Climb Mt Elbrus, Summit Of Europe

The adventure

Elbrus is a vast, twin-domed volcano in the Caucasus, its two snowy summits standing well clear of the jagged range along the Russia–Georgia border. The higher west summit, at 5,642 metres, is the highest point in Europe and one of the Seven Summits, and on a clear day the views stretch across a sea of peaks.

Climbs on the south side begin with cable cars from the Azau valley up onto the glacier, where you live in mountain huts and make acclimatisation hikes towards the Pastukhov Rocks. Summit night starts in the small hours, with a long, cold slog up the snow slope by head torch, often after a snowcat ride to save energy. Dawn throws the mountain's shadow across the clouds as you traverse to the saddle between the two summits, then make the last steep push to the top. The climbing is not technical; the wind, cold and altitude make up for it.

Why it’s epic

Standing on the highest point in Europe at 5,642 metres, one of the Seven Summits.
Sleeping on the glacier in huts at around 3,800 metres, including the famous Barrels.
A sunrise traverse to the saddle between the twin summits, at about 5,400 metres.
Views across the main Caucasus range towards Georgia.

What it is

Mount Elbrus, a dormant volcano, is the highest mountain in Europe at 5,642 metres.

How to do it

Guided climbs usually take the south route, with a cable car and huts for acclimatisation.

Top tip

Check UK Foreign Office advice on travel to Russia before planning a trip.

Need to know

The UK Foreign Office currently advises against travel to Russia, which also affects insurance, so check the latest advice before planning.
You'll need a Russian visa and a local operator to handle the border-zone paperwork.
Crampon and ice-axe skills are essential, and whiteouts on the upper slopes have caught out many climbers.
The season runs from June to September, with July and August usually the most settled.

Why it’s on my list

Not done yet. If you’ve done it and have tips, tell me about it.