Where is Mount Elbrus located? Elbrus - a mountain in the Greater Caucasus

The two peaks crowning the cone-shaped volcano are separated by a saddle, the height of which is 5300 m. The peaks of Elbrus are two independent volcanoes formed on an ancient volcanic base. The height of the young cone, located in the east, is 5621 m. This volcano has retained its classic cone-shaped shape with a clearly defined crater. The height of the maximum point of Elbrus - the western peak - reaches 5642 m. This volcano has a fairly ancient history, which is reflected in the condition of its upper part - it is partially destroyed by a vertical fault.

Elbrus is a saddle-shaped cone of a volcano that was last active in 50 AD. e. It was most active around 225 thousand, then 110-70 thousand and less than 30 thousand years ago. The mountain, formed about a million years ago, consists of alternating layers of lava, ash and tuff.
The slopes of Elbrus are mostly gentle, but starting from a height of 4000 meters, the average angle of inclination reaches 35 degrees. The northern and western slopes are strewn with steep rocky areas up to 700 meters high. The eastern and southern ones are more gentle and even.

Flowers on the southern slope of Elbrus:

At an altitude of more than 3,500 meters, the volcano is covered with stone placers, rocks and glaciers. The number of the latter is about 70 pieces, and there are total area equal to 134.5 km². The most famous glaciers of Elbrus: Terskop, Big and Small Azau. The streams erupting from them, connecting, create the three main rivers of the region - Baksanu, Kuban and Malka. The glacier-free surface is covered with moraines. A huge cap of ice and snow retains the picturesque shape of the Kazakhstan volcano all year round. It is because of this snow cap that Elbrus is called Little Antarctica.

The first written mention of the double-peaked volcano can be found in the “Book of Victories,” written by the Persian historian and poet, Sharaf ad-Din Yazdi. It tells about the Central Asian conqueror Tamerlane, who during his military campaigns climbed to the top of Elbrus to pray.

The peoples of the Caucasus and the Middle East composed a large number of songs and legends about Elbrus. One of the legends says that used to be a mountain was one-humped. At its top lived the magical bird Simurgh, who gave gifts to the mountaineers who inhabited the valleys mountain gorges, happiness and prosperity. This idyll lasted for many centuries, until the desire to seize the bird’s heavenly throne led to its possession by two greedy people. Their fierce struggle was stopped higher powers: blinding lightning cut the sky, terrible thunder erupted and Elbrus split in two, spewing streams of fire that incinerated everything in its path. After such a terrible fight, the magical bird Simurgh hid deep underground, upset by the ingratitude and greed of people.
According to research by scientists, Elbrus has not been visible for quite a long time, but despite this, the current level of activity does not give experts a reason to classify it as an extinct volcano; now it has the status of “dormant”. 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 +60ºC. The life of many famous springs begins in the depths of the volcano health resorts Kislovodsk, Pyatigorsk and the entire Caucasian region Mineralnye Vody.
The climate on Elbrus is characterized by severity, making it similar to the Arctic regions. The average temperature in the warmest month of the year does not rise above -1.4°C. There is quite a lot of precipitation here, but it is mainly represented only in the form of snow.
Around the two-headed giant are located the most beautiful peaks Caucasus: Nakra-Tau, Ushba, Donguz-Orun.
The first time a person managed to reach the eastern (lower) peak of the volcano was on July 22, 1829. This was done by the conductor of the Russian scientific expedition, a Kabardian by nationality, Kilar Khashirov. The highest peak of Elbrus (western) was conquered by a team of climbers led by Florence Grove in 1874. The first to reach both peaks was the Balkar hunter and shepherd Ahiya Sottaev. During the period of his long life, he conquered Elbrus nine times: he made the first ascent at the age of over forty, and the last in 1909, when he was 121 years old.

At the top of Elbrus:

View from the top of Elbrus:

The study of Elbrus by Russian scientists began actively in the 19th century. Academician V.K. Vishnevsky in 1913 was the first to determine the height and location of the volcano. In addition to the status of a unique natural attraction, 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 conducted here, and today it houses the highest geophysical laboratory.
Territory of the Elbrus region - major center tourism and skiing. The majority of guests are fans winter species sports, including extreme sports, which are very popular in these mountains. In addition to the usual snowboards, sleds and freeride for hunters thrills a new entertainment was organized, which was a climb to the top of Elbrus by helicopter and subsequent descent from the mountain on skis. For more conservative alpine skiers, there are cable cars, the average throughput of which is 2400 people per hour.

The highest mountain in Europe, the highest volcanic peak in Eurasia and simply one of the “7 Wonders of Russia” - meet Elbrus.

The first scientific studies of this peak began in the 19th century, although the exact height and location were determined only in 1913 after calculations by Academician Vishnevsky. The first expedition, the goal of which was to reach the top of this volcano, was organized in 1829. It included several eminent scientists, for example, the founder of the St. Petersburg geophysical laboratory Adolf Kupfer, physicist Emilius Lenz, and the famous zoologist Eduard Minetrier.

The expedition was accompanied by a thousand-strong detachment of Cossacks led by General George Emmanuel. It was he who became the author of the memorial inscription carved on a rock at an altitude of 2400m. The general himself chose to remain at this height and watched the ascent from the camp.

Continuing the ascent, the expedition spent the night at an altitude of 3000. Only part of the group, continuing the ascent, reached the mark of 4800 m, where a memorial sign and the number 1829 were carved. This mark was subsequently discovered during the Soviet expedition of 1949. Only five people rose above it, and three reached the saddle - academician Lenz, Cossack Lysenkov and Kabardian Killar. Look what Mount Elbrus looks like in the photo - two peaks with an impressive saddle between them. This is where the most persistent members of the expedition arrived.

Further ascent was impossible due to the heavily softened snow. However, the Kabardian, being adapted to mountain conditions, continued to climb and was able to reach the top. It was he who became the first person to climb Elbrus. More precisely, to one of the almost equal (the difference is only 21 m) peaks.

The first person to conquer both peaks was the Balkarian guide Ahiya Sottaev. He made his first ascent when he was over forty. After that, he climbed Elbrus eight more times, and the last time he did this at the age of one hundred and twenty-one! Here it is, the famous Caucasian health and longevity. Among other things, Sottaev twice served as a guide for English expeditions to Elbrus.

Where is Elbrus

The Caucasus is the center of a large number of peaks, whose heights reach far beyond 3000 meters above sea level. But when they remember Caucasus Mountains, Elbrus comes to mind first. And how interesting object for exploration, both as the highest point in Europe and as a place of pilgrimage for climbers from all over the world. Where Elbrus is located, that is, between Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia, many peoples live, and each of them has created many beautiful legends about it. There is also no consensus on the answer to the question of where his current name came from. There are several theories about the origin of the name Elbrus:

From the Iranian word Aitbares - high mountain.
From the Georgian name of Mount Yalbuz, which in turn comes from the Turkic words “storm” and “ice”.
Another theory suggests that the name was formed from three words of the Karachay-Balkar language: El - settlement; Drill - to tighten; Us – character. That is, the name can be translated as having the disposition to send a snowstorm. Apparently, we are talking here not so much about snowstorms, but about volcanic eruptions. There are references to eruptions in folk legends.

Elbrus is a giant dormant volcano

At 5642 meters, Mount Elbrus is the fifth highest volcano in the world. It, like most similar volcanoes, consists of two parts: the base and the cone, which was formed during eruptions. The height of the base in the case of Elbrus is 3700 meters. Thus, during the eruptions, the mountain grew by almost 2000 meters. The characteristic outlines of the double-headed peak, which changes its color depending on the lighting, are visible from almost any corner of the Stavropol Territory. Glaciers, of which there are 23, feed such large rivers as the Kuban and Terek.

In its structure, Elbrus is a typical stratovolcano. It has a clearly defined conical shape. The cone itself is composed of numerous layers of lava, ash and volcanic tuff, in which the entire history of eruptions is recorded. The base of Elbrus began to form in the Neogene, when the Caucasian ridge was actively forming. According to scientists, the volcanic eruptions resembled the eruptions of Vesuvius, but were much stronger.

Its strength can be judged by the fact that its ashes are today found almost 100 kilometers from the volcano itself. It is noteworthy that periods of violent activity and intensive growth of the cone were followed by periods of “hibernation”, during which the glaciers wore down the cone almost completely. According to volcanologists, there have been at least ten such cycles throughout the history of the volcano. The oldest crater, or rather its remains, can be observed in the form of the rocky formation of Khotyu-Tau-Azau on the southwestern slope.

The vigorous activity of Elbrus ended 2500 years ago, although geographers of the 16th century. the volcano was considered active and was depicted on maps as a fire-breathing mountain. The last time the volcano showed its tough temper was in the first decades of our era. Interestingly, the active eruptions of Elbrus and Kazbek became the main reason for the exodus of Neanderthals from the Caucasus region 40-45 thousand years ago. Currently, volcanologists are in no hurry to classify the volcano as extinct. It is rather a dying volcano and the probability of activation (albeit very small) still remains. The mountain is also the center of minor earthquakes in the region.

Today, the main wealth of these places is their numerous springs. The Narzan Valley near the source of the Malki River is the product of a dying volcano. This place should soon become a resort, which will not be inferior to Kislovodsk either in the number of sources or in the quality of mineral waters.

The weather on the slopes is more than harsh, and at times comparable to the Arctic. The average temperature in July is only -1.4 C, and even daytime temperatures rarely rise above +8 C. There is a lot of precipitation here, many times more than at the foot of the ridge, but it can only be seen in the form of snow. The weather station at 4250 meters, having worked for three years, has not recorded a single rain.
Having great importance as the highest point in Europe, Elbrus attracted the attention of German troops during World War II.

Hitler wanted to rename the mountain after himself. The famous Edelweiss division, trained in mountain warfare, took part in local hostilities. In August 1942, soldiers of the Third Reich first captured two way stations, and on August 21 they raised the Nazi German flag over the western peak. The division's soldiers didn't last long - winter and the Red Army soldiers did their job. Already in February 1943, the red flags of the Land of the Soviets were already flying over the snow-white peak of the mountain.

Historically, all infrastructure was located on the south side of the mountain. It was here that the cable car was built, which takes tourists to a height of 3750 meters. The ascent to Elbrus consists of several intermediate points:

Cable car;
Shelter “Bochki” at an altitude of 3750 m (this is where the ascent begins);
Hotel "Shelter of Eleven" (4200m);
Pastukhov Rocks (4700m)
Station EG5300, which was built recently. It is located in the saddle between two peaks at an altitude of 5300 meters.

It is station EG5300 that is the last point of the route on the way to one of the peaks. After this there is about 500 meters of ascent left.

The northern slopes are more than modestly equipped. There are only a few huts here at an altitude of 3,800 meters, which are more often used by rescuers than climbers. The northern route is usually used when climbing the eastern peak. In this case, the Lenz rocks, which stretch at altitudes from 4600 to 5200 meters, serve as a reliable reference point.

Elbrus phenomenon

And finally a few interesting facts about the highest point in Russia, and at the same time in all of Europe:

The Balkars themselves even today prefer to call the mountain “Mingi-tau”, which in their native language means "Mountain of Thousands", which emphasizes its exceptional size and height.
The distance between the peaks in a straight line is 1500 meters. But you will have to cover about 3 km on foot.
The next highest mountain in Europe, Mont Blanc, is almost eight hundred meters lower than the Caucasian giant. In other words, even having climbed to the saddle between the peaks, you will already be “above everyone else” in Europe.
Despite the relatively well-developed and well-trodden routes, climbing Elbrus is unlikely to be an easy walk. According to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, every year from 15 to 20 people die on the slopes. Getting up in the winter months is considered suicide. The nominal temperature here easily drops to -30C, and the perceived temperature, thanks to strong winds, is even lower.
Elbrus is not only mentioned in the works of the ancient Greek historian Herodotus, but also participates in Greek myths. It was here that Zeus decided to chain Prometheus, for his gift to people - fire.

By the way, the habitat of the Greek gods, Mount Olympus, is simply a dwarf in comparison with Elbrus - only 2917 meters.

Elbrus – highest peak Russia. It is located in the North Caucasus, where the border between Kabardino-Balkaria and Karachay-Cherkessia passes. Nearest major cities– Mineralnye Vody, Nalchik, Pyatigorsk. Elbrus is considered a standard of natural beauty and a symbol of a healthy lifestyle. Recently, the legendary peak became a laureate of the “7 Wonders of Russia” competition.

Anatomy of Elbrus

From the outside, Elbrus resembles a Bactrian camel, since it has two peaks at once. One is only two dozen meters higher than the other. The western one reaches a height of 5642 m. The eastern one is slightly lower - 5621 m. From a distance it seems that they are located very close to each other. In fact, there is almost a kilometer and a half between them. The peaks are separated by the so-called Elbrus saddle. The average steepness of the rocks is 350.

There is an honorary world ranking called the “Seven Summits”. It includes the highest mountains from six parts of the world. Elbrus is the leader in Europe. Mont Blanc takes second place. He lags behind his Caucasian competitor by as much as 832 m! The nuance is that there are several methods for determining the border between Europe and Asia. Elbrus is considered “European” if it is carried out along the Greater Caucasus Range. Due to uncertainty, both peaks – Elbrus and Mont Blanc – were included in the rating.

Photo: Once upon a time fiery lava flowed along the slopes of Elbrus

From a geological point of view, Elbrus is a typical stratovolcano, which is characterized by a conical shape. Its thickness consists of layers of solidified lava and volcanic ash. Three million years ago, real hell reigned in these places. In total, Elbrus erupted for almost 250 thousand years! Looking at the peaceful peak today, it’s hard to believe. The last burst of volcanic activity occurred about 80 thousand years ago. By human standards this is a huge period, but by geological standards it is a moment. Some scientists believe that the volcano is still awaiting a surge in activity.

Nature has no bad weather

The Elbrus region is characterized by sudden changes in weather. On average, cycles last about a week. Good weather gives way to bad weather, then idyll reigns again. In the first half of summer, rain is a frequent visitor. At an altitude of up to 2000 m, the maximum temperature can reach +35. The average temperature is much lower. It decreases further with height. However, this is enough to slightly melt the glaciers. They are the ones who give rise to such large rivers like Kuban, Malka and Baksan.

Autumn in the mountains begins in the second half of August, and winter at an altitude of more than 2000 m can come as early as October. The average January temperature is -12, but drops sharply with altitude. Because of this, Elbrus is called “Little Antarctica”. For every 200 m of ascent, the temperature decreases by one degree. In winter there is severe frost at the top. The temperature can drop to -40, and the wind speed, on the contrary, can increase to 40 m/sec! Such harsh conditions prevail at altitudes above 4000 m.

Most snow falls on the southern slopes. The northern side is less snowy. The average thickness of snow cover is 0.8 meters. The beginning of spring in the mountains occurs in the first half of May. During this period, at an altitude of up to 3000 m, the snow actively melts and comes down in the form of wet avalanches. There is danger all year round bright sun. To save yourself from an overdose of ultraviolet radiation, you need to have a protective cream and dark glasses.

Photo: Most snow falls on the southern slopes

Climatic conditions determine the specifics of the fauna and flora of the Elbrus region. The mountains are home to Caucasian aurochs, chamois, and roe deer. There are wild boars at the foot. If you're lucky, you might see yaks on the slopes. They tried to breed them artificially, but the experiment was unsuccessful. In the forests there are moose, jackals, wolves, and foxes. The belt of alpine meadows is favored by the Caucasian grouse, mountain turkey, stone partridge, as well as feathered predators - black vulture, eaglet, golden eagle and others. You should be wary of vipers, although the mountaineers claim that meeting one is lucky!

Why Elbrus?

Names are given by people, so Elbrus remained nameless for a long time after its birthday. With the advent of people, the mountain received several names at once. This is due to the fact that they were invented by representatives of different tribes who did not have writing and did not communicate with each other. The Kabardino-Balkarians called it “Mingi tau” - “Eternal Mountain”. In Kumyk, her name sounded like “Askhar-tau” - “Snowy Mountain of Ases”. The Adyghe people called it “Kuskhemakha” - “Mountain that brings happiness.”

By official version the word "Elbrus" comes from the Persian "al-borji", which means "heaving". At least on the territory of modern Iran there is a mountain called Elburz. In the Ossetian language there is the word “albors” - high mountain. Georgians call “snow mane” “yalbuz”. Apparently, over time the names merged and transformed. This is how the “arithmetic mean” Elbrus appeared.

Photo: Elbrus region - the territory of traditions and legends

As with any cult place, many legends are associated with Elbrus. Some of them explain the presence of two peaks. It is believed, for example, that they owe their appearance to Noah, who, during the Flood, touched the top with his ark and split it in two. To repair the damaged ship, he tried to land on the mountain, but was unable to do so. Then Noah cursed her, wishing her eternal winter. Since then, the two peaks of Elbrus have always been covered with ice and snow.

Brief history of ascents

Just as a prospector dreams of finding the largest nugget, climbers have always dreamed of conquering Elbrus. And they not only dreamed, but also conquered. Scientists became the pioneers. This happened in July 1829. Then the mountain peak was stormed by such famous personalities as the creator of the St. Petersburg geophysical observatory, Adolf Kupfer, and physicist Emilius Lenz. Even the botanist Karl Meyer and the artist Joseph Bernardazzi became climbers for a while!

The expedition was led by General George Emmanuel. Then he commanded the Caucasian fortified area. The event was purely scientific in nature. The ascent was supported by 650 soldiers and 350 Cossacks. Scientists, guides and 20 Cossacks took part directly in the assault on Elbrus. Only four reached the Eastern peak. And the Western Peak was first climbed only in 1874.

Photo: General George Emmanuel

Forty years later, Elbrus submitted to the English climbers. Then came the era of records. The German Merzbacher and the Austrian Purtscheller climbed to the top in just eight hours! In 1925, the first woman reached the summit. Since the middle of the 20th century, climbers have become widespread. And now the folk trail does not overgrow here. Elbrus beckons and attracts like a huge magnet.

There have been legendary cases in the history of conquests. So in 1974, three UAZ-469 SUVs rose to a height of 4200 meters! This was done without the help of winches. Since the air at such an altitude is very thin, the engines did not work at full capacity. Cars often got stuck in the snow. They had to be dug out with shovels. However, people and cars survived. A unique “ascent” has taken place!

Elbrus for skiers

If there are slopes and snow, then there is ski resorts. The Elbrus region is no exception in this regard. Ski resorts“Azau” and “Cheget” are located in the Elbrus region of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, 186 km from Mineralnye Vody. The Azau ski area is suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. "Cheget" is more suitable for advanced "users".

The skiing season in the Elbrus region lasts from October to May. High season falls between February and April. In spring, people not only ski on the slopes, but also sunbathe. Skating on the glaciers is possible all year round.

Photo: The ski season lasts from October to May

On the slopes of “Azau” there are 3 routes: “Polyana Azau - Krugozor” (length - 5100 m, difficult), “Krugozor - Mir” (5110 m, medium), “Mir - Gara-Bashi” (2000 m, easy). The stations are located at altitudes from 2350 to 3847 m. It is possible to go higher, but for this you will have to use a snowcat. The elevation difference on the slopes is from 347 to 650 m. The total length of the slopes is 12.2 km, and the total elevation difference is 1497 m. The width of the slopes is from 60 to 80 m. The artificial snowmaking system allows skiing up to 180 days a year.

The capacity of the lifts to the Mir station is 2400 people/hour, to Gara-Bashi – 1400 people/hour. From the Krugozor station you can clearly see the Baksan Valley. Above you will find a panorama of the Bolshoi Caucasian ridge. And from the maximum point - glaciers. The Gara-Bashi station “floats” above the clouds and is considered the highest in Europe. Lift operating hours are from 9:00 to 17:00. Get up until 16:00.

There are eight types of ski passes on sale - from a one-time lift to a six-day pass. Children under 6 years old have free entry to the ski lifts. On weekends, the cost of a ski pass increases by an average of 20%. In the period from 22.05 to 01.12, summer tariffs apply, providing only one-time descent and ascent. At this time, not skiers, but climbers climb the mountains.

“Cheget” has more difficult conditions for skiing. Local trails are more difficult than many European ones. In 1963, skiers went up for the first time on a chairlift. Now there are 15 tracks on Cheget. They are laid at altitudes from 2100 to 3050 m. total length reaches 20 km. There are luxurious conditions for snowboarders and freeriders. The easiest route is at the top of the slope.

There are three lines of the cable car at Cheget. Single- and double-chair lifts operate from “Chegetskaya Polyana” to the “Cheget-2” station (2100-2750 m). You can get to the Cheget-3 station (2750-3000 m) by single-chair or drag lift. Up to the highest point (3070 m), only the rope tow operates. The resort offers two ski pass options - one-time and one-day. There are several hotels located on “Chegenskaya Polyana”, in close proximity to the ski lifts.

The resorts have shops that sell everything you need for skiing. alpine skiing and snowboarding. Equipment rental is available. Beginners can hire an instructor. Excursions are organized for tourists. The main attractions are the Narzan Valley, Chegem waterfalls, the Bezengi glacier, Blue Lake, "Maiden's Braids" waterfall, national park"Elbrus region".

Currently, in the Elbrus region there are more than 70 accommodation sites, including mountain camps, guest houses, boarding houses and hotels. Accommodation costs may vary greatly depending on the services provided. In addition to hotels, you can stay in the private sector in the villages of Terskol, Baidaevo, Tegenekli, Elbrus, Neutrino. The price of housing falls in proportion to the distance from the ski lifts.

Photo: There are more than 70 accommodation places in the Elbrus region

Climbing routes

For beginners, climbing Elbrus along the southern slope is optimal. The route starts at Polyana Azau. The lift takes tourists to the Gara-Bashi station, located at an altitude of 3847 m, in one hour. Anyone can climb to the Oblique Shelf at an altitude of 5100 m by snowcat. For those who want to test themselves, it is better to overcome this stage on their own, without the use of technical means.

The southern route passes by Shelter 11 (4130 m) and Pastukhov Rocks (4700 m), which are named after the famous Russian climber Andrei Pastukhov. Next you will have to overcome the Col at an altitude of 5300 m. This part of the route is quite simple. But at the final stage you will have to work hard. To conquer Elbrus, you need to overcome a fairly steep climb. But the view from the Western peak is stunning!

The northern slope of the mountain is considered more difficult. The route is designed for trained climbers. Climbing to the top along the classic path of pioneers is not an easy task. This route is most often used to conquer the Eastern Peak. The glacier begins at an altitude of 3800 m, so you will need crampons here. At the Lenz Rocks at an altitude of 4800 m you will have to stop for a rest to acclimatize. Having gained strength and gotten used to the thin air, you can storm the summit.

On the eastern side of Elbrus there is a route along the Achkeryakol lava flow. This is a rather long and difficult climbing option. The route goes through Irik-Chat (3667 m) - one of the most beautiful passes in the Elbrus region. From here you have an excellent view of the lava flow and the Jikauchenquez ice plateau. The object of conquest is the Western Peak.

The name “Wild West” best suits the western slope of Elbrus. This is an option for extreme sports enthusiasts. Civilization has bypassed these places - there are no snowcats or ski lifts here. It is chosen by tourists in good physical shape, since all equipment from start to finish will have to be carried in backpacks. The victory is celebrated on the Western Peak.

For those who climb, there are shelters in the mountains. This is the name for places where you can hide from bad weather, relax, and spend the night. The first shelter on Elbrus appeared in 1909 at an altitude of 3200 m. It could accommodate only five people. In 1932, the “Shelter of the Eleven” appeared at an altitude of 4200 meters. It could already accommodate 40 people. Then the Saddle and Shelter of Nine shelters opened. They are still in effect today.

Of the new shelters, “Bochki” should be noted. A dozen six-bed cylindrical houses are located near the Gara-Bashi station at an altitude of 3847 m. Climbers have this very popular place start before the assault on Elbrus. Nearby are the Hassan shelter for 12 people and the Kotelnaya shelter, which accommodates up to 50 people. On the southern side there are shelters Shuvalova, “Maria” and “Esen”.

“LeapRus” is considered the highest mountain comfortable shelter. It is located on the southern slope at an altitude of 3900 m and can accommodate 48 people. It has all the delights of civilization - heating, hot water and lighting. Electricity for tourists is provided by solar panels.

Photo: High-level mountain hotel

Our tourist club offers the following programs for climbing Elbrus:

Climbing with tents from the north side to the eastern peak

How to get there

By plane you can get to Mineralnye Vody or Nalchik. From there, take a bus or taxi to Terskol, a village in Kabardino-Balkaria. It is considered resort center. Organized tourists order transfers through travel agencies. The trip from Nalchik will take about 3 hours, from Mineralnye Vody - 4 hours.

There are railway stations in Nalchik, Pyatigorsk, Mineralnye Vody and Prokhladny. There is a daily train between Moscow and Nalchik. By train Moscow - Kislovodsk you will get to Mineralnye Vody or Pyatigorsk, and by train Moscow - Vladikavkaz - to Prokhladnaya station.

To major settlements Intercity buses run in the Elbrus region. In their cars, tourists travel to Elbrus through Krasnodar or Rostov-on-Don.

Once upon a time Elbrus was active volcano, and is now listed in the group of the largest extinct volcanoes on the planet. The height of Elbrus is 5642 meters

The scientific study of Elbrus by Russian researchers began in the 19th century. In 1913, astronomer Academician V.K. Vishnevsky was the first to accurately determine the location and height of Elbrus. In 1829, Elbrus was visited by the first Russian scientific expedition. It included the famous Russian academician Lenz, the botanist Meyer, the architect of Pyatigorsk Bernardazzi and others. The expedition was accompanied by the head of the Caucasian line, General Emmanuel, with a detachment of 1000 Cossacks. The detachment stopped at the northern foot of Elbrus at an altitude of 2400 meters. The general did not go further, preferring to observe the actions of the scientists through a telescope. The inscription was carved on the stones at the site of the camp: “1829, from July 8 to July 11, camp under the command of General Cavalier Emmanuel.”

Having begun the ascent, the expedition, after spending the night at an altitude of 3000 meters, continued its ascent. Part of the expedition reached only a height of 4800 meters. Here the St. George's cross and the number 1829 were carved on the stones. This inscription was discovered in 1949 by a group of Soviet climbers from the Nauka society. Only Lenz, two Cossacks and two Kabardian guides continued their journey. Lentz and the Cossack Lysenkov managed to reach the saddle; it was impossible to go further, since the snow had softened greatly. Only one Kabardian, Killar, went higher. He managed to reach the top because his body was better adapted to mountain conditions and he went out earlier on hard snow. Emmanuel saw Killar through his telescope near the eastern peak. The scientists greeted the guide who returned in the evening as the first climber to Elbrus. To commemorate the work of the expedition and the achievement of the summit, two cast-iron plaques were cast with an inscription detailing this event, which were later installed in Pyatigorsk near the Grotto of Diana and are currently stored in the museum. The photo shows the entrance to Diana's grotto

According to one version, the name Elbrus comes from the Iranian Aitibares - “high Mountain”, more likely - the Iranian “sparkling, brilliant” (like Elborz in Iran). The Georgian name Yalbuz is from the Turkic yal - “storm” and buz - “ice”. The Armenian Alberis is probably a phonetic version of the Georgian name, but the possibility of a connection with the pan-Indo-European basis to which the toponym “Alps” goes back is not excluded. According to another version, Elbrus is translated from the Karachay-Balkarian language as follows: El is a village, people, state; Bur is a twist, a gate, and is the same root as the word Buran; Us means character, behavior, disposition. Having the disposition to create a snowstorm or a volcano that twisted, turned over villages and people. Now Elbrus is an extinct volcano, but local residents Karachay-Balkarians have preserved in the people's memory the times when Elbrus was still an active volcano.

Elbrus height– 5642 meters. Few volcanic mountains globe exceed Elbrus in height. Only the extinct volcano Aconcagua (6960 m) and the active fire-breathing Mount Llullaillaco (6723 m), located in South America, exceed Elbrus by a little more than one kilometer. The greatest volcano in Africa, Kilimanjaro, is almost equal to Elbrus, surpassing it only by 253 meters, the same can be said about largest volcano North America Orizaba (5700 m), superior to Elbrus by 58 meters. Among the mountains of Asia, Elbrus is the highest volcanic peak, next to it, Mount Damavand is inferior to Elbrus in height by 38 meters

Elbrus, like many other volcanoes, is divided into two parts: a pedestal of rocks, and a mound cone formed as a result of eruptions. The pedestal of Elbrus reaches approximately 3700 meters. This means that the “growth” of Elbrus due to its eruptions is approximately 2000 meters.
Klyuchevskaya Sopka has the largest cone in height among all volcanoes. The bulk cone of this volcano reaches 4572 meters and exceeds the cone of Elbrus by almost three kilometers

The outlines of the double-headed, sometimes blue, sometimes pink - depending on the lighting - cone of Elbrus are well known to Stavropol residents. Elbrus is visible from all, even the most northern points of the region, where the horizon is not blocked by other, closer hills. The interest in Elbrus among Stavropol residents is also explained by the fact that the waters of its glaciers feed the most big rivers our region - the beautiful Kuban and the stormy Terek

Elbrus is a classic volcanic mountain. In its vast cone, formed during numerous eruptions, the history of the volcano is written; it is successfully read by Soviet geologists on layers of lava, ash and volcanic tuff

Elbrus arose at the end of the Neogene during the rise of the Caucasus Range. The eruptions of Elbrus were probably similar to the eruptions of modern Vesuvius, but were more violent. From the craters of the volcano at the beginning of the eruption, powerful clouds of vapors and gases, saturated with black ash, rose many kilometers upward, covering the entire sky, turning day into night. The earth shook from powerful underground explosions. The air was torn by incessant lightning and streaks of fire from thousands of volcanic bombs flying out of the crater. Streams of ash mud rushed along the slopes of the mountain, sweeping away vegetation and stones in their path. Each eruption ended with the release of hot lava, which quickly solidified on the surface. Layers of ash, lava, and stones, layered on top of each other, expanded the slopes of the volcano and increased its height. The volcano had colossal power; its ashes are found in the area of Nalchik, on the slopes of Mount Mashuk, located 90 kilometers from Elbrus. Elbrus probably belongs to the ash deposits discovered in the north of our region near the city of Novoaleksandrovsk. But eras of eruptions were followed by periods of calm, during which rivers and glaciers energetically destroyed the previously filled volcanic cone almost to the ground. The volcanic rocks were overlain by thick moraines and river deposits. From the birth of Elbrus to the present, periods of erosion and revival of the cone have been repeated up to ten times

The activity of Elbrus continued during the Ice Age of the Quaternary period, when people already lived in the Caucasus, and ceased about 2500 years ago. When ice advanced, its slopes were repeatedly covered with a powerful ice shell; during subsequent eruptions, they were washed away by stormy streams of water. The Elbrus eruption site has been moved several times. Both domes currently crowning Elbrus are the youngest. In the southwestern part of the mountain, the remains of the most ancient crater are preserved in the form of the Khotyu-Tau-Azau rocks. This is where glaciers originate, feeding the Baksan River and tributaries of the Kuban. The eastern and western peaks of Elbrus seem to be embedded in the upper part of the ancient crater. The work of Elbrus had to be completed by the youngest crater - eastern peak mountains. It is possible that both cones sometimes worked simultaneously

Geographers of the 16th century considered Elbrus an active volcano. In books and on maps it was depicted as a fire-breathing mountain, and is described as such in many folk legends. Rumors sometimes spread among the inhabitants of the mountains and foothills that Elbrus had begun to operate again or that Elbrus was expected to be revived in the near future. These stories are not justified in any way. Elbrus, perhaps, can be called not an extinct, but a fading volcano. It is sometimes the center of small earthquakes that spread throughout the Ciscaucasia. In the depths of the batholith, which previously fed Elbrus, magma cools, it supplies mineral springs carbon dioxide, turning them into narzans, of which there are a lot at the foot of Elbrus. In some places on the slopes of Elbrus, sulfur dioxide gases emerge from cracks, which gives rise to other scientists to claim that:

“The results of many years of research... clearly indicate the activity of volcanic processes proper on Elbrus in the Holocene, including historical time. Elbrus modern volcano, which is in a stage of relative dormancy. The absence of eruptions during the last millennium cannot be a sign of the end volcanic activity. The roof of the magma chamber is apparently located at a depth of 6 - 7 kilometers from the surface. Based on geological data, we come to the conclusion that Elbrus volcano is on an ascending branch of development."

The two-headed giant Elbrus stores inexhaustible riches in its depths. At its foot come out healing springs: the famous “Narzan Valley” near the source of the Malki River is the brainchild of Elbrus. This is a future resort, not inferior to Kislovodsk in terms of the number of springs and the quality of the Narzans. Internal heat and various mineral resources of Elbrus are waiting to be used.

Elbrus has a harsh climate, making it similar to the Arctic region. The average temperature of the warmest month is -1.4°. There is a lot of precipitation on Elbrus, two to three times more than on the Stavropol plains, but it only falls in the form of snow. At the Elbrus meteorological station at an altitude of 4250 meters, during three years of observations no rain was ever recorded. Elbrus is sometimes compared to a piece of ice 6 kilometers in size, thrown far south from the Arctic regions. Naturally, warm air masses coming from Atlantic Ocean meeting this obstacle, rising and cooling, they are forced to give up part of their moisture to the slopes on the approaches to this mountain. As a result, Elbrus changes the weather in vast areas of neighboring areas, which is noted by the sign of local residents: “When Elbrus puts on a cloudy cap on a clear day, there will be bad weather.” The coldest month on Elbrus is February. The average air temperature in February is 15° lower than in Stavropol. In the warmest month, July, average temperature air is approximately equal to December temperatures in the Stavropol region, and the highest daytime temperature this month reaches only eight degrees Celsius. August is the most best month for climbing Elbrus, at this time the snow melts, all the cracks in the ice open, even where they are usually not visible.

The glory of Elbrus as the highest and most beautiful mountain of the Caucasus has been going on since time immemorial. Even before our era, Herodotus wrote about him. The peoples of the Caucasus and the Middle East have songs and legends about Elbrus. A.S. Pushkin, M.Yu. Lermontov, and many Caucasian poets dedicated inspired lines to him.

Conquered Giant
...In the depths of your gorges
The ax will rattle.
And an iron shovel
Into the stone chest,
Mining copper and gold
It will hit you in a terrible way.
The caravans are already passing by
Through those rocks
Where only fogs rushed
Yes, the kings are eagles.

M.Yu. Lermontov.

Due to its symbolic meaning as highest point In Europe, Elbrus became the scene of a fierce confrontation during the Great Patriotic War, in which units of the German mountain rifle division “Edelweiss” also participated. During the Battle of the Caucasus on August 21, 1942, after occupying the Krugozor and Shelter of the Eleven mountain bases, Hitler’s Alpine riflemen managed to install Nazi banners on the western peak of Elbrus. By the middle of the winter of 1942-1943, fascist troops were driven out from the slopes of Elbrus, and on February 13 and 17, 1943, Soviet climbers climbed the western and eastern peaks of Elbrus, respectively, where red flags were hoisted.

The entire infrastructure is mainly concentrated on the southern slopes of Elbrus, where there is a pendulum and chairlift leading to an altitude of 3750 meters to the Barrels shelter, which consists of twelve six-seater insulated residential trailers and a kitchen. Currently, this is the main starting point for those climbing Elbrus. Below is a map of the cable car

At an altitude of 4200 m the most high mountain hotel"Shelter of Eleven", which burned down at the end of the 20th century, on the basis of which the boiler room in given time A new building was rebuilt, also actively used by climbers. At an altitude of 4700 m the Pastukhov rocks are located. Above them there is an ice field (in winter) and an oblique shelf. Further, the route to the Western summit passes through the saddle. From the saddle the peaks rise to a height of about 500 m.

More detailed map-scheme of Elbrus and the Elbrus region (click on the map to enlarge)

This photo shows Elbrus from a bird's eye view

Since 2007, work has been underway to build a rescue shelter (“Station EG 5300”) on the saddle of the mountain (height 5300 m). The shelter will be a geodesic dome hemisphere with a diameter of 6.7 m, installed on a gabion foundation. In 2008, a reconnaissance of the area was carried out, a base camp was prepared, and the design of the shelter began. In 2009, the dome structures were made, construction work began: gabions were erected by the expedition members, and the dome elements were transported to the construction site (including using a helicopter). Completion of construction is planned for 2010

On the northern side, the infrastructure is poorly developed and is represented by several huts on one of the moraines (at an altitude of about 3800 m), which are used by tourists and employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. As a rule, this point is used for ascents to the Eastern peak, the path to which passes through the Lenz rocks (from 4600 to 5200 m), which serve as a good reference point for all climbers

Snow giant's cap
And in their circle there is a two-headed colossus.
Shining in an icy crown,
Elbrus is huge, majestic
White in the blue sky.

A.S. Pushkin.

In 2008, Elbrus was recognized as one of the seven wonders of Russia, according to voting results

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 grandeur and power of the peak. Few people 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.

Geographical characteristics

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

The summit has two highest peaks, the height of the eastern peak is 5621 meters, and the height of the western peak 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 shrunk by 33%. Elbrus glaciers feed 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 considered one of the highest mountain peak Europe and are equated to the mountains of the “Seven Summits”. The double-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 clearly defined crater.

Finding a mountain on a map is not 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 a mountain is determined by the condition of its upper part. Its top has a vertical fault. Last eruption highest peak Russia happened around the 50s AD. e.

The mystery of the name of the mountain

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

Today it is very difficult to understand which name appeared first. 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 peak in the Karachay-Balkar language is called “Mingi-tau”, which translated into Russian means “mountain of thousands”. But there is also another name for the Balkars - “Minge-tau”, which translates as “mountain saddled”. Modern representatives of this community call Elbrus - “the mountain around which the wind swirls” (“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

The climate of the mountain region is formed under the influence of seasonal air masses. Climatic conditions are typical for mountainous terrain. The Elbrus region is characterized by a pattern 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 from the end of August. Winter comes already in October, at an altitude of more than 3 thousand meters. At this point the average temperature is -12 degrees. The absolute minimum was recorded at minus 27 degrees. Spring comes only at the beginning of May. During this period, snow melts actively at around 3 thousand meters. Often it comes down in the form of wet avalanches.

The higher the height, the thicker the cover. Thus, 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 increases.

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 was formed since ancient times as a result of eruptions. Having studied the first layer, scientists found that the first eruption of the peak occurred around 45 thousand years ago. e. The subsequent one is the second layer, formed after the eruption of the Mount Kazbek volcano. It was formed about 40 thousand years ago.

Today it has been precisely proven 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 settled places in search of more favorable living conditions. It has been established that the last time the volcano erupted was 2 thousand years ago BC. e.

The history of climbing Elbrus

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

In 1868, a re-climbing of the mountain was carried out by an English group of scientists. eastern part mountains. In the same year, the first conquest of Mount Kazbek was accomplished. The western peak of Elbrus was conquered in 1874 by climbers from England; the expedition guide was A. Sottaev.

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

In 1891, the highest recorded short time ascents throughout history - only 8 hours. The climb started from the bottom southern slopes and ended at the eastern peak.

Swiss climbers, for the first time in history, in 1910 accomplished the so-called Elbrus Cross. They climbed two peaks simultaneously, 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 Moscow skier V. Gippenreiter.

From the first part of the twentieth century, climbing Elbrus began to become widespread. So, in 1928, 32 groups of climbers carried out the ascent; in 1935, about 2,016 people visited Elbrus, and in 1960, 1,395 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.

The 2016 climb to Elbrus is listed in the Guinness Book of Records. Russian climbers A. Kuimov and S. Baranov climbed with the help of an ATV to a height of 5642 meters.

Nowadays, climbing Elbrus is not difficult. For tourists and travelers the path is made easier by shelters - parking lots and cable cars.

The beauty and grandeur of Elbrus make the mountain the most visited in modern world. The viewing radius under favorable conditions is large. So, sometimes from the tops of the mountain you can see the Caspian and Black Sea simultaneously. No wonder in 2008, the peak was recognized as one of the wonders of the world in Russia.

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