Elbrus

Height: 5,642 m
Country:
Russia flagRussia

Standing at 5,642 meters, Mount Elbrus is the highest mountain in Europe and one of the Seven Summits, making it a must-climb destination for mountaineers around the world. Located in the Caucasus region of Russia, Elbrus mountain is a dormant stratovolcano renowned for its twin summits and vast glaciated slopes. Its iconic status and relatively non-technical routes make it an attractive challenge for climbers of all skill levels.

A climb up Elbrus typically follows the South Route, which offers a mix of high-altitude trekking and straightforward snow climbing. Climbers navigate glacier-covered terrain and ascend via fixed ropes on steeper sections near the summit. The ascent is physically demanding due to altitude and weather conditions, but reaching the top of Elbrus peak rewards climbers with breathtaking views of the surrounding Kaukasus Elbrus range, a rugged and pristine alpine landscape.

For adventurers seeking a unique challenge, the Elbrus volcano provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of the world’s great mountains. Whether you’re chasing the Seven Summits or exploring the cultural richness of the Caucasus, Elbrus mountain offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, high-altitude adventure, and a sense of accomplishment that will last a lifetime.

Climbing Elbrus

Prepare for an adventure climbing Elbrus. This overview provides essential details on routes, difficulty, costs, and the best times to go, helping you plan a successful expedition.

Difficulty

  • PD: Not very hard (alpine grade 2)

When to go

  • June to August

Pictures from climbing Elbrus

These are pictures taken while climbing Elbrus. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of mountaineering Elbrus, to help the community of climbers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (there own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.

Elbrus mountain guides

Guide links

These guides offer organised climbs for Elbrus. Compare each trip - pricing, reviews, and key details to help you choose the right guide. To explore more options / routes, check out our full Guides Directory.
We've carefully selected these independent guides based on their expertise with Elbrus. Compare their offerings, from group sizes and equipment inclusion to trip duration and support services. Each guide brings their own unique approach, so you can find the perfect match for your adventure. Click through to see full details and connect directly with any guide that interests you.

Elbrus Itinerary

Climbers start at Terskol or Azau Valley, then ascend via cable car to Garabashi Station before staying at Barrels Hut (or Diesel Hut) as their primary high camp. Acclimatization hikes to Pastukhov Rocks are standard before the summit push, which is made from camp early in the morning.

base-camp
Base Camp (Terskol or Azau Valley)

Located in Terskol or the Azau Valley, this is where climbers prepare, acclimatize, and organize gear before heading up the mountain.
2,500 m

high-camp
Garabashi Station (Cable Car Terminus)

The end of the cable car route, used as an access point to higher camps. Some climbers briefly stop here before moving up.
3,800 m

high-camp
Barrels Hut (or Diesel Hut)

A common accommodation area on the mountain, often chosen for acclimatization and as a staging camp for the climb.
3,700 m

high-camp
Pastukhov Rocks

A critical acclimatization point and rest stop during the summit push. Climbers often test their pace and condition here.
4,800 m

summit
Summit of Mount Elbrus

The highest peak in Europe, reached after a steep and challenging ascent, offering spectacular views of the Caucasus.
5,642 m

Elbrus route

Explore the 3D route map for a realistic view of the ascent to Elbrus. This interactive map provides a close-up look at key points like base camp and high-altitude camps along the way. For those planning their own expeditions, it offers a helpful overview of the mountain's terrain and surroundings.

- Barrels Hut and Diesel Hut are essentially interchangeable as accommodation options. - If using Garabashi Station, it’s usually for a very short rest or as a logistics hub, not a separate overnight stop.

Elbrus Videos

Get inspired by these incredible videos capturing the experience of climbing Elbrus. From route highlights to summitsummit views, these clips showcase the mountain’s beauty and the challenges it presents. Have your own Elbrus video? We'd love for you to share it with the community to inspire future climbers.

Elbrus Summit view

What you can see from the summit of Elbrus. Click and pan around the map to explore, and zoom in/out to see the names of neighbouring mountains.

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