Mount Elbrus is a dormant volcano located in Russia. It is part of the Caucasus mountain range close to the border of Georgia. The mountain features two summits, which were both cheated from separate volcanoes.
Although some people dispute the boundaries between Asia and Europe, the majority of authorities state that Elbrus is located in Europe. The mountain is located about 40 miles (65 km) away from the city of Kislovodisk. Mount Elbrus features a continually ice-capped summit. The volcano is declared dormant with no eruptions on record.
Mount Elbrus was declared one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Russia on June 11, 2014. Visitors and potential travelers should discover and learn more about what makes the Mount Elbrus one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Russia.
What makes Mount Elbrus a natural wonder of Russia?
Statistically speaking, Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Russia and all of Europe. The highest summit reaches a peak of 18,510 feet (5,642 m) with the second peak reaching a height of 18,442 feet (5,621 m).
Although Mount Elbrus is part of the Caucasus mountain range, it manages to stand out as a mountain of its own. Mount Elbrus provides some of the most picturesque views from a variety of perspectives. The permanent snow or ice capped mountain creates an aesthetically beautiful image.
What are the best ways to see and experience Mount Elbrus?
The best way to see Mount Elbrus is from one of the scenic overlooks. You can Mt Elbrus from a number of different positions with each providing a unique but picturesque view.
The best way to experience Mount Elbrus is through a climb or trek. The easiest route is called the Normal Route, which provides visitors with a cable car and chairlift to make the ascent easier. If you launch for the summit before 2:00 in the morning, you should be able to ascend back down in time to catch the lift to the bottom.
The southern route is more common, easier and offers support. The northern route is more remote and hikers should plan on camping during the ascent and descent of the mountain.
What is Mount Elbrus weather like?
Mountain weather is always unpredictable and such is the case with Mount Elbrus. Weather tends to worsen in the afternoon as clouds have a tendency to set in. The worst condition is when fog sits in making it nearly impossible to navigate the mountain.
The temperatures at the base of Mount Elbrus will be around 68 to 77oF (20 to 25oC). The summit will vary ranging from -13 to 41oF (-25 to 5oC). The 41 degree temperatures are much more comfortable than the -13. There is a greater chance of these warmer temperatures during the months of July and August, but there are not guarantees.
When is the best time to visit Mount Elbrus?
The summer months of June through September are the time where climbing with success has the best chances. Of these months, July and August offer the driest and warmest weather making for the most comfortable climb. As noted above, you will have a great chance of having temperatures above freezing at the summit during July and August. It is a mountain with unpredictable weather and there are no guarantees.
How do you get to Mount Elbrus?
International travelers will typically fly to Moscow or Saint Petersburg airports and connect to a domestic carrier and fly to the city of Mineralnye Vody. The airport code for access to Russia and Europe’s tallest mountain is (MRV). You can also access the mountain using the train from Moscow, but you should plan on a 25 hour excursion.
Photography Tips for capturing Mount Elbrus
There are no specific insights or tips for photography at Mount Elbrus at this time. Tips and insights will be added as experienced or discovered. If you are a photographer and have insights to share for future photographers visiting Mount Elbrus, please submit them to Seven Wonders through the Contact Page.