width of the slopes is from 60 to 80 m. The artificial snowmaking system allows you to ski up to 180 days a year.

The capacity of the lifts to the Mir station is 2400 people/hour, to Gara-Bashi – 1400 people/hour. From the Krugozor station you can clearly see the Baksan Valley. Above you will find a panorama of the Greater Caucasus Range. And from the maximum point - glaciers. The Gara-Bashi station “floats” above the clouds and is considered the highest in Europe. Lift operating hours are from 9:00 to 17:00. Get up until 16:00.

There are eight types of ski passes on sale - from a one-time lift to a six-day pass. Children under 6 years old have free entry to the ski lifts. On weekends, the cost of a ski pass increases by an average of 20%. In the period from 22.05 to 01.12, summer tariffs apply, providing only one-time descent and ascent. At this time, not skiers, but climbers climb the mountains.

“Cheget” has more difficult conditions for skiing. Local trails are more difficult than many European ones. In 1963, skiers went up for the first time on a chairlift. Now there are 15 tracks on Cheget. They are laid at altitudes from 2100 to 3050 m. Their total length reaches 20 km. There are luxurious conditions for snowboarders and freeriders. The easiest route is at the top of the slope.

There are three lines of the cable car at Cheget. Single- and double-chair lifts operate from “Chegetskaya Polyana” to the “Cheget-2” station (2100-2750 m). You can get to the Cheget-3 station (2750-3000 m) by single-chair or drag lift. Up to the highest point (3070 m), only the rope tow operates. The resort offers two ski pass options - one-time and one-day. At the “Chegen Glade”, in close proximity from the ski lifts, there are several hotels.

The resorts have shops that sell everything you need for skiing. alpine skiing and snowboarding. Equipment rental is available. Beginners can hire an instructor. Excursions are organized for tourists. The main attractions are the Narzan Valley, Chegem waterfalls, the Bezengi glacier, Blue Lake, "Maiden's Braids" waterfall, national park"Elbrus region".

Currently, in the Elbrus region there are more than 70 accommodation sites, including mountain camps, guest houses, boarding houses and hotels. Accommodation costs may vary greatly depending on the services provided. In addition to hotels, you can stay in the private sector in the villages of Terskol, Baidaevo, Tegenekli, Elbrus, Neutrino. The price of housing falls in proportion to the distance from the ski lifts.

Photo: There are more than 70 accommodation places in the Elbrus region

Climbing routes

For beginners, climbing Elbrus along the southern slope is optimal. The route starts at Polyana Azau. The lift takes tourists to the Gara-Bashi station, located at an altitude of 3847 m, in one hour. Anyone can climb to the Oblique Shelf at an altitude of 5100 m by snowcat. For those who want to test themselves, it is better to overcome this stage on their own, without the use of technical means.

The southern route passes by Shelter 11 (4130 m) and Pastukhov Rocks (4700 m), which are named after the famous Russian climber Andrei Pastukhov. Next you will have to overcome the Col at an altitude of 5300 m. This part of the route is quite simple. But at the final stage you will have to work hard. To conquer Elbrus, you need to overcome a fairly steep climb. But the view from Western peak The opening is amazing!

The northern slope of the mountain is considered more difficult. The route is designed for trained climbers. Climbing to the top along the classic path of pioneers is not an easy task. This route is most often used to conquer the Eastern Peak. The glacier begins at an altitude of 3800 m, so you will need crampons here. At the Lenz Rocks at an altitude of 4800 m you will have to stop for a rest to acclimatize. Having gained strength and gotten used to the thin air, you can storm the summit.

On the eastern side of Elbrus there is a route along the Achkeryakol lava flow. This is a rather long and difficult climbing option. The route goes through Irik-Chat (3667 m) - one of the most beautiful passes in the Elbrus region. From here you have an excellent view of the lava flow and the Jikauchenquez ice plateau. The object of conquest is the Western Peak.

The name “Wild West” best suits the western slope of Elbrus. This is an option for extreme sports enthusiasts. Civilization has bypassed these places - there are no snowcats or ski lifts here. It is chosen by tourists in good physical shape, since all equipment from start to finish will have to be carried in backpacks. The victory is celebrated on the Western Peak.

For those who climb, there are shelters in the mountains. This is the name for places where you can hide from bad weather, relax, and spend the night. The first shelter on Elbrus appeared in 1909 at an altitude of 3200 m. It could accommodate only five people. In 1932, the “Shelter of the Eleven” appeared at an altitude of 4200 meters. It could already accommodate 40 people. Then the Saddle and Shelter of Nine shelters opened. They are still in effect today.

Of the new shelters, “Bochki” should be noted. A dozen six-bed cylindrical houses are located near the Gara-Bashi station at an altitude of 3847 m. This is the most popular starting point for climbers before the assault on Elbrus. Nearby are the Hassan shelter for 12 people and the Kotelnaya shelter, which accommodates up to 50 people. On the southern side there are shelters Shuvalova, “Maria” and “Esen”.

“LeapRus” is considered the highest mountain comfortable shelter. It is located on the southern slope at an altitude of 3900 m and can accommodate 48 people. It has all the delights of civilization - heating, hot water and lighting. Electricity for tourists is provided by solar panels.

Photo: High-level mountain hotel

Our tourist club offers the following programs for climbing Elbrus:

• Climbing with tents from the north side to the eastern peak

How to get there

By plane you can get to Mineralnye Vody or Nalchik. From there, take a bus or taxi to Terskol, a village in Kabardino-Balkaria. It is considered a resort center. Organized tourists order transfers through travel agencies. The trip from Nalchik will take about 3 hours, from Mineralnye Vody - 4 hours.

There are railway stations in Nalchik, Pyatigorsk, Mineralnye Vody and Prokhladny. There is a daily train between Moscow and Nalchik. By train Moscow - Kislovodsk you will get to Mineralnye Vody or Pyatigorsk, and by train Moscow - Vladikavkaz - to Prokhladnaya station.

To major settlements The Elbrus region is walking intercity buses. In their cars, tourists travel to Elbrus through Krasnodar or Rostov-on-Don.

One of the “Seven Summits” of the world and Europe, the birthplace of Russian mountaineering, Mount Elbrus is a Mecca for skiers, freeriders, and athletes who storm the slopes. With proper physical training and appropriate equipment, the mountain giant can be conquered by almost everyone. It fills the rivers of the North Caucasus with life-giving melt water.

Location of Mount Elbrus

In the area where the border of the Karachay-Cherkess and Kabardino-Balkarian republics is located, the “mountain of a thousand mountains” rises. This is what Elbrus is called in the Karachay-Balkar language. Geographical coordinates localities:

• latitude and longitude: 43°20′45″ N. latitude, 42°26′55″ e. d.;
• The Western and Eastern peaks reach a height of 5642 and 5621 m above sea level.

The peaks are located at a distance of three kilometers from each other. Below between them, at an altitude of 5416 m, there is a saddle, from where the final section of the ascent is overcome.

Characteristics of natural conditions

The age of the formed giant is more than 1 million years. It used to be an erupting volcano. His condition is currently unknown. Sources heated to +60 °C mineral waters, gushing from the rocks, indicate a temporarily dormant volcano. The last eruption was in 50 AD. e.

The mountain is characterized by a harsh climate. In winter, temperatures range from -10 °C at the bottom to -25 °C at 2500 m, at the tops up to -40 °C. Heavy snowfalls are a common occurrence on Elbrus.

In summer, below an altitude of 2500 m, the air heats up to +10 °C. At 4200 m the July temperature is below 0 °C. The weather here is unstable: often a sunny, quiet day suddenly gives way to bad weather with snow and wind. The highest mountain in Russia shines dazzlingly in sunny days. In bad weather, it is shrouded in a gloomy fog of torn clouds.

The mountainous terrain of the Elbrus region - gorges, stone deposits, glacial streams, cascades of waterfalls. After the 3500 m mark on Mount Elbrus, there are glacial carts with lakes, slopes with a dangerous moraine, and many moving stones. The total area of ​​glacial formations is 145 km².

At 5500 m, the atmospheric pressure is 380 mmHg, half that on the ground.

Briefly about the history of the conquest

The first Russian scientific expedition to Elbrus was organized in 1829. The participants did not reach the summit; only the guide conquered it. 45 years later, a group of Englishmen, with the help of a guide, climbed the western peak of the highest mountain in Europe. Topographic map The area was first developed by the Russian military explorer Pastukhov, who climbed both peaks unaccompanied. During the years of Soviet power, the country developed sport mountaineering; conquering the peaks of the Caucasus was a matter of prestige.

The snowy, cold Mount Elbrus does not scare away enthusiasts. They spend their holidays not on crowded beaches, but on the way to a deserted peak to become stronger and more resilient. There is a well-known story about the Balkarian Akhie Sattayev, who made 9 ascents to the peaks, the last time at the age of 121.

Infrastructure, skiing

The complex of amenities and services is adequately developed only on the southern slope of Elbrus, where there are 12 km long cable cars, hotels, and landing pads for helicopters. The routes on the south side are minimally fenced and almost do not interfere with free movement. Lifts are used on busy routes. The total length of the slopes is 35 km. There are trails for both experienced athletes and beginners.

There is a ski school and rental of sports equipment. Climbing the slopes by snowcats (high-altitude taxis) is organized. Freeriders are lowered by helicopter onto the virgin slopes, from where they rush down at great speed.

The skiing season begins in mid-November and lasts until April. Sometimes snow lies densely on the slopes of the highest Mount Elbrus until May. Some areas are available to skiers all year round. Dombay (1600–3050 m) is the most attractive and prestigious Russian ski resort. Most skiers prefer the Cheget slopes, which rival European ski slopes. Co observation deck tourists enjoy the views of the surrounding nature, relax in the iconic cafe “Ai”, where the bard Yuri Vizbor often visited.

Tourists are offered glider flights and ice rock climbing. Snowcats will be raised to high slopes to show the panorama of the Caucasus. Photos and pictures of the area convey the austere beauty of the surrounding landscape. At the foot of the mountain, tourists are greeted by cafes, restaurants, billiard parlors, and saunas.

Description of the features of mountaineering

Even a few days in a mountain climate is a difficult test for an unprepared person. For beginners, it is advisable to begin the difficult journey to the top in mid-summer from the southern slope under the guidance of an experienced guide. Compliance with acclimatization deadlines and the availability of necessary equipment are mandatory. The climbing season lasts from May to September, sometimes until early October.

On Elbrus, routes in different directions have been developed. From the south, tourists travel part of the way up by cable car. With further ascent, acclimatization trips to closer heights are organized.

For recreation, shelters on glaciers are organized, for example, insulated shelter cars “Bochki” (3750 m) or the comfortable hotel “Liprus” (3912 m). Rest in the high-mountain hotel “Priyut 11” (4100 m) and acclimatization trips to the Pastukhov rocks (4700 m) strengthen the body and prepare tourists for the decisive push to the top.

Northern route more difficult than the southern one, it is rocky, longer in time. Runs to eastern peak through the Lenz rocks (4600–5200 m). There is almost no service here, but adrenaline, extreme sports, and unique Caucasian landscapes without traces of civilization are provided. A stop is made at the Northern Shelter. The descent runs through the “stone mushrooms” and hot springs of the Djily-Su tract (2500 m) with a narzan pit, which is used in the summer as a bathtub.

The picturesque climb along the Akcheryakol lava flow is only accessible to physically strong athletes.

Excursion to Mount Elbrus

Professional guides and companies provide services to tourists who want to safely climb to the peaks and provide them with the necessary information. Participants in the climb should remember that Mount Elbrus presents surprises in the form of unpleasant natural phenomena:

• bad weather - cold, snow, wind, poor visibility;
• thin air, lack of oxygen;
• harmful ultraviolet radiation;
• presence of sulfur dioxide gases.

A tourist is expected hiking with a heavy backpack, spending the night in cold tents, lack of amenities. The ability to use an ice ax, walk together on an ice field, and obey discipline will be useful. It is necessary to objectively assess strength and health in order to avoid unforeseen circumstances.

How to get there

Stavropol resorts have regular rail and air connections with Russian cities. From here, regular buses run to the foothill region, minibuses, car rental is offered. Excursion groups are provided with transfer.

A train runs daily to Nalchik from Moscow's Kazansky railway station. Travel time is about 34 hours. From St. Petersburg the train goes only to Mineralnye Vody.

Regular buses from Moscow go to Nalchik and Mineralnye Vody, connected by bus service to the foothills.

Flights from Moscow operate to Nalchik and Mineralnye Vody, and from St. Petersburg to Nalchik - with a transfer.

highest mountain Europe, the highest volcanic peak in Eurasia and simply one of the “7 Wonders of Russia” - meet Elbrus.

The first scientific studies of this peak began in the 19th century, although the exact height and location were determined only in 1913 after calculations by Academician Vishnevsky. The first expedition, the goal of which was to reach the top of this volcano, was organized in 1829. It included several eminent scientists, for example, the founder of the St. Petersburg geophysical laboratory Adolf Kupfer, physicist Emilius Lenz, and the famous zoologist Eduard Minetrier.

The expedition was accompanied by a thousand-strong detachment of Cossacks led by General George Emmanuel. It was he who became the author of the memorial inscription carved on a rock at an altitude of 2400m. The general himself chose to remain at this height and watched the ascent from the camp.

Continuing the ascent, the expedition spent the night at an altitude of 3000. Only part of the group, continuing the ascent, reached the mark of 4800 m, where a memorial sign and the number 1829 were carved. This mark was subsequently discovered during the Soviet expedition of 1949. Only five people rose above it, and three reached the saddle - academician Lenz, Cossack Lysenkov and Kabardian Killar. Look what Mount Elbrus looks like in the photo - two peaks with an impressive saddle between them. This is where the most persistent members of the expedition arrived.

Further ascent was impossible due to the heavily softened snow. However, the Kabardian, being adapted to mountain conditions, continued to climb and was able to reach the top. It was he who became the first person to climb Elbrus. More precisely, to one of the almost equal (the difference is only 21 m) peaks.

The first person to conquer both peaks was the Balkarian guide Ahiya Sottaev. He made his first ascent when he was over forty. After that, he climbed Elbrus eight more times, and the last time he did it at the age of one hundred and twenty-one! Here it is, the famous Caucasian health and longevity. Among other things, Sottaev twice served as a guide for English expeditions to Elbrus.

Where is Elbrus

The Caucasus is the center of a large number of peaks, whose heights reach far beyond 3000 meters above sea level. But when they remember Caucasus Mountains, Elbrus comes to mind first. And How interesting object for exploration, both as the highest point in Europe and as a place of pilgrimage for climbers from all over the world. Where Elbrus is located, that is, between Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia, many peoples live, and each of them has created many beautiful legends about it. There is also no consensus on the answer to the question of where his current name came from. There are several theories about the origin of the name Elbrus:

1. From the Iranian word Aitbares - high Mountain.
2. From the Georgian name of Mount Yalbuz, which in turn comes from the Turkic words “storm” and “ice”.
3. Another theory suggests that the name was formed from three words of the Karachay-Balkar language: El - settlement; Drill - to tighten; Us – character. That is, the name can be translated as having the disposition to send a snowstorm. Apparently, we are talking here not so much about snowstorms, but about volcanic eruptions. There are references to eruptions in folk legends.

Elbrus is a giant dormant volcano

At 5642 meters, Mount Elbrus is the fifth highest volcano in the world. It, like most similar volcanoes, consists of two parts: the base and the cone, which was formed during eruptions. The height of the base in the case of Elbrus is 3700 meters. Thus, during the eruptions, the mountain grew by almost 2000 meters. The characteristic outlines of the double-headed peak, which changes its color depending on the lighting, are visible from almost any corner of the Stavropol Territory. Glaciers, of which there are 23, feed such large rivers as the Kuban and Terek.

In its structure, Elbrus is a typical stratovolcano. It has a clearly defined conical shape. The cone itself is composed of numerous layers of lava, ash and volcanic tuff, in which the entire history of eruptions is recorded. The base of Elbrus began to form in the Neogene, when the Caucasian ridge was actively forming. According to scientists, the volcanic eruptions resembled the eruptions of Vesuvius, but were much stronger.

Its strength can be judged by the fact that its ashes are today found almost 100 kilometers from the volcano itself. It is noteworthy that periods of violent activity and intensive growth of the cone were followed by periods of “hibernation”, during which the glaciers wore down the cone almost completely. According to volcanologists, there have been at least ten such cycles throughout the history of the volcano. Most ancient crater, or rather its remains, can be observed in the form of the rocky formation of Khotyu-Tau-Azau on the southwestern slope.

The vigorous activity of Elbrus ended 2500 years ago, although geographers of the 16th century. the volcano was considered active and was depicted on maps as a fire-breathing mountain. The last time the volcano showed its tough temper was in the first decades of our era. Interestingly, the active eruptions of Elbrus and Kazbek became the main reason for the exodus of Neanderthals from the Caucasus region 40-45 thousand years ago. Currently, volcanologists are in no hurry to classify the volcano as extinct. It is rather a dying volcano and the probability of activation (albeit very small) still remains. The mountain is also the center of minor earthquakes in the region.

Today, the main wealth of these places is their numerous springs. The Narzan Valley near the source of the Malki River is the product of a dying volcano. This place should soon become a resort, which will not be inferior to Kislovodsk either in the number of springs or in the quality of mineral waters.

The weather on the slopes is more than harsh, and at times comparable to the Arctic. The average July temperature is only -1.4 C, and even daytime temperatures rarely rise above +8 C. There is a lot of precipitation here, many times more than at the foot of the ridge, but it can only be seen in the form of snow. The weather station at 4250 meters, having worked for three years, has not recorded a single rain.
Having great importance as the highest point in Europe, Elbrus attracted the attention of German troops during World War II.

Hitler wanted to rename the mountain after himself. The famous Edelweiss division, trained in mountain warfare, took part in local hostilities. In August 1942, soldiers of the Third Reich first captured two way stations, and on August 21 they raised the Nazi German flag over the western peak. The division's soldiers didn't last long - winter and the Red Army soldiers did their job. Already in February 1943, the red flags of the Land of the Soviets were already flying over the snow-white peak of the mountain.

Historically, the entire infrastructure was located on south side mountains. It was here that the cable car was built, which takes tourists to a height of 3750 meters. The ascent to Elbrus consists of several intermediate points:

• Cable car;
• Shelter “Bochki” at an altitude of 3750 m (this is where the ascent begins);
• Hotel "Shelter of Eleven" (4200m);
• Pastukhov Rocks (4700m)
• Station EG5300, which was built recently. It is located in the saddle between two peaks at an altitude of 5300 meters.

It is station EG5300 that is the last point of the route on the way to one of the peaks. After this there is about 500 meters of ascent left.

The northern slopes are more than modestly equipped. There are only a few huts here at an altitude of 3800 meters, which are more often used by rescuers than climbers. The northern route is usually used when climbing the eastern peak. In this case, the Lenz rocks, which stretch at altitudes from 4600 to 5200 meters, serve as a reliable reference point.

Elbrus phenomenon

And finally a few interesting facts O highest point Russia, and at the same time all of Europe:

• The Balkars themselves even today prefer to call the mountain “Mingi-tau”, which in their native language means “Mountain of Thousands”, which emphasizes its exceptional size and height.
• The distance between the peaks in a straight line is 1500 meters. But you will have to cover about 3 km on foot.
• The next highest mountain in Europe, Mont Blanc, is almost eight hundred meters lower than the Caucasian giant. In other words, even having climbed to the saddle between the peaks, you will already be “above everyone else” in Europe.
• Despite the relatively well-developed and well-trodden routes, climbing Elbrus is unlikely to be an easy walk. According to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, every year from 15 to 20 people die on the slopes. Getting up in the winter months is considered suicide. The nominal temperature here easily drops to -30C, and the perceived temperature, thanks to strong winds, is even lower.
• Elbrus is not only mentioned in the works of the ancient Greek historian Herodotus, but also participates in Greek myths. It was here that Zeus decided to chain Prometheus, for his gift to people - fire.

By the way, the habitat of the Greek gods, Mount Olympus, is simply a dwarf in comparison with Elbrus - only 2917 meters.