What does Mount Elbrus mean? The seven highest mountain peaks of the six continents of the earth

Here they go snowboarding and skiing, tourists from all over the world come to the mountain in order to be at the highest point in Europe or to follow the routes at the base mountain range... People come here for new impressions, incredible sensations, pristine nature... It is simply impossible to visit the top of the Great Mountain and remain the same.

But what do we actually know about Elbrus?

From the course of geography, it vaguely emerges that the height of Mount Elbrus in meters 5642, it was her that we tried to remember, drawing the borders of Europe on a contour map.

In this article, we want to remind readers of the most interesting facts about Elbrus and just tell you more about this ancient volcano.

Elbrus is the highest point in Europe.

Geography lesson: Mount Elbrus

What do we know about Elbrus from the lessons of geography and Wikipedia?

This is an ancient extinct volcano (it began its formation two to three million years ago), located in the Caucasus on the border of Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia, the height of Elbrus (5642 m) is usually denoted by the highest - Western - peak, and one and a half kilometers from it there is the Eastern Peak, which is only 11 meters behind in height, between them lies the Sedlovina Pass (5416 m).

From the time of its formation to the present day, Elbrus, under the influence of various natural disasters, completely changed its shape up to ten times.

It's hard to believe, but various earthquakes, landscape changes, precipitation, winds and other "misfortunes" erased the mountain to the ground, but then, erupting with renewed vigor, Elbrus again turned into a huge mountain.

It is believed that ultimately the “youngest” crater, which we now know as the Eastern Summit, remained active.

23 glaciers rest on the slopes of Elbrus, they give rise to such rivers as the Kuban, Baksan and Malka. A considerable concern of ecologists is caused by the melting of glaciers against the background of a general deterioration of the ecological situation on the planet.

Elbrus is considered an easy mountain for climbing, but this is a deceptive impression. We will try to consider in detail the biggest misconceptions about climbing Elbrus in another article.

It is worth talking about the weather on the slopes separately: in summer, at the foot of the ancient volcano, the temperature can be about + 22-25 C °, and at the peak at the same time it will be up to -27 ° C. In addition, the ancient volcano is famous for its abrupt weather changes: experienced guides try to go out with groups on the ascent after dark (at 3 or 4 in the morning) in order to have time to climb and descend with the group before lunch, when the sun is shining and the visibility is excellent. For the entire time of observations at the Elbrus meteorological station (altitude 4250 m), not a single rain was recorded: precipitation falls only in the form of snow. February usually acts as the coldest month on the mountain, and it is better to conquer the summit in August, when all cracks and cracks appear on the surface of the ice.

Scientists are still arguing: is it worth expecting the awakening of a great volcano? Modern research and high-precision measuring instruments indicate activity in the bowels of the mountain (at a depth of more than six kilometers), but this is normal for a "former" active volcano and scientists are in no hurry to transfer Elbrus to the list of active volcanoes.

The magma cooling in the heart of the mountain saturates the springs that come to the surface with carbon dioxide. This is how the famous healing (and simply beautiful) narzans are formed.

Climbing Mount Elbrus

Elbrus infrastructure consists of three lines of cable cars, several shelters and hotels.

The A158 motorway goes to the very foot of Elbrus.

It is worth noting that there is a developed infrastructure only on the southern side of the mountain, while the northern side boasts only a few huts, where climbers or Emergency Situations Ministry employees stay if necessary.

People come to Elbrus, of course, not only for the sake of climbing. There are wonderful slopes, which were chosen by skiers and snowboarders, and the magnificent trails of the Elbrus region beckon here backpackers with very different training.

In order to reach the mark of 3780 meters, it is enough to use one of the branches of the cable car.

Let's take a look at all types of "transport" available to tourists on Elbrus.

The first road (rope-pendulum) appeared on the slopes back in 1969. On it it was possible to climb to a height of almost 3,000 (Krugozor station). In 1976, its length increased by 500 meters and extreme point became the station "Mir".

A chairlift line was extended from the Mir station to the Gara-Bashi station. In the early 2000s, in parallel old job start new line gondola type. Building new road completed at the end of 2015, the launch of the last section (up to Gara-Bashi).

Thus, you can climb along a new line from start to finish, or with "transfers" along the old lines.

In addition to cable car lines, there are drag lifts on Elbrus.

Winter sports lovers Elbrus attracts a variety of slopes for descents and, of course, the stunning beauty of nature.

Shelters on Elbrus

We take a look at six shelters available to hikers who decide to climb the Great Mountain.

To begin with, let's define the word "shelter", and if we are absolutely precise, then we are interested in "high-mountain shelter".

Alpine shelter Is a solid shelter (house or hut), which serves primarily to provide reliable protection against difficult weather conditions... Such buildings are being built not only for travelers; lifeguards and shepherds are actively using shelters.

We will go up the mountain and "stop" a little at each shelter.

So, our story ended at the mark in 3780 meters above sea level, at the terminal station of the cable car "Gara-Bashi", it is here that shelter "Bochki".

The shelter received this name because of the shape of the houses (they really look like barrels). The house can accommodate up to six people.

All amenities and kitchen are located in a separate house.

For a comfortable stay on the territory, it is recommended to take with you toilet paper, wet sanitary napkins, bags for things, vessels for water (thermos and / or flask), slippers, a belt bag for documents and valuables.

"Hasan's Shelter"
A little further from the Gara-Bashi station is the Hasan Shelter (height 3750 meters). These are three cabins, which can accommodate 12 people. The kitchen, as usual, is located in a separate trailer, equipped with gas stoves. A stream flows nearby, which is suitable for use in the summer months, the rest of the time as drinking water tourists and climbers use the melted snow.

Shelter "LeapRus"
In 2012, the LeapRus shelter was opened (or as all press releases say "the highest hotel in Europe"). High-tech houses, similar to parts of a spaceship, are equipped with the latest technology.

This is perhaps the most expensive of the options we are considering, but underfloor heating, delicious breakfasts, 24/7 electricity and full service might interest some of our readers.

The possibility of staying in rooms for up to 12 people is available, a separate area for cooking. The cost of living may include breakfast or full three meals a day.

In general, the main feature of this high-mountain eco-hotel is the complete release of the tourist's head from everyday problems - literally all of them can be solved by administrators.

The most famous shelter on Elbrus can be considered Shelter of Eleven

Immediately, we note that the famous "Shelter of Eleven" after the fire was never restored (later it was completely dismantled) and now construction is underway modern hotel with the same name. However, the terms of its commissioning are still floating.

Shelter "Boiler room"
On the site of the former boiler house of the famous Shelter, the Boiler Shelter was built. The two-storey building is located 1.5 hours walk from the Gara-Bashi station at a height 4100 meters. The territory can accommodate up to 50 people. There are rooms for a company of 4 to 6 people and a large room for 12 beds. Electricity here is supplied from a generator and “turns on on a schedule for several hours a day (there may be situations when there is no electricity at all; the generator does not work in winter).

The main source of water is snow, in the summer months - streams from the glacier.

Shuvalov's shelter (Sherapi hut)
On the southern slope of Elbrus there is a small building for 20 people. Sherapi shelter offers accommodation in rooms for 6 or 8 beds. The kitchen has gas stoves, but there is no electricity at all. The source of water is a glacier in summer or unlimited snow the rest of the time.

Shelter "Maria"

The Maria Shelter is located just a few meters from the Shuvalov Shelter. The conditions are almost like at the "Boiler Room": a kitchen with gas, electricity for several hours and only in summer, access to water - glacier or snow.

Shelter "Esen"
The shelter for 20 places is located between the former Shelter of Eleven and Shuvalov's shelter, at an altitude of 4100 meters.

Conditions, as in the rest of the shelters: kitchen, gas, water from the available sources on the mountain.

Climbing routes to Elbrus

(according to various sources - there are about a dozen of them), we will consider the most popular on this moment routes. Separately, we note that Elbrus is deceptively considered one of the most simple mountains for climbing. We wholeheartedly affirm that this impression is very deceptive and the ascent can become a real test, and for some, even the last "adventure" in life. The forces of nature are merciless and unpredictable. We stand for a responsible attitude to the process of preparation, acclimatization and safety of the group and do our best to convey the idea to our readers: self-climbing Elbrus or climbing as part of an unprepared group is DANGEROUS for your life.

The normal acclimatization period for Elbrus is considered to be 8-10 days.... An attempt to climb the summit without preliminary preparation of the body for the difficult conditions of high altitudes is fraught with catastrophic consequences for the body and poses a danger not only for the climber, but also for the entire group. Try to plan your ascent, taking into account the time it takes to acclimatize the body, or rather contact the managers of the My Way Tourist Club and do not think about anything like that. The mountains do not tolerate vanity.

Classic route (Climbing the southern slope)

One of the most popular routes for climbing Elbrus. Such a rise is qualified as 2A. Groups usually start from the terminal station of the Gara-Bashi cable car, then overcome a difficult climb (the road has almost no deviations) to an altitude of about 5000 meters above sea level. On the way there is an opportunity to stay at the "Boiler room" shelter. At an elevation of about 5,000 meters, the route deviates slightly from the initial axis, and tourists come to the saddle (5416 meters). From the saddle, the groups climb one of the peaks, according to the original route.

The average ascent time from the "Kotelnaya" shelter to one of the peaks is taken as 6 hours for a prepared group.

Classic route (Climbing the northern slope of Elbrus)

This route is also classified as 2A. The starting point of the route is the base camp (2500 meters). A transfer is usually organized to the camp or you can get there on your own. From a height of 2500 the group ascends to the mark of 3700 (Northern Shelter), then there is an opportunity to traverse to the saddle (5416 meters) and climb to the Western summit or through the Lenz rocks to conquer the Eastern summit of Elbrus.

This route is considered more difficult due to the poorly developed tourist infrastructure of the northern slope.

Achkyeryakol lava flow route (eastern ridge)

This route is considered one of the most difficult. The group starts from the village of Elbrus, moves along the gorge, pass and glacier Irikchat, where the Achkeryakol lava flow begins, the movement along which ends at the Eastern summit of Elbrus.

We would like to remind readers once again that climbing Elbrus cannot be considered an “easy walk”. The climate at altitude is very changeable, it gets dark very quickly in the mountains and the level of visibility drops to almost zero in a matter of hours. In addition, snowfall, which is very common here, can also reduce visibility, which can lead to loss of landmarks.

My Way Tourclub organizes in the most favorable periods for this, in compliance with all safety regulations. Our hikes are registered with special services, the group is accompanied only by the most experienced guides and instructors with many years of climbing experience, as well as employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

We have specially prepared for everyone who wants to get acquainted with the Great Mountain, which can also serve as an excellent period for acclimatization before the subsequent ascent to one of the peaks.

Mount Elbrus fascinates not only climbers, but also ordinary travelers. From year to year, tourists come to the foot of the mountain to see the greatness and power of the peak. Few remain indifferent and disappointed. This mountain, shrouded in secrets and legends, incredible ascents of the past and present, make it even more attractive and popular.

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Geographic characteristics

Elbrus is marked on the map of Russia, between the two republics - Karachay-Cherkess and... The nearest town at the foot of Mount Tyrnauz is the town of Elbrus.

The summit has two highest peaks, the height of the eastern peak is 5621 meters, and the height of the western one is 5642 meters. The distance between them is 1500 meters. The average steepness of the slopes is 35 degrees. Academician V.K. Vishnevsky was the first to determine the height of Elbrus, and it was 5421 meters.

23 glaciers flow down from the slopes of the mountain. The area of ​​glaciers is 134 square kilometers... The maximum length of glaciers is about 7-9 km. Their total area has decreased by 19% over the past 100–150 years. The glacier that flows into the Kuban valley has decreased by 33%. Elbrus glaciers feed on three large Caucasian and Stavropol rivers:

• Kuban;
• Malku;
• Baksan.

Until now, the exact boundaries between Asia and Europe have not been determined, so the mountain is often referred to as the highest mountain peak in Europe and equated to the "Seven Peaks" mountains. The two-peaked stratovolcano was formed on an ancient volcanic base. It is believed that these two peaks are completely independent volcanoes and do not depend on each other. Both peaks have their own distinct shape and a well-defined crater.

Finding a mountain on the map will not be difficult, since today a wide variety of maps and public routes With detailed descriptions.

general description

Elbrus - height which is famous for its ancient history... The age of the mountain is determined by the condition of the upper part. Its top has a vertical break. The last eruption of Russia's highest peak occurred around the 1950s. e.

The riddle of the name of the mountain

Where is Elbrus located? Perhaps almost every student in the country will answer this question. But where the name of the mountain comes from, few people know. It is worth noting that the peak has more than one name and has a total of about ten.

Today it is very difficult to understand which name appeared earlier. If we talk about the modern name, then according to one version, it comes from the Iranian word "aytibares". Translated, it sounds like a high or shiny mountain. The summit in the Karachai-Balkarian language is called "Mingi - tau", which in Russian means "a mountain of thousands". But there is also another name for the Balkars - "Minge-tau", which translates as "saddled mountain." Modern representatives of this community call Elbrus - "a mountain around which the wind whirls" ("Elbrus - tau").

Names in other languages ​​are also common:

• “Jin padishah” - “lord of spirits” (Turkic);
• "Orfi - tub" - "mountain of the blessed" (Abkhazian);
• "Yal - buz" - "snow mane" (Georgian).

Local climate

Under the influence of seasonal air masses, the climate of the mountainous region is formed. Climatic conditions characteristic of mountainous terrain... The Elbrus region is characterized by the circularity of good and bad weather.

In summer, the cycle is a week... In the first days of June, the weather is worse than in July. The climate during this period is humid and cool. The temperature at an altitude of 2 thousand meters sometimes reaches +35 degrees, and at higher altitudes - +25 degrees. Autumn begins at the end of August. Winter comes already in October, at an altitude of over 3 thousand meters. At this mark average temperature is - 12 degrees. The absolute minimum is fixed at minus 27 degrees. Spring comes only at the beginning of May. During this period, snow is actively melting at elevations of 3 thousand meters. It often descends in the form of wet avalanches.

The higher the height, the thicker the cover is. So, 60–80 cm is the average thickness of the top cover. There is more snow on the northern slopes than on the southern ones. At higher altitudes, eternal snowfields and firn fields remain. Due to them, the mass of all Elbrus glaciers is increasing.

Volcanic activity

Elbrus is considered an extinct volcano... When studying the mountain, geologists examined its layers, which contain the ash of the volcano. It has been proven that this particular ash has been formed since ancient times as a result of eruptions. Having studied the first layer, scientists have found that the first eruption of the summit occurred about 45 thousand years ago. e. The next - the second layer, formed after the eruption of the Kazbek volcano. It was also formed about 40 thousand years ago.

Today it has been proven for sure that it was the second eruption that was the most powerful, even by modern standards. People - Neanderthals living at the foot of the mountain at that time, were forced to leave the sedentary places in order to look for more favorable conditions for living. It has been established that the last time the volcano erupted was 2 thousand years ago. e.

The history of climbing Elbrus

Back in 1829, the first conquest of Elbrus was completed. The leader of the climbing expedition is Georgy Emmanuel. Famous physicists, zoologists, botanists, geologists and other scientists were members of the scientific expedition. It was they who became the pioneers and conquerors of the highest peak of the Earth - the eastern part of Elbrus.

In 1868, a re-ascent was carried out by an English group of scientists to eastern part the mountains. In the same year, the first conquest of Mount Kazbek was completed. The western summit of Elbrus was conquered in 1874 by alpinists from England, the expedition was guided by A. Sottaev.

During a scientific expedition to map the Caucasus in 1890-1896, an ascent was made to the eastern and western mountains of Elbrus. The expedition was headed by a Russian scientist, military topographer A.V. Pastukhov. It was he who left behind detailed maps terrain and mountains Elbrus - photo. For the exploration of the Caucasus and Elbrus, a part of the Elbrus rocks (southern part) was named in honor of Pastukhov. The height of the Pastukhov Rocks is 4800 meters.

In 1891, the shortest ascent time in history was recorded - only 8 hours... The ascent began at the foot of the southern slopes and ended at the eastern summit.

Swiss climbers, for the first time in history, carried out the so-called Elbrus Cross in 1910. They climbed two peaks at the same time, as part of one expedition.

The first woman to conquer Elbrus - A. Japaridze (1925).

Soviet climbers made the first winter ascent in 1934. And in 1939, the first ski slope from Elbrus was carried out by the Moscow skier V. Gippenreiter.

From the first part of the twentieth century, climbing Elbrus began to be the most massive. So, in 1928, 32 groups of climbers carried out the ascent, in 1935 about 2016 people visited Elbrus, and in 1960 - 1395 climbers.

In 1963 he climbed on a motorcycle Berberashvili - Soviet athlete... In 1997, already by car, the whole team conquered the summit. And in 2015, the Russian athlete A. Rodichev climbed the mountain with a barbell that weighed 75 kg.

Climbing Elbrus in 2016, entered in the Guinness Book of Records. Russian climbers A. Kuimov and S. Baranov ascended by means of an ATV to a height of 5642 meters.

In our time, it will not be difficult to climb Elbrus. For tourists and travelers, the path is made easier by shelters - parking lots and cable cars.

Starting from an altitude of 4000 meters, the steepness of Elbrus in some places reaches 35-40 degrees. There are steep sections up to 750 meters high.

Below the glaciers on the mountain, there are alpine meadows, under which coniferous forests grow. North slope more rocky.

Elbrus was formed more than a million years ago, before it was active volcano, and disputes still do not subside whether it is extinguished or simply asleep. The version of a dormant volcano is supported by the fact that hot masses are stored in its depths and heat up thermal springs up to +60 ° C. In the depths of Elbrus, the famous mineral waters of the resorts are born and saturated North Caucasus- Kislovodsk, Pyatigorsk, Essentuki, Zheleznovodsk. The mountain is composed of alternating layers of ash, lava and tuff. The last time the giant erupted was in AD 50. e.

The climate of the Elbrus region is mild, the humidity is low, due to which frosts are easily tolerated. But the climate of the volcano itself is harsh, similar to the Arctic. Average winter temperatures range from -10 degrees below zero at the foot of the mountain, to –25 ° C at 2000-3000 meters, and –40 ° C at the top. Precipitation on Elbrus is frequent and abundant, mainly snow.

In summer, the air warms up to +10 ° C - up to an altitude of 2500 meters, and at an altitude of 4200 meters even in July it is never warmer than –14 ° C.

The weather is very unstable: a clear, windless day can instantly turn into a snowy storm with a strong wind.

The history of the conquest of Elbrus

Thought of climbing legendary mountain 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 an expedition of the Russian Academy of Sciences, but from the whole group only a guide made it to the eastern summit. After 45 years, the British, accompanied by 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 Balkar hunter Akhiy Sattaev, who climbed the peaks of Elbrus 9 times, and he made the last ascent at the age of 121.

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

Today, Mount Elbrus is a Mecca for climbers, skiers and freeriders.

Skiing

Elbrus is considered the most ski 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 trails and 12 kilometers of cable cars in the mountains. Both experienced skiers and beginners can ski on the slopes, for whom there are specially designated 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 ski resorts Austria, Switzerland and France.

There are three lines of lifts for pendulum, chairlift and towing roads in the public skiing area.

Those who wish can use the services of a high-mountain taxi - snowcat, which will take you to the Shelter of Eleven or to the Pastukhov Rocks (4800 meters), from where unmatched views of the peaks of the Caucasian Ridge open.

The resort "Staryi Krugozor" invites fans of long descents to the longest track of Elbrus with a length of 2 kilometers and a vertical drop of 650 meters.

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

Experienced snowboarders and skiers can go down 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 there are cafes, billiard rooms, saunas. You can also have a snack at every station on the slopes of the mountain. In the village of Terskol there is an area for playing paintball.

The ski season on the slopes of the five-thousander lasts from mid-November to April. It happens that strong snow cover lasts on some routes and 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 classic path from south side does not require special mountaineering training from tourists. People of average physical fitness will be able to take part in such a hike. Tourists can use the cable car that brings the conquerors of Elbrus to the “Bochki” shelter, located at an altitude of 3750. There are restaurants, bars and hotels of the shelter for guests of the Caucasus, where you can relax and refresh yourself before throwing to the top.

The northern route, which follows the route of the first ascent, is of the same difficulty. But, unlike the southern route, along the way you will not encounter shelters or cable car, which will add extreme 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 subject only to 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 ascents 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 are mandatory: transfer from the airport of arrival and back, accommodation in a shelter or at the base, meals, instructor services. Additionally, the services of porters and cooks, equipment rental, medical insurance can be paid.

All participants in a successful climb receive a certificate "Conqueror of Elbrus".

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

sights

Tourists will leave an indelible impression on a hike along the Chegem Gorge with its magnificent pine forests, harsh canyons and amazing waterfalls falling from the rocks.

The picturesque Baksan Gorge originates in the glaciers of Elbrus. If you have time, be sure to stroll through its green valleys framed by mighty snow-capped peaks. The gorge has its own attractions - the "Grieving Highlander" monument and the geophysical observatory studying the Sun. At the Narzanov Glade, you will see rusty soil - 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.

The Dzhily-Su tract, located on the northern slope of Elbrus, is known for its healing mineral springs. Warm waters flow directly from the rock and are collected in an artificial bath, renewing every 10 minutes. Swimming is organized according to the schedule. Local narzans have a beneficial effect on the heart, nervous system, and heal some skin diseases and allergies. In total, there are 14 springs in the tract, each of which has its own specialization: "kidney", "eye", "hepatic" and others. In Jily-Su there are stunning waterfalls - the famous forty-meter giant Sultan and Karakaya-Su 25 meters high. The Valley of Castles, Valley of Stone Mushrooms and German airfield are popular among tourists.

On Mount Cheget, at an altitude of 2719 meters, it is equipped observation deck where, sitting in rented sun loungers, you can admire endlessly majestic nature North Caucasus. Those wishing to refresh themselves are met by the cafe "Ai".

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

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

Residence

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

Recreation center "Elbrus" awaits 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 hotels "Vershina", "Seven Peaks", "Antau".

For those who make the ascent, shelters have been built that 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. The more comfortable Liprus Shelter welcomes guests at an altitude of 3911 meters. The highest hotel in Russia, the Shelter of the 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 shuttle to the ski slopes.

Inexpensive housing offers private sector Elbrus villages - Tegenekli, Elbrus and Terskol.

At the service of tourists who want to climb to the peaks 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 need and what things you need to take with you.

Participants in ascents of any difficulty must be prepared for the fact that on the way to the top of Elbrus unfavorable natural factors await you: cold, wind, thin air, increased solar radiation, the release of sulfurous gases and lack of visibility in inclement weather. You will have to carry a heavy backpack and make long hikes. You will spend the night in tents, and cook your own food on gas burners. Soberly assess your health in order to avoid accidents.

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 terminate or shorten the tour for individual participants of the ascent 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 to nature and local residents.

Tourists between 16 and 18 years old must provide written permission from their parents to climb. Children over 14 years old are allowed on easy routes with their parents.

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

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

How to get there

By train or plane to the cities of Kislovodsk, Mineral water, Nalchik or Cherkessk, from where to the right place a taxi or a bus will take you to the Elbrus region. If you arrived with organized group, you will be provided with a transfer.

The highest peak of Russia belongs to mountain system Caucasus mountains... This is the two-headed Elbrus, located on the border of two Caucasian republics - Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria. The highest mountain in Russia is 5642 meters high. Some researchers have assigned it the title of the highest in Europe, but this is not entirely true. Alpine Mont Blanc (4807) is really inferior in height to Elbrus. But Elbrus is located north of the Main Caucasian ridge, along which the border of Europe and Asia passes. The lateral ridge, to which Mount Elbrus belongs, definitely belongs to Asia.

Mount Elbrus - photo

The first mention of the highest peak of Russia in historical literature can be found in the "Book of Victories". In the descriptions of Tamerlane's military campaigns, there is information that the "great lame man" climbed Elbrus in order to pray there.

At the top of Elbrus

Mount Elbrus - photo

The Caucasus also attracted conquerors at a later time. During the Great Patriotic War, the German special service "Ahnenerbe", which was engaged in the study of paranormal phenomena and occult forces, showed great interest in the Elbrus region. During the battle for the Caucasus, a special group of mountain riflemen of the Edelweiss division was allocated, who in 1942 placed German flags on both peaks of Elbrus. Soviet troops removed them in February 1943, and the battle for Shelter of the Eleven went down in history as the highest battle in the mountains of the Second World War. Until now, frozen bodies of the dead and various ammunition are found in the Caucasian glaciers.

Elbrus Is an extinct volcano with two peaks. They are connected by a saddle at an altitude of about 5300 meters. The lower peak, which has a height of 5621 meters, is considered by geologists to be younger in age. It has retained a clear crater and a regular cone shape. The older summit of Mount Elbrus, which lies in a trap, has been significantly destroyed.

Two peaks of Elbrus - photo

The greatest peak of the Caucasus last erupted around AD 50. This does not allow the volcano to be called extinct, since volcanoes that have not erupted in the memory of mankind are called such. Volcanologists prefer to call it dormant and believe that the peaks of its activity occurred in periods of 30, 100 and 220 thousand years ago. The structure of volcanic ash, cooled lava and tuff, arranged in layers, is also characteristic.

Mount Elbrus - photo

Mount Elbrus - photo

The slopes of Elbrus, relatively gentle at the bottom, above 4000 meters become steep up to 35 degrees. It is easier to ascend from the east or south, as there are a lot of steep sections on the northern and western slopes with elevation differences up to 700 meters.

Scheme of the route of ascent to Elbrus

All the Caucasus is characterized by altitudinal zonation, which is expressed in alternation natural areas when climbing from the foot to the top. On Elbrus, the snow line is located at an altitude of 3500 meters. Alpine meadows end here and above there are only rocks, snow and glaciers. Since the snow does not melt above this line, the mountain always has a snow-white cap, which allows us to call it Little Antarctica. This cap is clearly visible in the photo of Mount Elbrus.

Mount Elbrus - photo

The total area of ​​glaciers is 135 square kilometers... Among the largest are Bolshoi and Maly Azau, as well as Terskop. They serve as the basis for feeding the Caucasus, including the Kuban. Numerous tongues of glaciers descend into valleys, where they melt, leaving deposits.
The first documented ascent to the eastern, lower peak took place in 1829. Kabardian Kilar Khashirov, who served as a guide for the Russian expedition, ascended it on July 22.

The height of Mount Elbrus was a great irritant for climbers, and in 1874 the highest point of the Caucasus was conquered by the team of Florence Grove. A simple hunter Akhiya Sottayev became a true record holder in ascents. He was not only the first to visit both peaks, but also made nine ascents, and the last one at a more than venerable age. At that time he was 121 years old!

Elbrus is a popular tourist area. The volcanic heat generated hot mineral springs... Their temperature reaches 60 degrees. Bathing in the springs is used in the prevention and treatment of many types of diseases.

High-mountain hotel "Shelter of eleven"

These places are popular with ski lovers. They have at their disposal numerous trails equipped with lifts. On most of them, the season lasts from October to May, but on the peaks above 3800 meters, skiing is possible all year round. There are many extreme sports fans. They get to the very peaks of the mountains using helicopters and go down on skis or snowboards. It is not uncommon for such extreme athletes to become the culprits of avalanches.

Barrel shelter

The tourist attraction of Elbrus has increased after the Sochi Olympics. It was used to attract not only Russian, but also foreign tourists and winter sports enthusiasts to the region. This was partly successful, and for foreigners Mount Elbrus is now associated not only with the highest point of Russia, but also with high-quality ski slopes.

Thus, the height of Mount Elbrus, which is more than five and a half kilometers, can become not only a part of geographic statistics, but also a starting point for the development of an entire region.

Views from the top of Elbrus

Elbrus is a mountain that actually knows how to fascinate, both climbers seeking to conquer the next peak, and the most ordinary travelers who come to its foot every year to feel all the power and strength of the stone peak. And of course no one gets disappointed.

This article will tell not only about which mountains Elbrus is located in, but will also acquaint readers with its features, the secret of its name, myths and legends.

Section 1. General description of the geographic object

Elbrus is a mountain that is rightfully considered highest point Russian Federation, located in the northern part on the border of Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria.

Due to the fact that the exact border has not yet been established between Europe and Asia, sometimes the mountain is equated with the highest European mountain peak and is referred to as the "Seven Peaks". Perhaps some time will pass and geographers will finally resolve this dispute, but so far it is known for certain that Elbrus is a mountain, which is a so-called two-peaked stratovolcano. Its cone-shaped peaks were formed on an ancient volcanic base, and from a geological point of view, both peaks are completely independent volcanoes, each of which has a classical shape and a well-defined crater.

Caucasus Mountains ... Elbrus ... These places are actually famous for their ancient history. Few people know that age is determined by the condition of the upper part, which, for example, in highest peak Russia has been destroyed by a vertical rift. It was also possible to establish the date of the last eruption: it happened approximately in the 50s of A.D. e.

Section 2. The secret of the name of the peak

Perhaps, the question of where Mount Elbrus is located, albeit a little thoughtful, will be answered by an ordinary average schoolboy, but few know about the etymology of the name.

In general, it should be noted that this peak has several names at once. In total, there are more than a dozen of them.

Today it is quite difficult to determine which of the names appeared earlier and which later. The modern name of this mountain, according to one version, comes from the Iranian "Aitibares", which in Russian means "high mountain" or "shiny" (a variant from the Zend language). On the Karachai-Balkarian peak they call "Mingi-tau", which is translated into Russian as "a mountain of thousands." Nevertheless, there are Balkars who call it a little differently - "Minge-tau", which means "saddled mountain". Modern representatives of this ethnic group also say "Elbrus-tau" - "a mountain around which the wind revolves."

Among the many names of the stratovolcano, the name "Jinpadishah" is also distinguished, which in translation from the Turkic sounds like "lord of spirits", "Orfi-tub" (Abkhazian) - "mountain of the blessed", or "Yal-buz" (Georgian) - "snow mane".

Section 3. What is the height of Mount Elbrus?

Perhaps this question at least once in a lifetime interested many curious people. But the answer is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. Why? It's all about the peculiarities of its structure.

As noted above, Elbrus is a mountain consisting of two cone-shaped peaks. The height of the western one is 5642 meters, and the eastern one is 5621 meters. The saddle separating them rises 5,300 meters above the surface, and the distance from each other is about 3,000 meters.

For the first time the size of Elbrus was determined by the Russian academician V.K.Vishnevsky in 1813.

Recall that today the highest peak in the world is considered (Chomolungma), the height of which is 8848 meters, in comparison with which our mountain peak looks tiny.

Section 4. Severity of the local climate

Mount Elbrus ... Climbing its top is often dreamed of by both experienced climbers and beginners. However, this can by no means be done at any time. The most favorable is considered summer period, July August.

At this time, the weather is the most stable and safer for visiting such heights. The air temperature in summer rarely drops below -9 ° C, although during the rise it may well drop to -30 ° C.

From October to April, there is a harsh and cold winter in these places. In the cold season, visiting the peak is almost impossible, and climbing it is tantamount to suicide.

Section 5. Volcanic activity

Elbrus is amazing and unique. It takes too long to describe the mountain, as more and more interesting features are discovered each time.

In this article, we will only touch on the least known ones. Geological studies of this extinct volcano showed the presence of layers containing volcanic ash that formed as a result of ancient eruptions. According to the first layer, scientists have proved that the very first eruption of Elbrus occurred about 45 thousand years ago. The second layer was formed after Kazbek. It happened about 40 thousand years ago.

Now it is known for certain that it was after this second, most powerful even by modern standards, eruptions, the Neanderthals, who settled in local caves, left these lands and went in search of more favorable conditions for life.

The most last eruption Elbrus volcano occurred about 2000 years ago (50s AD).

Section 6. Legends of Elbrus

In general, the mountains of the Caucasus, Elbrus in particular, are shrouded in many of the most amazing and mysterious legends and myths.

One of these fairy tales tells that in time immemorial there lived a father and a son - Kazbek and Elbrus. Both of them fell in love with one beautiful girl named Mashuk. Only that girl could not make a choice between two glorious heroes. For a long time, father and son competed, not wanting to yield to each other, and a deadly duel ensued between them. They fought until Elbrus defeated his father. But, realizing his terrible deed, the son turned gray with grief. He no longer wanted the love gained at the price of the life of a loved one, and Elbrus turned away from the beautiful Mashuk, a little later stabbing himself with the same dagger with which he had killed his father.

The beautiful Mashuk cried long and bitterly over the knights and said that there were no such heroes in the whole earth, and that it was hard for her to live in this world without seeing them.

The god heard her groaning, and turned Kazbek and Elbrus into high mountains, more beautiful and higher than which in the Caucasus no longer exist. He turned the beauty Mashuk into a smaller mountain. And now, from century to century, from day to day, a stone girl stands and looks at the mighty peaks, without deciding which of the two heroes is closer and dearer to her stone heart ...

Section 7. History of great conquests

In 1829, led by the head of the scientific expedition Georgy Emmanuel, the first ascent of Elbrus was made. The members of this expedition were mainly representatives of the scientific community: physicists, botanists, zoologists, geologists, etc. They conquered the eastern part of Elbrus and went down in history as the discoverers of one of the largest peaks of our planet Earth.

The first to climb Elbrus was Kilar Khachirov - the guide. A few years later, she was conquered and more high peak this mountain is the western one. An expedition organized by English climbers led by Florence Grove made a trek to the western part of Elbrus in 1874. The very first person who climbed to its top was also a guide, this is a Balkarian, Akhii Sottaev was a member of the first expedition.

Later, a man appeared who managed to conquer both peaks of Elbrus. It was the Russian topographer A.V. Pastukhov. In 1890 he was able to climb the western peak, and in 1896 - to the eastern one. The same person made detailed maps of Elbrus.

It should be noted that the stratovolcano is still the most popular mountain among climbers from all over the world. To climb to its top, climbers spend on average about one week.

But nowadays you can use the cable car, which greatly facilitates the journey and saves time.

At an altitude of about 3750 m there is a shelter "Bochki", from where the ascent to Elbrus usually begins. This shelter has six-seater insulated barrel-shaped trailers and a specially equipped kitchen. At the level of 4,100 meters, there is the world's highest hotel, the Shelter of the Eleven.

Section 8. Stone mushrooms on Elbrus

Elbrus is a mountain that can captivate travelers with its natural features, for example, unique rock formations called Stone mushrooms.

Until now, no one knows why these stones are popularly called mushrooms, and nowhere in the Caucasus are such sculptures observed anymore. On a small flat area (250 x 100 m) a couple of dozen of these "mushrooms" are picturesquely scattered. In many of them you can see depressions.

Perhaps our ancestors used them for some kind of cult purposes. Particularly impressive are the stones that resemble a face looking up. Many believe that this is a place with a very strong positive energy, and even the weather here is very abnormal.

Section 9. Museum of Defense of the Elbrus Region

The Defense Museum is the highest mountain museum in the world. It is located at an altitude of 3500 meters above sea level.

The uniqueness of the exposition also lies in the fact that it is not limited only to the building, but continues in the surrounding area.

This institution has been operating since January 1, 1972. Its development and the preservation of the collections are always monitored by a researcher and two employees.

The collection contains over 270 items. It should be noted that during the Second World War, the highest mountain front was located in the Elbrus region. In these places, fierce battles were fought for which the Nazis tried to capture in order to get to the Transcaucasus.

Photo documentary materials of these events have been kept in this museum for many years. The Elbrus Defense Museum is an organization of regional subordination, in which cultural work is carried out.

Section 10. Interesting facts about grief

• In 1956, in honor of the 400th anniversary of Kabardino-Balkaria, a group of 400 climbers was able to climb Mount Elbrus at the same time.
• In 1998, the building of the Shelter of Eleven Hotel burned down in a fire. Today, the local authorities are erecting a new one on the site of the old wooden building.
• In 1991, the Shelter of Eleven's toilet was voted the worst toilet in the world by Outside Magazine. This is not surprising, given the fact that thousands of mountain tourists and climbers from all over the world have used the site for specific purposes for years.
• Elbrus is rightfully considered one of the most dangerous peaks the world. Accidents are very common while climbing the mountain. In 2004 alone, 48 extreme skiers and climbers were killed.
• In 1997, for the first time, a specially equipped and modified Land Rover was able to ascend the summit of Elbrus. The man who drove this car is the Russian traveler A. Abramov.
• Mount Elbrus is one of the "Seven Peaks", in addition to it, the list includes: Aconcagua in South America, Chomolungma in Asia, McKinley in North America, Vinson Massif in Antarctica, Kilimanjaro in Africa, Punchak and Jaya in Oceania and Australia.
• There are also 22 glaciers on Elbrus, in which three Baksan and Malka originate.
• Sometimes, from the top of Elbrus, climbers can immediately see Black and Caspian Sea... It depends on the air pressure and temperature, due to which the field of view increases significantly.
• In 2008, Mount Elbrus was recognized as one of the