Message on the theme of the Caucasian mountains Elbrus. Route map for climbing Elbrus. Views from the top of Elbrus

Elbrus is located in the south of Russia, in the Caucasus, 130 kilometers west of the city Nalchik. This double peak volcanic origin has a height of 5642 meters above sea level and is the highest peak in Russia. Climbing Elbrus can be done by every young healthy person, but it is necessary to go in a group with an experienced instructor, and with suitable equipment.

Coordinates:
43.3469353 northern latitude
42.4528694 east longitude

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Mount Elbrus, Russia: description, photo, where it is on the map, how to get

Elbrus- one of the largest stratovolcanoes of the planet; the highest peak in Russia and Europe. The height of this giant increased with each eruption. According to the latest data, it rises to 5642 m above sea level. There are many climbers and naturalists among the tourists visiting Elbrus. This mountain is included in 1000 popular places world according to our site.

Geographically, Elbrus is located in the northern part of the Bolshoy Caucasian ridge on the border between Europe and Asia. The nearest airports are Mineralnye Vody and Nalchik. Then there is a transfer by taxi or bus, which takes from 3 to 4 hours. You can also get to the Elbrus region by train. Railway stations available in many cities North Caucasus.

The natural attractions of the Elbrus region leave no one indifferent. The area located at the foot of the mountain is considered a balneo-climatic zone.

Visitors from all over the world dream of visiting it. For good rest all conditions are created. Possible spa treatment based on carbon dioxide mineral waters, the so-called Narzans. Climbers and skiers dream of visiting the slopes of Mount Elbrus and the nearby Cheget peak. Well and tourist routes run through picturesque gorges, valleys and passes.

For local residents this mountain has a special meaning. The name they gave her "Mingi Tau" means "Eternal Mountain". There are many versions about the origin of the name Elbrus. One of them refers the word to the Iranian dialect and translates as "high, sparkling mountain." The first conquerors of the eastern peak of Elbrus were climbers in the group of General G. A. Emmanuel. This happened back in 1829. Half a century later, to the western, more high peak climbed the English climber F. Grove.

Today, many climbers are trying to conquer the peaks of this giant. Climbing, as a rule, takes place under the strict guidance of professionals who know all the subtleties and nuances of the terrain. The snow-ice cap and the outlines of Elbrus are well known not only to the inhabitants of Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria, but also to Stavropol. This is a real symbol of the entire North Caucasus of Russia. Elbrus glaciers feed the largest river Krasnodar Territory Kuban and the stormy Terek.

Photo Attractions: Mount Elbrus

Mount Elbrus on the map:

Where to stay in Elbrus

In which part of the resort to choose accommodation when coming to rest? The question is quite important, because resort area stretched for 20 kilometers along the Baksan Gorge. This article will help you figure it all out.

Ski and snowboard enthusiasts often settle near cable cars, but there are also disadvantages: crowded, frequent "traffic jams" on the roads, avalanche risk, high altitude problems (pressure, poor health).

There is a compromise accommodation option: to settle in inexpensive hotel away from the ski lifts and enjoy the free shuttle service.

So let's look at all the options:

At the entrance to the Elbrus region, on the left side is Adyr-su gorge with two climbing camps.

Further 5 km higher is settlement Neutrino. Vacationers who arrive in their cars often stop here. Due to the remoteness from the main infrastructure of the resort, prices for private sector(apartments) is significantly lower, and the drive takes 15-20 minutes.

Elbrus village. Another 5 km higher. There is a large settlement with shops, pharmacies and a hospital. Prices for the private sector are slightly higher than in the settlement of Neutrino.

On the outskirts of the village there is a resort area in pine forest. Elbrus a large number of hotels with different price ranges. Most popular: Ozone and Europa Peak. They organize transfers to the ski lifts for their clients.

An ideal place for people suffering from bronchial asthma and various allergic diseases, this place is the most comfortable when choosing summer holidays. Also, climbers planning their ascents to such peaks as Shkhelda, Ushba, Dzhantugan and Mount Elbrus (through the Irik-Chat gorge) start their journey from here.

Above the village there is a picturesque gorge Adyl-su with climbing camps.

Tegenekli village located two kilometers above Elbrus. There is a large boarding house here. And above - a large number of departmental bases.

The following tourist accommodations: settlement Baydaevo, Polyana Narzanov, Polyana Itkol. There are many Narzan springs here, there are several hotels. It takes 5-10 minutes to go to the cable lifts. by car.

Polyana Cheget. Before ski complex a large number of hotels. Considered an avalanche hazard. The slope is more suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers.

Terskol village. The main location for tourists who prefer the private sector. There are also many hotels here. Most of Terskol is located in an avalanche-safe place. On one side of the village Terskolkskoe gorge. On the other Terskol forest. A good place for walks, picking mushrooms and berries.

Polyana Azau. Accommodation at the foot of the mountain. Within walking distance to the ski lifts. Here is placed most of vacationers. Counts the best place accommodation for tourists tired of transport.

However, there are also disadvantages: most of the clearing is avalanche-prone, winter period it is difficult to drive up and out due to snow drifts and traffic jams. Few places to walk.

When choosing Polyana Azau, do not forget that you will live at an altitude of 2300 m above sea level. This can be critical for people with heart conditions and those sensitive to acclimatization moments.

Most often, tourists feel the effects of acclimatization on the first night and after three days. We hope this information will help you when planning your trip.

Distance from the resort settlements to the Elbus cable cars

Terskol - 1.5 km to Cheget and 2.5 to the foot of Elbrus

Baydaevo - 4 km to the ski lift to Cheget + 4 more to Elbrus

Tegenekli - about 7 km to the lift to Cheget + 4 more to Elbrus

Elbrus – about 10 km to Cheget + …

Neutrino - about 14.5 km to Cheget.

In these settlements there is both a private sector and hotels. Walking distance to the ski lift. However, you can always take a taxi, which will cost from 300 to 100 rubles one way per car. Remote housing is cheaper. Some hotels offer a free shuttle to the cable cars.

Hotel location map

On our site you can find the most convenient option housing, order a transfer both from the airport / train station to the place of residence, and to the cable cars. Choose the excursions you are interested in, order a full-fledged tour, just learn something new and interesting about the Elbrus region, see photos of our beauties, get acquainted with the information necessary for hiking trails and ascents. We will be happy to help you find a mountain guide or ski / snowboard instructor and answer any questions you may have! Welcome!

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Climbing Elbrus

The first documented conqueror of Elbrus (its eastern peak) was the Kabardian K. Khashirov, who accompanied the Russian expedition of 1829. The rest of the expedition members were able to climb only 5300 meters. The western peak of Elbrus was conquered by travelers only in 1879. Its first tourists were members of the English expedition, led by climbers F. Grove and accompanied by Kabardian A. Sottaev.

The latter became one of the most famous conquerors of Elbrus. Being a hunter and a lover of mountains, he climbed Elbrus 9 times, and his last ascent was made at the age of 120!

In Soviet times, the Elbrus region became one of the most popular places for mountaineering. The so-called "alpiniades" were repeatedly held here. The 1967 alpiniade became the most massive - almost 2,500 mountaineers took part in it.

Modern classical routes of climbing Elbrus are not very difficult, even for beginners in mountaineering they can do it. There are 3 main routes:

Climbing from the south side of the mountain starts at the foot, but, often, tourists use the cable car lift to the Bochki shelter, which is located at an altitude of 3750 meters. The shelter for tourists is equipped with recreation centers, cafes and bars.
north rise passes in the footsteps of the first conquerors of the mountain. The ascent is also not very difficult for people of average physical fitness, but, unlike the south side, there is no tourist infrastructure here - the entire ascent is carried out without the help of a cable car and other benefits of civilization.
Eastern rise more extreme. It passes along a lava flow, naturally, long frozen. The most beautiful panoramas on the route open from the Akcheryakol lava flow.

Most ascents take place in the summer period - from May to October, as this is the most favorable time with the most comfortable weather (by local standards). All routes are built taking into account the time for acclimatization - after the morning ascent, you need to go down for an overnight stay.

Ski resorts in the Elbrus region

The Elbrus region has been one of the most popular places for skiing in Russia for several decades. In total, about 35 kilometers of skiing and snowboarding trails have been laid in the Elbrus region (the mileage increases annually) and 12 kilometers of cable cars have been equipped.

Among the surrounding mountains, Mount Cheget is the most popular, equipped with both cable-chair and cable-pendulum lifts. The tracks of Cheget are suitable for both beginners and professionals. Also on the slopes of the mountain and in its surroundings, there are plenty of entertainment for relaxing after active skiing (apres-ski) - cafes, bars and restaurants, cozy chalet hotels and spa hotels.

For professionals, there is a “high-mountain taxi” that delivers skiers and snowboarders on snowcats to the Pastukhov rocks, at a height of 4800 meters.

The longest track is located in the Stary Krugozor resort - its length is 2 kilometers, and the height difference reaches 650 meters.

The ski season in the Elbrus region lasts from November to April (with a delay in snow cover, the season is extended until early May).

In summer, horse riding and mountain biking are organized along the paths with panoramic views, trekking and paragliding are offered. For an impressive amount, you can order heli-skiing - skiing with "delivery" to the top by helicopter.

Camp sites

Currently, Elbrus is not a wild and harsh area, but a mecca for mountaineering enthusiasts. Therefore, the slopes of the mountains are equipped with numerous recreation centers and mountain shelters. Most of the tourist infrastructure is concentrated on the southern slope, at an altitude of 3750 meters - in the Bochki shelter. The mountain shelter is equipped with heated cabins and a kitchen.

At an altitude of 3912 meters there is a mountain hotel "Liprus", with a capacity of 48 people. Its hulls are made in a futuristic style and resemble space stations.

The highest mountain hotel on Elbrus is the Shelter of the Eleven Hotel at an altitude of 4050 meters. The hotel was built in the middle of the 20th century and for a long time bore the title of "the highest mountain hotel in the USSR". The main building burned down 20 years ago, but at present the hotel has been rebuilt on the basis of the preserved boiler house.

The plans of the authorities of the region include the construction of a shelter at an altitude of 5300 meters. Construction work is already underway, but opening dates are constantly pushed forward due to difficult weather conditions.

Attractions

The gorges and glaciers of Elbrus and the Elbrus region are the main attractions of these places. Going to the Elbrus region, it is worth visiting:

Baksan gorge. It originates in the glaciers of Elbrus and represents picturesque mountains with snow caps, green valleys, caves with traces of ancient people and rusty earth due to the abundance of iron in its composition.
Djily-Su tract. The place is known primarily for its hot springs. Bathing in natural pools has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular and nervous systems, mineral waters treat skin diseases and allergies. In addition to the springs, there are mighty waterfalls in the vicinity. The height of the largest of them is 25 meters.
Elbrus Defense Museum. The highest mountain museum in the world is located at the Mir station. The local exposition tells about the North Caucasian battles during the Great Patriotic War.
Chegem Gorge. This is a picturesque area with centuries-old pine trees, deep canyons and rocky waterfalls.

How to get to Mount Elbrus

Elbrus is located on the border of the Kabardino-Balkarian and Karachay-Cherkess republics. The nearest airport is located in the city of Nalchik, 130 km from the foot of the mountain, you can also fly to Mineralnye Vody, located 200 km away. Then go through Pyatigorsk and Nalchik to Terskol with transfers by bus. Travel time will be from 3 to 5 hours, depending on the point of departure. Many expeditions and excursion groups depart from Terskol.

Elbrus on Google Maps panoramas

Video "Mount Elbrus"

Elbrus is the highest peak in Russia. It is located in the North Caucasus, where the border between Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia passes. The nearest large cities are Mineralnye Vody, Nalchik, Pyatigorsk. Elbrus is considered the 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 side, Elbrus resembles a two-humped 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, they are almost a mile and a half apart. The peaks are separated by the so-called saddle of Elbrus. The steepness of the rocks is on average 350.

There is an honorary world ranking, which is called the "Seven Peaks". It includes the highest mountains from six parts of the world. Elbrus is the leader in Europe. The second place is occupied by Mont Blanc. 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 - a huge period, and by geological - an instant. Some scientists believe that the volcano is still waiting for a burst of activity.

There is no bad weather

The Elbrus region is characterized by a sharp change in weather. On average, cycles last about a week. Good weather gives way to bad weather, then the idyll reigns again. In the first half of summer, rains are frequent guests. At an altitude of up to 2000 m, the maximum temperature can reach +35. The average temperature is much lower. It also goes down with height. However, this is enough to slightly melt the glaciers. It is they who give rise to such large rivers as the Kuban, Malka and Baksan.

Autumn in the mountains comes 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, frost is fierce at the top. The temperature can drop to -40, and the wind speed, on the contrary, increase to 40 m/s! Such harsh conditions prevail at an altitude of more than 4000 m.

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

Photo: Most of the snow falls on the southern slopes

Climatic conditions determine the specifics of the fauna and flora of the Elbrus region. Caucasian turs, chamois, and roe deer live in the mountains. There are wild boars at the foot. If you're lucky, you can meet yaks on the slopes. They tried to breed artificially, but the experiment was not successful. Moose, jackals, wolves, foxes are found in the forests. The belt of alpine meadows was chosen by the Caucasian black grouse, mountain turkey, stone partridge, as well as raptors - black vulture, lamb, golden eagle and others. It is worth being afraid of vipers, although the highlanders say that meeting with her is fortunate!

Why Elbrus?

Names are given by people, so Elbrus remained nameless for a long time after the 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 a written language and did not communicate with each other. The Kabardino-Balkarians called it "Mingi Tau" - "Eternal Mountain". In Kumyk, her name sounded like "Askhar-tau" - "Snow Mountain of Ases." The Adyghes called "Kuskhemakha" - "Mountain that brings happiness."

According to the official version, the word "Elbrus" comes from the Persian "al-borji", which means "surging". At least on the territory of modern Iran there is a mountain called Elburz. The Ossetian language has the word "albors" - a high mountain. Georgians call the "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 place of worship, 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 her eternal winter. Since then, the two peaks of Elbrus have always been covered with ice and snow.

Brief history of ascents

As a prospector dreams of finding the largest nugget, so climbers have always dreamed of conquering Elbrus. And not only dreamed, but conquered. The pioneers were the scientists. This happened in July 1829. Then the mountain peak was stormed by such famous personalities as the founder of the St. Petersburg geophysical observatory Adolf Kupfer and physicist Emil Lenz. For a while, even the botanist Karl Meyer and the artist Joseph Bernardazzi became climbers!

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 provided 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 West Summit 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. German Merzbacher and Austrian Purcheller climbed up in just eight hours! In 1925, the first woman conquered the summit. Since the middle of the 20th century, climbers have become mass ascents. And now the folk trail does not overgrow here. Elbrus beckons and attracts like a huge magnet.

In the history of conquests there were legendary cases. So in 1974, three UAZ-469 SUVs climbed to a height of 4200 meters! This was done without the help of winches. Since the air at such an altitude 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, the people and cars endured. A unique "ascent" took place!

Elbrus for skiers

If there are slopes and snow, then there are ski resorts. The Elbrus region is no exception in this regard. Ski resorts "Azau" and "Cheget" 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 the spring, not only ride on the slopes, but also sunbathe. On the glaciers skiing is possible all year round.

Photo: The skiing season lasts from October to May

On the slopes of "Azau" there are 3 tracks: "Polyana Azau - Krugozor" (length - 5100 m, difficult), "Krugozor - World" (5110 m, medium), "Mir - Gara-Bashi" (2000 m, easy). The stations are located at altitudes from 2350 to 3847 m. It is possible to climb even higher, but for this you will have to use a snowcat. The elevation difference on the tracks 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 tracks is from 60 to 80 m. The artificial snow system allows skiing 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 station "Krugozor" the Baksan valley is clearly visible. Above you will see a panorama of the Greater Caucasus Range. And from the maximum point - glaciers. The station "Gara-Bashi" "soars" above the clouds and is considered the highest mountain in Europe. The opening hours of the lifts are from 9:00 to 17:00. On the rise - until 16:00.

There are eight types of ski passes on sale - from a one-time lift to a six-day subscription. Children under 6 years old - entrance to the ski lifts is free. 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 are in effect, providing for only one-time descent and ascent. At this time, not skiers, but climbers climb the mountains.

In "Cheget" there are more difficult conditions for skiing. Local routes are more difficult than many European ones. In 1963, skiers first went upstairs on a cable-chair lift. Now Cheget has 15 tracks. 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 on the top of the slope.

There are three lines of the cable car on Cheget. One- and two-seat lifts operate from the Chegetskaya Polyana to the Cheget-2 station (2100-2750 m). To the station "Cheget-3" (2750-3000 m) they rise on a single-seat or drag lift. Up to the highest point (3070 m) only a drag lift operates. The resort offers two options for a ski pass - one-time and one-day. On the "Chegenskaya Polyana", in the immediate vicinity of the ski lifts, there are several hotels.

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

Currently, there are more than 70 accommodation places in the Elbrus region, including alpine camps, guest houses, boarding houses and hotels. Living conditions can vary greatly in cost 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 the Azau Polyana. To the station "Gara-Bashi", located at an altitude of 3847 m, the lift delivers tourists in one hour. Those who wish can climb up to the Oblique shelf at an altitude of 5100 m on a 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 Priyut 11 (4130 m) and Pastukhov rocks (4700 m), which are named after the famous Russian climber Andrey Pastukhov. Then you will have to overcome the Saddle 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, it is necessary to overcome a rather steep climb. But the view from the Western peak 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 more often used to conquer the Eastern Summit. From a height of 3800 m, the glacier begins, so here you will need "cats". At the Lenz Rocks at an altitude of 4800 m, you will have to stop for a rest to acclimatize. Gaining strength and getting used to the rarefied air, you can storm the summit.

From the east side to Elbrus, a route was laid 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 a great view of the lava flow and the Jikauchenkez ice plateau. The object of conquest is the Western peak.

The name "Wild West" is best suited to the western slope of Elbrus. This is an option for extreme sportsmen. Civilization has bypassed these places - there are no snowcats or ski lifts. It is chosen by tourists in good physical shape, since all equipment from beginning to end will have to be carried in backpacks. Victory is celebrated on the Western Summit.

For those who make the ascent, there are shelters in the mountains. This is the name of the place where you can hide from the weather, relax, 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, at an altitude of 4200 meters, the Shelter of Eleven appeared. It already accommodated 40 people. Then the shelters "Sedlovina" and "Shelter of the Nine" were opened. They operate to this day.

Of the new shelters, "Barrels" should be noted. About a dozen six-seater cylindrical houses are located near the Gara-Bashi station at an altitude of 3847 m. For climbers, this is the most popular starting point before the Elbrus assault. Nearby are the Khasan shelter for 12 people and the Kotelnaya shelter, which accommodates up to 50 people. On the south side there are shelters Shuvalov, "Maria" and "Esen".

LeapRus is considered to be the highest mountain comfortable shelter. It is located on the southern slope at an altitude of 3900 m and is designed for 48 people. It has all the charms of civilization - heating, hot water and lighting. Solar panels provide electricity to tourists.

Photo: High-level mountain hotel

Our tourist club offers the following Elbrus climbing programs:

Climbing with tents from the north side to the east 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 a transfer 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. A daily train runs between Moscow and Nalchik. By trains Moscow - Kislovodsk you will get to Mineralnye Vody or Pyatigorsk, and by train Moscow - Vladikavkaz - to Prokhladnaya station.

Intercity buses run to large settlements in the Elbrus region. In their cars, tourists go to Elbrus through Krasnodar or Rostov-on-Don.

Elbrus is the largest mountain in Russia and Europe! One of the "magnificent seven" of the highest peaks of our planet, from which you can even see the Black Sea and the Turkish coast..

Elbrus is located just north of the Main Caucasian Range on the border of the republics Karachay-Cherkessia And Kabardino-Balkaria.

Elbrus(Mount Elbrus) is a two-headed volcano in the North of the Caucasus mountain system.
The height of the Western peak is 5642 m.
The height of the Eastern Peak is 5621 m.
The height of the saddle is 5300 m.

The white double-headed volcanic cone of Elbrus differs markedly from the entire mountain landscape of the Caucasus and can be seen in good weather for a hundred kilometers. Nearest town - settlement Terskol (Rep. Kabardino-Balkaria) in the Baksan Gorge at the foot of the mountain itself.

Elbrus coordinates on the maps:
43°21’11″ N 42°26’13″ E

Tops of Elbrus.

Due to the status of the highest point in Europe, the ascent to the top of Elbrus is popular among climbers around the world and is regarded as one of the "steps" to conquer the "seven peaks".

Despite the ease of routes, Mount Elbrus annually takes dozens of human lives. To a greater extent, the lethality of the mountain is due to the difficult climate with changeable weather, as well as the poor training of climbers without experience. Visually, the peaks of Elbrus seem to be easily accessible, which instantly excites the hearts and minds of many people to "conquer the mountain" and even those who have never been involved in mountaineering ... In fact, this simplicity is deceptive and in reality a person without preparation finds himself in the most difficult conditions in which always manage to survive...

Climbing Elbrus.

The peoples of the Caucasus and the Middle East composed a large number of songs and legends about Elbrus.

One of the legends tells that before the mountain was one-humped. On its top lived the magical bird Simurgh, who bestowed happiness and prosperity on the highlanders who inhabited the valleys of the mountain gorges. This idyll lasted for many centuries, until the desire to take possession of the bird's throne under heaven did not lead two greedy people to its possessions. Their fierce struggle was stopped by higher powers: a blinding lightning cut the sky, a terrible thunder broke out and Elbrus split in two, spewing fiery streams that incinerate everything in its path. After such a terrible duel, the magical bird Simurgh hid deep underground, upset by the ingratitude and greed of people.

According to scientists, Elbrus has not reminded of itself for quite a long time, but despite this, the current degree of activity does not give specialists a reason to classify it as an extinct volcano, now it 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 +60°C. In the bowels of the volcano, the life of many famous springs of the medical resorts of Kislovodsk, Pyatigorsk and the entire region of the Caucasian Mineral Waters begins.

Flowers on the mountain peaks of the Caucasus Mountains.

The climate on Elbrus is characterized by severity, which makes it related to the Arctic regions. The average temperature in the warmest month of the year does not rise above -1.4°C. There is a lot of precipitation here, but they are mainly represented only in the form of snow.

Around the two-headed giant are the most beautiful peaks of the Caucasus: Nakra-Tau, Ushba, Donguz-Orun .

Panorama.

Made the first ascent Kilar Khashirov - the conductor of the Russian scientific expedition, a Kabardian by nationality on July 22, 1829 to the Eastern peak of Elbrus.

The western peak of Elbrus was conquered by a team of climbers led by Florence Grove in 1874.

The first to reach both peaks was a Balkar hunter and shepherd Ahiya Sottaev . During the period of his long life, he conquered Elbrus nine times: he made his first ascent at the age of more than forty, and the last - in 1909, when he was 121 years old.

The study of Elbrus by Russian scientists began actively in the 19th century. Academician V.K. Vishnevsky in 1913 he was the first to determine the height and location of the volcano. In addition to the status of a unique natural landmark, the famous Caucasian peak is also an important scientific base. Even before the war, the first experiments with cosmic rays in the Soviet Union were carried out here, and today the most highly located geophysical laboratory is located there.

The territory of the Elbrus region is a major center of tourism and skiing. The bulk of the guests are fans of winter sports, including extreme ones, which are very popular in these mountains. In addition to the usual snowboarding, sledding and freeride, thrill seekers were offered a new entertainment, which is climbing to the top of Elbrus by helicopter and then skiing down the mountain. For more conservative skiers, cable cars are provided, the average capacity of which is 2,400 people per hour.

On the slopes of Elbrus.

How to get to Elbrus?

by plane fly to the nearest airport in Mineralnye Vody. There are many regular flights to Mineralnye Vody from Moscow from airlines: Aeroflot, Sky Express, Kavminvodyavia, S7 Airlines, UTair, Don Avia.

By train you can get to Pyatigorsk or Nalchik - these are the nearest settlements from which it will be faster to get on the "minibus" or taxi. Already from these places, beautiful views of the Caucasus Mountains open up, which you can admire all the way.

It will be most convenient to get from the airport or train station by taxi, it will be cheaper to use the services private cabbies. The best and cheapest option is to find on the Internet the phone numbers of private "bombs" from the village of Terskol and arrange a meeting in advance upon arrival and a price. The way to Elbrus will take about four hours. You need to get to the city of Baksan, then turn into the Baksan Gorge and to the end along the Baksan River, where the road will lead to the very foot of Elbrus.

You can also get to regular buses And fixed-route taxis. Only this method is less convenient and will take more time, since there are no direct flights to Terskol. First you will need to get to the city of Baksan and there transfer to a fixed-route taxi to the village of Terskol. The road in the Baksan gorge passes through the settlements: Tyrnauz, Upper Baksan, the village of Elbrus and Tegenekli.

Based on materials from sites: pro-planet.ru, udivitelno.com

24 March, 2015

The mountain is a cone of an extinct volcano that erupted for the last time at the beginning of our era. The height of the western peak of Elbrus is 5642 meters, the eastern one is 5621 meters, the peaks are separated by a deep saddle (5325 meters). According to legend, it was here that the search for the Golden Fleece led the Argonauts, and here the titan Prometheus was chained in chains for daring to bring fire to people.

legendary mountain

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 slope angle reaches 35 degrees, and the peaks are covered with a dense cap of perennial snow - firn and eternal ice. Several dozen glaciers with a total area of 134 square meters descend from them in all directions. km.

The most famous are Big and Small Azau, Irik, Terskol. In the powerful glaciers of Elbrus, the Kyukurtlyu, Ullu-Khurzuk, Ullu-Kam rivers originate, which, merging, form the Kuban, the largest river in the North Caucasus. Kuban can be called the daughter of Elbrus.

The legendary mountain has always attracted people with its mysterious beauty. 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. The sparkling glaciers of the southern side of the Elbrus region have been chosen by skiers and climbers since Soviet times. The longest routes of the mountain: Azau - Stary krugozor - 2.5 km, Stary krugozor - Mir - 2 km. The season in the Elbrus region lasts from December to March.

Up to a height of 4000 meters, the slopes of Elbrus are relatively gentle, but higher they become steep.

The Adyl-Su, Adyr-Su and Shkheldy gorges are especially popular with climbers from Russia and the former Soviet republics.

Conquest of Elbrus

The history of the conquest of Elbrus has almost 200 years. The first to determine its height in 1813 was the Russian academician Vikenty Vishnevsky.

And the first recorded ascent of Elbrus, the eastern peak, was made in 1829 by an expedition of the Russian Geographical Society led by the hero of the war with Napoleon and the conqueror of the Caucasus, General George Emmanuel. The auxiliary service of the expedition consisted of 650 soldiers and 350 Cossacks of the line, as well as local guides.

The expedition included geophysicist and founder of the Main Physical Observatory in St. Petersburg Academician Adolf Kupfer, physicist Emily Lenz, founder of the Russian Entomological Society, zoologist Eduard Menetrier, botanist Karl Meyer, who later became director of the Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences, artist-architect Joseph Bernardazzi and Hungarian scientist Janos Besse.

Kupfer, Lenz, Meyer, Menetrier, Bernardazzi, 20 Cossacks and guides participated directly in the ascent. However, the lack of experience and the poor quality of climbing equipment forced most of the participants to turn back.

According to some sources, the Karachai guide Kilar Khachirov was the first to climb the eastern peak at about 11 am, according to others, it was a Kabardian guide.

From the memoirs of Adolf Kupfer: “Only the next day - July 23 - at noon, the Hungarian traveler de Bess noticed through a telescope on the sparkling covers of Elbrus four people who were trying to reach the top of the mountain. Three of them soon disappeared from sight, the fourth rose higher and higher - and suddenly his figure was outlined in relief above the very crown of Elbrus. He was, as it turned out later, the Kabardian Kilyar, a native of Nalchik..

This event was marked by a gun salute in the camp.

By order of General Emmanuel, in memory of this outstanding event, a text was carved on the rock: “In the reign of the All-Russian Emperor Nicholas I, the commander of the troops on the Caucasian line, General of the Cavalry Georgy Emmanuel, camped here from July 20 to 23, 1829. With him were: his son Georgy, fourteen years old, academicians sent by the Russian Government: Kupfer, Lenz, Menetrie, Meyer, an official of the Vansovich mining corps, the architect of Mineralnye Vody Joseph Bernardazzi and the Hungarian traveler Ivan de Bess. Academicians and Bernardazzi, leaving the camp, located eight thousand feet (1143 fathoms) above the sea surface, ascended Elbrus on the twenty-second to fifteen and a half thousand feet (2223 fathoms). Only the Kabardian Kilyar reached the top of it. Let this humble stone pass on to posterity the names of those who were the first to pave the way to reaching Elbrus, which until now was considered impregnable..

The data that Emmanuel's expedition conquered Elbrus were not known abroad, therefore, when the Englishman Douglas Freshfield climbed the mountain in 1868, this was regarded as the first ascent. The highest peak of Elbrus (western) was conquered by a team of climbers led by Florence Grove in 1874.

The first geographical map of Elbrus was compiled in 1890 by the Russian military topographer Andrei Pastukhov, who made the first ascent without guides. Rocks at an altitude of 4800 meters now bear his name.

It is believed that the first to reach both peaks was the Balkar hunter and shepherd Ahiya Sottaev. He climbed Elbrus nine times, the last one in 1909, when he was 121 years old.

In Soviet times, mountaineering took on a mass character. According to the Society for Proletarian Tourism, from 1829 to 1914 Elbrus was climbed 59 times, 47 of them by foreigners. And in 1935 alone, Soviet climbers climbed Elbrus 2016 times.

Elbrus was in the center of attention during the Great Patriotic War - it became the scene of fierce confrontation. Units of the German mountain division "Edelweiss" also took part in the battles. During the battle for the Caucasus on August 21, 1942, after occupying the mountain bases "Krugozor" and "Shelter of Eleven", the German Alpine shooters managed to install German banners on the western peak of Elbrus. But by the middle of the winter of 1942-1943, the German troops were driven off the slopes of Elbrus, and on February 13 and 17, 1943, our climbers climbed both peaks, where Soviet flags were hoisted.

Elbrus today

Today, Elbrus is one of the most popular Russian ski resorts, a Mecca for snowboarders, freeriders and climbers.

The Elbrus region is also interesting for nature lovers. One of the brightest representatives of the animal world of this region is the Caucasian tur, which lives at altitudes from 1200 to 3400 meters above sea level. Tours at night come to graze on alpine meadows, where bluegrass, foxtail, fescue, and buckwheat grow. In winter, the tours feed on mosses, lichens, and tree bark. In the most inaccessible places, along with tours, there is a chamois. In the lowland part of the mountain forests, one can meet the roe deer, which belongs to the deer family. In the Elbrus region, an attempt was made to adapt a herd of Central Asian yaks, but the experiment failed. Wolves also live here, but you should not be afraid of them, there was no case of wolves attacking either skiers or climbers.

Although the Elbrus volcano has not reminded of itself for almost two thousand years, scientists consider it not extinct, but dormant. 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 and +60 ºС. In the bowels of Elbrus, the life of many famous springs of the medical resorts of Kislovodsk, Pyatigorsk and the entire region of the Caucasian Mineral Waters was born.