The call of the mountains is tough to avoid. The tallest mountains keep motivating adventure-seekers to get their climbing gear in place ahead of the hike. Mount Elbrus is one such incredible mountain peak, standing at 18,510 feet, that draws thousands of tourists every year, seeking to climb its snow-white heights. Mount Elbrus is Europe’s highest mountain top, and one of the famed 7 Summits (which means the highest mountain on each of the seven continents).
Interestingly, the locals name Mount Elbrus ‘Mingi-Tau’ (resembling a thousand mountains) because Elbrus is so big. Whether you are a novice at climbing Mount Elbrus or want to satisfy your adventure skills for the nth time, here are the top things to know before climbing the mountain jewel Mount Elbrus.
Best Time To Climb
May to mid-September is Mount Elbrus’s best climbing season. July to August is ideal for starting the Mount Elbrus expedition because of stable weather, warmer temperatures, and sunnier days. June is the best time to ski Mt. Elbrus. Although thigh-deep snow can make the climb more challenging, you can snowboard your way back with confidence.
If you wish to avoid a busy trip, consider climbing Mt. Elbrus, either in the middle to end of April or October beginning. While doing so, you will have to be prepared for colder and less predictable weather. Factor windchill in the icy weather.
The Routes To Take
There are two routes to reach Mount Elbrus: the northern and southern hemispheres. The latter is significantly more accessible than the north. The hiking success rate from the south is about 80-90 per cent, in contrast to the northern route, where the success rate is around 50 per cent. Climbing Elbrus from the south will take you 5-6 days and 6-7 days from the north.
Whether north or south, both the routes require basic technical skills like crampons, rope travel, glacier crossings, and ice axes’ use on steep snow slopes. Take the services of a reputed company to learn and master mountain hiking skills.
Know Your Altitude Sickness Level
When climbing Mount Elbrus, there are chances of 50 per cent less oxygen than at sea level. Mild symptoms of altitude sickness can show up, such as appetite loss, headaches, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, and an increased heart rate at 7,500 feet and above.
Mountain climbers should ideally take acclimatization treks before starting the summit climb. Drink plenty of fluids to maintain your body’s hydration levels. Keep eating to sustain your calorie input. Take frequent breaks in your Elbrus climb. Go slowly to help you acclimatize better. Consider taking Diamox medication as a preventive measure to fight high altitude illness.
Hire A Guide
Apart from the technical challenge of climbing Mount Elbrus, you need to plan the logistics if you are not using a tour company. Although a guide is not essential for a summit hike, it is money well spent. A tour company will help you organize your mountain trip – from transportation back and forth to the summit, lodging, meals, climbing gear rental, etc.
Apart from the logistic support, your guide’s specialized training and wealth of experience will also help you successfully reach the summit top. The cost of the Elbrus climb depends on the level of your mountain climb. You can explore the climb on an independent and budgeted scale. Consider Elbrus climbing with a local guide or hire a western operator for professional help on formalities such as visas and international flights. Interestingly, the locals name Mount Elbrus ‘Mingi-Tau’ (resembling a thousand mountains) because Elbrus is so big. Whether you are a novice at climbing Mount Elbrus or want to satisfy your adventure skills for the nth time, here are the top things to know before climbing the mountain jewel Mount Elbrus.
Buy Summit Climbing Gear
First, you need to be physically fit and agile before considering the Mount Elbrus climb. The trekking is demanding, and climbers can expect 12-15 hours round trip. Equip yourself with suitable clothing and trekking gear. Proper hiking boots, down jacket, and waterproof gear are a must, as also a range of Merino wool garments and decent quality gloves.
Many shops offer a wide range of gear rentals at affordable prices. Take the help of your mountain guide in selecting hiking gear for your need. Avoid investing in expensive technical hiking gear you may use only once. Apart from the technical challenge of climbing Mount Elbrus, you need to plan the logistics if you are not using a tour company. Although a guide is not essential for a summit hike, it is money well spent. A tour company will help you organize your mountain trip – from transportation back and forth to the summit, lodging, meals, climbing gear rental, etc.
Carry Vitamins And Nutritional Supplements
Nutritious food is essential for any mountain hike, although it’s challenging to eat at an altitude. Nutritional supplements are vital to maintaining a healthy and robust immune system throughout the trip. The high exertion does not always seem appealing, so make sure you have ample vitamins and protein bars for the hike to improve your recovery and wellbeing.
Consider carrying glucose sweets for your summit night. Choose familiar snacks to help your tummy face a hard time with the altitude. Carry a little treat when you need it the most in your mountain climb. There are two routes to reach Mount Elbrus: the northern and southern hemispheres. The latter is significantly more accessible than the north. The hiking success rate from the south is about 80-90 per cent, in contrast to the northern route, where the success rate is around 50 per cent. Climbing Elbrus from the south will take you 5-6 days and 6-7 days from the north. The hiking success rate from the south is about 80-90 per cent, in contrast to the northern route, where the success rate is around 50 per cent. Climbing Elbrus from the south will take you 5-6 days and 6-7 days from the north.
The Bottom Line
Make sure you apply for a Russia visa ahead of the Elbrus hike. While trekking Elbrus, the sun can be punishing. Apply a sunblock of SPF 50 throughout the climb for UV protection. Carry a lightweight brimmed sunhat to wear on days when the sun is shining to save yourself from headaches.
