Elbrus Expedition – Europe’s 7 Summit – Easy Snow Climb

General overview

Mount Elbrus is the highest mountain in all of Europe, and one of the fabled Seven Summits. Perched in the Caucasus Mountains at 5,642 meters (18,510 feet), Mt. Elbrus is one of the best ways to test yourself at high altitude in a short amount of time. In addition to spectacular scenery, we will also experience one of Europe’s richest and most unique cultures, as we trek and climb in Russia near the border to Georgia.

The route leads through a large ski area with good infrastructure, a comfortable hut to the exit of the ascent, and is by far the easiest route to the summit. A well thought-out travel plan and a great view of the Caucasus awaits us. Experienced mountain guides accompany you to the roof of Europe.

Itinerary

1) Fly to Mineralnye Vody, take 20 minute taxi (~$20 USD) to hotel in Piatigorsk. Food shopping and money exchange into Russian Rubles.
2) 4 hour bus ride to a hotel in Azau Village, 2,200 meters (7,218feet). Equipment check, orientation, andopportunity to rent or purchase needed equipment in Azau or Cheget
3) Acclimatization ascent (using ski lifts if possible) of Cheget Mountain, 3,450 meters (11,319 feet). Stay in Azau hotel.
4) Ride tram and ski lifts toan acclimatization hike on Elbrus slopes up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). Stay in the Azau Hotel
5) Ride tram and ski lift. Set up base camp at Barrels huts 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) or huts above Diesel Hut, 4,100 meters (13,451 feet). Acclimatization hike to
4,500 meters (14,764 feet) and basic ice/snow/rope/self-belay practice. Sleep in hut.
6) Acclimatization hike up to 4,900 meters (16,076 feet). Sleep in hut.
7) Climb to Elbrus summit at 5,642 meters (18,510 feet). Descend to base camp. Sleep in the hut.
8) Extra summit day/ Descend (ski lift) and transfer to MineralnyeVody.
9) Fly home – Say goodbye to new friends and depart Piatigorsk by taxi to Mineralnye Vody (MRV) airport.

Good to know

Leadership

Dan Mazur is a relaxed, friendly, well-organized, and highly skilled professional with over 20 years of experience leading people to the summits of Everest, K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Manaslu, Shishapangma, and Elbrus.

Experience

For the Elbrus Normal Route, it is not necessary for you to have previous climbing experience. We will teach you all of the mountain skills you need to know during the trip. To participate in this expedition, you must be a very fit and active winter hiker/climber in good health, and able to carry food, water, clothing and personal gear, and for the stronger members, some group equipment.

Prior to joining our group, please see your doctor and obtain the necessary permission and advice, as well as medications for travel in extremes of altitude, and also for exotic locales.