Alpine Ascents Elbrus Expedition Itinerary

Itinerary Overview
The location of Elbrus provides a look into the cultures of the Turkish, Georgian, Azerbaydzhani and Russian people. Our expedition begins in the city of St. Petersburg, a traditional vanguard of European culture. It is one of the few cities in the world which has retained its charm while continuing to be a place of great change. Downtown sprawls with exquisite architecture that canopies streets of shops, small restaurants and an active nightlife scene. Following our climb we return to Moscow, the focal point of commerce and politics in Russia. Moscow is ever-changing with markets and state shops dominating street life. Depending on schedules, we take time to visit the Kremlin, stroll Red Square along the Moscow River and tour the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts.

For Travel Arrangements call Charles Mulvehill at Scan East West Travel: 1-800-727-2157 or 206-623 2157. charles@scaneastwest.com

2006 Day-to-day Itinerary
Days 1 - 2 Fly to St. Petersburg. Climbers need to arrive by the scheduled arrival times or make special pick up arrangements with Alpine Ascents for an additional fee.

Day 3 We begin our journey with a tour of St. Petersburg. Here we meet our Russian friends and tour this spectacular city. We visit the world renowned Hermitage, considered one of Europe’s finest museums with vast collections of Rembrandt, Monet, Van Gogh, Rodin and Picasso displayed amidst architectural splendor. We also visit the St. Peter & Paul Fortress. We Overnight in hotel.

Day 4 Flight to Mineral Vody. After breakfast we fly south to Mineral Vody (mineral water), and travel by bus to our hotel in the Baksan Valley. The Baksan is known for as the center of mountaineering, tourism and mountain skies where climbing camps are situated. Mountaineers from all over the the regions of Russia come to the foot of Mt. Elbrus to make ascents and develop the technical skills necessary to climb great peaks around the world. We have a thorough equipment check and orientation including principles of Leave No Trace environmental ethics.

Day 5 The acclimatization process begins by hiking in the beautiful Baksan Valley. The trails wind delicately throughout the foothills and offer exquisite views of Mt. Elbrus’ twin peaks. We usually take the ski tram (to 9,000 feet and hike to 11,000 feet) and lodge at a nice hotel.

Day 6 Acclimatization hike to local observatory. This is a long day of walking with slight altitude increases. By the end of this day most climbers are feeling strong and accustomed to the altitude.

Day 7 Move gear to “barrels” where we lodge at about 12,000 feet. We use the tram and ski lift to help move our gear. Here we put on crampons and hike up to the old Pruitt Hut. Sleep in Barrels. (Lodging conditions such as the “barrels” and Pruitt Hut change from year to year depending on current construction. Our schedule may be adjusted to utilize the best available shelters.)

Day 8 Hike to Pastukov rocks (15,416 feet) and travel back to lodging.

Day 9 Move to hut and spend the afternoon readying ourselves for the summit attempt. Lodge in Hut.

Day 10 Summit day. Depart camp via Sno-cat at 3:00am and ride to Pastukov Rocks area. From the rocks we begin our summit ascent. It is a long summit day and look for a 12-hour round trip climb. From the summit we have excellent views of the Caucuses, including Ushba, the Matterhorn of the region. Descend to lodging.

Day 11 Remain at lodging.

Day 12 Hiking, barbecue and celebration. (Days 11-12 can also be used as extra summit days).

Day 13 Return flight from Mineral Vody to Moscow.

Day 14 Tour of Moscow. This final night is a ‘free’ night for climbers to unwind from the climb as they desire. (Meals not covered for this night).

Day 15 Depart Moscow.  Return to Top of Page