Mount Elbrus location. What to see in the vicinity. Geographic location of Elbrus

Who among us has not heard about the greatness and beauty of Elbrus? Does everyone know where Mount Elbrus is located? What is the height of Mount Elbrus? Rising in the ridge of the Caucasus Mountains, it is the highest and most famous point in Russia.

In the last century, Elbrus inspired travelers - climbers to climb. Overcoming dangerous areas, people tempered their will and strength. Enjoying the beauty of the snowy mountains, contemplating the amazing local landscape from a height, poets and bards composed their songs and poems.

It is on Elbrus that there is a feeling of complete freedom from the surrounding bustle, and there is an opportunity to enjoy the deafening silence. The land where Mount Elbrus is located has long been considered a place that can be described as a "paradise on Earth."

The pioneers of the famous mountain were Russian scientists. In 1913, academician, astronomer V.K. Vishnevsky calculated the height and exact location of Elbrus. In 1829, the first Russian expedition was equipped to Elbrus. The researchers included distinguished scientists: academician Lenz, botanist Meyer, architect of Pyatigorsk and others.

The expedition was accompanied by the Cossacks, a detachment of a thousand people, led by General Emmanuel. A detachment of Cossacks stopped at the northern foot of Elbrus at an altitude of 2400 meters. The general and his detachment did not go further, but watched the pioneers through a telescope, ready, in case of unforeseen circumstances, to come to the rescue.

A commemorative inscription was engraved on a large stone, which has survived to this day: “1829 from July 8 to July 11, the camp headed by General Cavalier Emmanuel.”

And the expedition continued its ascent. After spending the night at an altitude of 3000 meters, the travelers moved on. Part of the expedition stopped at an altitude of 4800 meters and did not go further. At this point, a memorial sign was carved - the St. George Cross and the date: 1829. In 1949, a group of climbers from the Science Society discovered this monument. Only Lenz, two Cossacks and two Kabardian guides continued to go higher.

Lenz and Cossack Lysenkov reached the saddle of Elbrus. They could no longer go further, as the loose, softened snow interfered with the ascent. Above went only one Kabardian Killar. He was able to reach the very top of Mount Elbrus because his body got used to the mountain climate and mountain paths.

General Emmanuel saw through a telescope on the eastern peak of Elbrus the brave mountaineer Killar. When Killar returned to the travelers' camp in the evening, the scientists greeted him with the honors that Killar deserved as a brave pioneer.

In honor of the discovery of the top of Elbrus and the first ascent to it, two iron boards were cast, with an inscription describing this event. Later, these commemorative signs were installed in Pyatigorsk near. They are currently kept in the museum.

First steps to the top

How to start your first ascent of Mount Elbrus? The first step is to find the mountain on the map of Russia in order to have an idea of the scale and size of the object. After you have found out where Mount Elbrus is located, you will need to tone all the muscles by performing active physical exercises.

Push-ups, sit-ups, exercises on the horizontal bar. All these exercises should be done two months before the expected date of travel. Be sure to do jogging for several kilometers: increase the endurance of the body. Squats on one leg with a “pistol gun” improve the tone of the muscles of the legs.

Before the trip, you need to take a break from physical exertion so that the body recovers and there is no overstrain. They say that Elbrus carries a special energy charge. Elbrus makes strong-minded people stronger, it exhausts weak-minded people. So it is useful to do yoga, breathing exercises, to put in order not only the body, but also the spirit. It is necessary to feel the harmony of strength and spirit.

Beginners are usually accompanied by instructors. There is no need to be ashamed of this, and thoughtlessly risk your life, starting the ascent without an experienced escort. Moreover, it is not known how the beginner's body will react to the height. The height of Elbrus in meters is 5642. Five kilometers, six hundred and forty-two meters! On a horizontal surface, the journey would take just over an hour on foot.

But you have to go up the frozen slope, overcoming obstacles and suffering hardships along the way. Climbing to a height is accompanied by pressure drops, so there are several guides for a group of several people. As a rule, this is one guide for three people. If someone becomes ill, the group will have to return to the camp and accompany the sick traveler.

On the second day after arrival, experienced guides first lead travelers to Mount Maly Cheget. The height of this mountain is 3360 m. The hiking trip lasts 2-3 hours. According to the results of this path, the beginners, already accustomed to the situation, are led to the southern slope of Elbrus the next day. The southern slope is a classic climbing route.

In modern perception, with the use of the latest climbing equipment and with the help of experienced mentors, the path will not seem very difficult and dangerous. But this is in the case of unquestioning obedience to the guides.

The main difficulties in overcoming snowy peaks can arise when passing through cracks in glaciers hidden by snow, with strong winds, at very low temperatures. Therefore, it is recommended to visit Elbrus for the first time, in the second half of summer, in July-August.

The coordinates and history of the famous mountain

Of course, having arrived in Nalchik, the capital of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, any local resident will be able to show where Mount Elbrus is located. Yes, it's hard not to notice it - it towers over the city with a snow hat and is even marked on the flag of the republic. The height of Mount Elbrus fascinates and delights with its cold beauty.

Elbrus is a volcano that lost its strength many millennia ago. More than 218 thousand years ago, erupting more than 15 times, Elbrus emerged from the bowels of the earth as a huge giant. And in modern times, people feel tremors, but they are no longer as dangerous as active volcanoes.

Elbrus is known for its harsh climate. Snowy hills do not melt even on the hottest summer days. On Elbrus, the average temperature in the warmest month is 1.4 degrees. There is more precipitation on Elbrus than on the plains of the Stavropol Territory, but they fall mainly in snow flakes. At the meteorological station of Elbrus, for three years no rain was noticed.

Some people even joke that Elbrus is a piece of ice abandoned from the Arctic. Warm air streams coming from the Atlantic, meeting this cold barrier on their way, pour out rain on the foothills of Elbrus. And Elbrus changes the weather in nearby regions. Local residents even noticed: if Elbrus is covered with clouds on a clear day, expect the weather to worsen.

Legends and songs have long been composed about Elbrus. Herodotus wrote about him, even before our era. The peoples of the Middle East and the Caucasus have folk epics about him.

Mount Elbrus has more than two dozen names in different languages and dialects. Moreover, the Kabardian language does not translate the word "Elbrus" in any way. It is believed that the word "Elbrus" is of Iranian origin. But, in Kabardian and other local languages, there are 40 different names for the great mountain. It is difficult to write about such a great grief. And it is impossible to describe in words all the beauty of Elbrus. This beauty must be seen with your own eyes.

Elbrus is located in the south of Russia, in the Caucasus, 130 kilometers west of the city of Nalchik. This two-headed peak of 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 on 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 in the world according to our website.

Geographically, Elbrus is located in the northern part of the Greater Caucasus Range, on the border of Europe with 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. There are railway stations in many cities of the 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. All conditions are created for a good rest. Perhaps resort and sanatorium treatment based on carbonic mineral waters, the so-called narzan. Climbers and skiers dream of visiting the slopes of Mount Elbrus and the nearby Cheget peak. Well, 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 summit of Elbrus were climbers in the group of General G. A. Emmanuel. This happened back in 1829. Half a century later, the English climber F. Grove climbed to the western, higher peak.

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 Kuban, the largest river in the Krasnodar Territory, 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, since the resort area stretches for 20 kilometers along the Baksan Gorge. This article will help you figure it all out.

Ski and snowboard lovers often settle near the cable cars, but there are also disadvantages: crowded, frequent traffic jams, avalanches, high altitude problems (pressure, poor health).

There is a compromise accommodation option: stay in an inexpensive hotel away from the ski lifts and use a free shuttle.

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 the private sector (apartments) are significantly lower, and it takes 15-20 minutes to drive.

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 a pine forest. Elbrus has 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 a summer vacation. 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. There are many hotels in front of the ski resort. 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 walking, picking mushrooms and berries.

Polyana Azau. Accommodation at the foot of the mountain. Within walking distance to the ski lifts. This is where most of the tourists stay. It is considered the best place to stay for tourists who are tired of transport.

However, there are also disadvantages: most of the clearing is avalanche-prone, in winter 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 website you can choose the most convenient accommodation option, 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 and climbing. 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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The history of the conquest of Elbrus

The idea of climbing the legendary Mount Elbrus haunted many daredevils, they were not afraid of either eternal snow or cold winds. Climbing Elbrus gave birth to mountaineering in Russia. The first attempt to conquer the mountain was made in 1829 by the expedition of the Russian Academy of Sciences, but only a guide reached the eastern peak from the whole group. After 45 years, the British, accompanied by a local guide, managed to climb the western peak.

The first map of the volcano was made by the Russian topographer Pastukhov, who conquered Elbrus without guides.

It is known about the Balkarian hunter Ahiy Sattaev, who climbed the tops of Elbrus 9 times, and he made the last ascent at the age of 121 years.

In Soviet times, the conquest of Elbrus became very prestigious, mountaineering on its slopes became widespread.

Today, Mount Elbrus is the Mecca of climbers, skiers and freeriders.

Panorama of Elbrus

Skiing

Elbrus is considered the most skiable mountain in the world. You can enjoy winter sports in the Elbrus region from November to May, and some tracks are available all year round. There are 35 kilometers of ski slopes and 12 kilometers of cable cars along the mountains. Both experienced skiers and beginners can ride the slopes, for whom there are specially allocated simple routes and training in skiing skills is organized. The favorite places of most skiers are the slopes of Mount Cheget, which are not inferior to the slopes of the ski resorts in Austria, Switzerland and France.

There are three lines of pendulum lifts, chair lifts and towing roads in the public ski area.

Those who wish can use the services of a high-altitude taxi - snowcats, which will take you to the "Shelter of Eleven" or to the Pastukhov Rocks (4800 meters), from where unparalleled views of the peaks of the Caucasus Range open.

The Stary Krugozor resort invites lovers of long descents to the longest Elbrus track, 2 kilometers long and with a height difference of 650 meters.

On the southern slopes of the mountain there is the Elbrus Azau resort, the routes of which are distinguished by great freedom of movement - there are a minimum of nets, there are no separators. The resort offers: rental of climbing equipment, sleds and snowmobiles, a ski school, snow groomers and helicopter flights.

Experienced snowboarders and skiers can drive off the eastern slope of Elbrus to the northern side of the mountain.

Freeride masters are delivered by helicopter to the untouched slopes, from where they rush at great speed across the virgin snow.

At the foot of Elbrus, cafes, billiard rooms, and saunas await guests. You can have a bite to eat at each station on the slopes of the mountain. In the village of Terskol there is a zone for playing paintball.

The ski season on the slopes of the five-thousander lasts from mid-November to April. It happens that a strong snow cover is kept on some tracks until mid-May.

Video: Descent from the top of Europe / Expedition to Mount Elbrus

Mountaineering

Every year, thousands of climbers and tourists storm the slopes of Elbrus. Thanks to the improvement of climbing equipment, anyone with acceptable physical fitness can visit the top of the mountain.

For those wishing to climb, routes are organized in different directions. Climbing Elbrus along the classical path from the south side does not require special mountaineering training from tourists. People of average physical shape will be able to participate in such a campaign. Tourists can use the cable car that delivers the conquerors of Elbrus to the "Bochki" shelter, located at an altitude of 3750. The guests of the Caucasus are at the disposal of the restaurants, bars and hotels of the shelter, where you can relax and refresh yourself before throwing to the top.

The northern route, passing along the path of the first ascent, is the same in terms of difficulty. But, unlike the southern route, along the way you will not meet any shelters or a cable car, which will add extreme sports to the hike. It will take more time for the northern ascent, but as a reward you will receive unique views of the Caucasian nature, untouched by civilization.

The eastern ascent passes along the Akcheryakol lava flow and is conquered only by physically strong people. This route is considered the most beautiful.

The routes are designed in such a way that the climbers have enough time to acclimatize.

The most favorable period for climbing is from May to October.

The cost of a ten-day tour is from 38,000 to 85,000 rubles. The price depends on the complexity of the route and on the set of services provided, of which the mandatory ones are: transfer from the airport of arrival and back, accommodation in a shelter or base, meals, instructor services. In addition, the services of porters and cooks, equipment rental, medical insurance can be paid.

All participants of a successful ascent are issued a certificate "The Conqueror of Elbrus".

In addition to climbing and skiing, guests of the Elbrus region are offered paragliding, rock climbing and ice climbing, mountain biking, heli-skiing, trekking, kiteboarding. In summer, mountain biking is possible on the gentle slopes.

Attractions

Hiking through the Chegem Gorge with its magnificent pine forests, harsh canyons and amazing waterfalls falling from the rocks will leave an indelible impression on tourists.

The picturesque Baksan Gorge originates in the glaciers of Elbrus. If you have time, be sure to take a walk through its green valleys, framed by mighty snow-capped peaks. The gorge has its own attractions - the monument "Grieving Highlander" and a geophysical observatory that studies the Sun. In the Narzanov Glade you will see rusty earth - it has become so due to the abundance of iron in the water of local sources. On the slopes of the mountains you can find caves with traces of the presence of ancient people in them.

Jily-Su

The Djily-Su tract, located on the northern slope of Elbrus, is known for its healing mineral springs. Warm water flows directly from the rock and collects in an artificial bath, updated every 10 minutes. Swimming is scheduled. Local narzan have a beneficial effect on the heart, nervous system, cure some skin diseases and allergies. In total, there are 14 springs in the tract, each of which has its own specialization: “kidney”, “eye”, “liver” and others. In Jily-Su there are stunning waterfalls - the famous forty-meter giant Sultan and Karakaya-Su with a height of 25 meters. Popular with tourists are the Valley of Castles, the Valley of Stone Mushrooms and the German airfield located in the tract.

On Mount Cheget, at an altitude of 2719 meters, there is an observation platform where, sitting in rented sun loungers, you can admire the majestic nature of the North Caucasus for an infinitely long time. Those who wish to refresh themselves are met by the “Ai” cafe.

Station Mir

At the Mir station, in the highest mountain museum in the world - the Elbrus Defense Museum, expositions will tell about the dramatic events of the Great Patriotic War. There is also a monument to the soldiers-defenders of the North Caucasus.

50 kilometers from Nalchik, in the valley of the Cherek-Bolkarsky River, there are karst Blue Lakes fed from underground sources. It is worth coming here to admire their beauty. But even professional swimmers do not risk swimming in the lake Tserik-Kel - the circular flow of the reservoir creates a whirlpool from which it is impossible to get out.

Accommodation

Hotels in the Elbrus region can be conditionally divided into three categories: those built back in Soviet times; small semi-lux hotels for 20-25 people; premium class hotels - a modern boarding house "Elbrus", hotels "Ozon" and "Seven peaks".

The recreation center "Elbrus" is waiting for guests in a pine forest on the banks of a mountain river near the village of Tegenekli. Hotel "Balkaria" is located on the slopes of Elbrus at an altitude of 2300 meters. A little higher, in the village of Terskol, there are the Vershina, Seven Summits, and Antau hotels.

For climbers, shelters have been built to meet climbers on the glaciers. At an altitude of 3750 meters, you can spend the night and gain strength in the insulated trailers of the Bochki shelter. A more comfortable shelter "Liprus" welcomes guests at an altitude of 3911 meters. The highest mountain hotel in Russia, Shelter of Eleven, is located at an altitude of 4130 meters.

Prices for accommodation in hotels in the Elbrus region range from 1000 to 8000 rubles per double room per day, depending on the season and the class of the hotel. As a rule, the price includes two meals a day and a transfer to the ski slopes.

Inexpensive housing is offered by the private sector of the villages of the Elbrus region - Tegenekli, Elbrus and Terskol.

Yak

At the service of tourists who want to climb to the tops of Elbrus, both large companies that have their own shelters on the slopes, and single guides. Carefully consider the choice of the organizer of the ascent. Your safety will depend on the professionalism of the escort.

Be sure to find out in advance what clothes you will need and what things you need to bring with you.

Climbing participants of any complexity need to be prepared for the fact that on the way to the top of Elbrus, adverse natural factors await you: cold, wind, rarefied air, increased solar radiation, sulfur dioxide emissions and lack of visibility in inclement weather. You will have to carry a heavy backpack and make long walks. You will spend the night in tents and cook your own food on gas burners. Soberly assess the state of your health in order to avoid accidents.

All disputes are resolved before the ascent and after the descent.

It is necessary to unquestioningly follow all the instructions of the guide. All controversial points are discussed either before the ascent or after the descent.

The organizers of the ascent have the right to stop or shorten the tour for individual climbers or the entire group in the event of:

Violations of safety rules and behavior in the mountains;
Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages;
Failure to comply with the norms of public order;
Disrespectful attitude towards nature and local residents.

Tourists from 16 to 18 years of age must provide written permission to climb from their parents. Children from 14 years of age are allowed on simple routes together with their parents.

If you went to the mountains on your own, you must register at the local department of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, have communication sources with you - a walkie-talkie or a cell phone. It is preferable to use the services of Beeline and Megafon operators, MTS does not always provide a stable connection.

All climbers must have identification documents and a medical policy with them.

morning panorama

How to get there

By train or plane to the cities of Kislovodsk, Mineralnye Vody, Nalchik or Cherkessk, from where a taxi or bus will take you to the desired place in the Elbrus region. If you arrived as part of an organized group, you will be provided with a transfer.

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

Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe and Russia in particular. It is included in the catalog of the seven highest objects on the planet Earth. But this is not the only characteristic of this point in the Caucasus Mountains. It is a stratovolcano or, in other words, a layered volcano, which is formed by multi-layer hardening of lava, ash and tephra.

Such peaks are characterized by high height and steep slopes. This is due to the properties of lava masses, which have a viscous and thick consistency. And eruptions from stratovolcanoes are explosive in nature, while the lava quickly solidifies and does not spread over the relief over long distances.

The height of Mount Elbrus

This volcano has two peaks with different heights. The western one is 5642 m, and the eastern one is a little lower - 5621 m. The distance between them is 3 km, and if measured along the mountainside - 5200 meters. On this saddle between the peaks of the volcano, the highest alpine shelter in Europe for climbers and mountain climbers was built. And there are more than enough people who want to climb to such a height, starting with the first ascent to the eastern peak on July 22, 1829 by Khilar Khachirov. This is a local guide, a resident of Kabardino-Balkaria, who knows these places well. The western peak was conquered somewhat later, in 1874, by the English climbers F. Grove, F. Gardner, H. Walker, P. Knubel and the local guide A. Sottaev. After that, thousands of people from all over the world try to climb to the height of Mount Elbrus, coming to the Elbrus region every year.

controversial issues

Often on the pages of the World Wide Web you can see controversial dialogues about Elbrus, where it is, in which country. The mountain is located on the border of several territorial units, although most of it is still on the territory of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, which occupies the northern slope of the Caucasus Mountains.

But the mountain itself is located at the junction of Kabardino-Balkaria and the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, its image is on the emblems of both of these regions. However, North Ossetia, Georgia, and the Stavropol Territory are very close. Therefore, in the Elbrus region there is a whole complex of resorts belonging to different republics of Russia and Georgia.

Also, disputes on the issue of Elbrus (where it is located, in which country) are also being conducted by geographers who cannot agree on a common opinion. Doubts are raised by assumptions that this volcano is located in Europe. Some argue that this is already the territory of Asia. The border between the continents runs just in the middle of the Main Caucasian Range.

mountain name

Depending on the location of Elbrus (where it is located, in which country), local residents call the volcano differently. In Iran, it is called Aitibares, which means "sparkling or shining". This name is very consistent with the appearance of the peak, when the eternal snow reflects the bright sun.

In Georgia, they call the mountain Yalbuz, which means: yal - "storm", buz - "ice". It can be seen that the inhabitants of this country have repeatedly witnessed the raging elements on the slopes of the mountain.

The Armenian name is closely phonetically related to the Georgian version. Sounds like Alberis. Many believe that this name comes from the word Alps.

The name of the mountain, invented by the Alans, sounds very beautiful. These are residents of Karachay-Balkaria. "Mingi-Tau" is translated as "the eternal mountain of consciousness and wisdom."

The world-famous name of the volcano - Elbrus - also has a local origin. Consists of several words. "El" is translated as a settlement or nationality, but "bur" is a word familiar to Russian-speaking people, meaning to twist, turn back. The last particle of the word "mustache" is translated as temper, behavior.

Based on the meaning of the word Elbrus (where it is located, in which country, we found out), a name was coined, you can understand the nature and properties of this famous volcano, which in sunny weather reflects the sun's rays with a bright brilliance, in bad weather threatens travelers with a strong snowstorm with a spinning wind freezing rain and snow. Climbers who want to conquer the summit always remember the danger of such a hike.

Glaciers of the Caucasus Mountains

Elbrus last erupted over two thousand years ago. Since then, the temperature has always been very low at the top, which does not rise above 0 degrees even in the summer heat. The glaciers that cap the mountain cover 134.5 km, which is 10% of all such formations of the Caucasus Mountains. There are only 23 glaciers on Elbrus.

The largest and most famous are Big and Small Azau, Irik, Kokurtly, which occupy vast areas of valleys and slopes. But there are also very picturesque ice ones hanging from the cliffs. These are blocks of such glaciers as Kogutai, Terskol, Garabashi. Especially a lot of eternal ice is located on the northern slope of Mount Elbrus at an altitude of over 3850 meters.

The water formed after the melting and fall of these accumulations of ice fills the river flows of the mountain rivers of Stavropol, such as the Kuban, Malka and Baksan.

The climate on the mountain

The mountain range always has changeable weather. So in Kabardino-Balkaria, Elbrus is distinguished by the frequent change of good warm weather to bad, with precipitation and winds. This is due to the mountainous terrain, which forms the circulation of air masses by season.

Summer in the Elbrus region is cool, with high humidity. More than a week of good weather is not necessary to observe. The maximum thermometer showed + 35 degrees at an altitude of 2 km, even higher, at around 3 km, and even less, a maximum of + 25.

After this mark, winter weather begins in October. There is a lot of precipitation. The height of the snow cover on average reaches 50-80 cm. The higher to the top, the deeper the snow. More snow covers are located on the north side. Southern thickness of snow cannot boast.

Spring comes to the territory of Elbrus only at the beginning of May. The summit is covered with snow all year round. Due to them, the mass of ice in glaciers is constantly growing.

Winter lasts for a long time, and at an altitude of 3 km the temperature drops to -12 degrees, the lowest temperature recorded at this point was -27 degrees.

ski resort

The largest ski resort "Elbrus Azau" was built in 1969 on the Azau glade, which is located at the foot of the majestic mountain. For the convenience of skiers, there are two cable cars: the old pendulum with 20-seater cabins and the new gondola, taking 8 people on board. Lift tickets can be purchased as a one-time or for the whole day. They also sell season tickets for the entire period of skiing (from 2 to 8 days). The cost also varies depending on the season. One ascent - 550 rubles, descent - 500. The most expensive subscription for 8 days will cost 12,700.

Ski slopes

There are 11 slopes on Elbrus for skiers of all levels: from beginners to professionals. The blue slopes are wider and gentler. The reds and blacks are for experienced riders, but they also fade into the blue, gentle slopes. A subscription to skiing from the mountain will cost from 500 to 850 rubles per day.

Perfectly organized holiday for children. For them there is a separate drag lift for 300 meters. An experienced instructor conducts classes with beginners, fun competitions and contests are often organized. There is a ski school where the child will be taught all the details of the correct and safe descent.

Infrastructure of the complexes

On the territory of the complex there are 38 hotels, cafes, restaurants, baths and saunas, ski equipment rental. There are shops and even a club. You can pay both in cash and by bank cards. Everything is done for the convenience of vacationers.

For conquerors of peaks there is an interesting complex called "Barrels". There, climbers can go through acclimatization, warm up, relax after a hard climb, have a snack and sleep.

It is located at an altitude of 3750 meters, at the end station of the Garabashi chairlift. Each "barrel" is designed for 6 people. There is everything you need: toiletries, bedding, warm blankets.

How to get there?

The best and closest way to the mountain is from Nalchik. There is an airport there, so you can fly in from different places. Further from the city to the Elbrus region, you can take a taxi or minibus number 17. Then you also need to go to Terskol by taxi.

On your car from Rostov-on-Don, you need to go along the M-4 highway, and before reaching Nalchik, turn onto A-158. The coordinates of Elbrus, which is described in the article, on the navigator are 43°18"56"N, 42°27"42"E.

Come any time of the year. Skiing is also possible in the middle of summer.