Mt. Elbrus

[texasclimbingcouple]

My husband and I are debating about what Elbrus route to take - south, north, or east. We will definitely use guides. All options sound nice, but the North sounds a bit more up our alley in terms of "roughing it" and challenging ourselves a bit more. We are traditionalists and do not want to ride a snowmobile or lift up the mountain. Additionally, the North route sounds much less populated and more scenic (beautiful). Help! We need some advice from the experts on what climb would suit us best.

[xara]

All sides of Elbrus are accessible and there are simple (walking) routes from all sides.

However only South side routes are available on the spot - just come and climb.

All other sides require more or less expedition: special 4x4 vehicle transportation, there are no shops no hotels, no local population etc.

Well for people who have time, experience of traveling in mountains, can carry big gear, live in tents for a couple of weeks irregardless of weather - it is possible and even not very hard.

However if you wish a tourist company arranges this tour for you this may be a problem. During the season all companies encounter lack of qualified personnel so sending full crew (cars, porters, guide(s), cook) just for accompanying a couple of people for 2 weeks is either VERY expensive for you or VERY cost/expenses/staff ineffective affair for a company.

That is why normally companies do not offer such expeditions for small groups for North, West and East routes. Big group request or joining a public scheduled group is ok but a small independent party does not cause companies to feel enthusiasm.

[texasclimbingcouple]

Thank you for your prompt reply on the Elbrus routes. Fortunately, we do have the time and experience of traveling in the mountains, as well as carrying big gear. We are very accustomed to sleeping in tents and would like more of an expedition type experience in order to prepare us for our future adventures.

I believe your company offers an expedition style climb up the North side that takes 11 days. There is only the one trip planned in mid-late July, but this would work just fine for us. Is this trip still planned for your company? If so, we would be interested in signing up.

[xara]

Yes, Pilgrim offers one public Elbrus North side tour every season in July. Everybody is welcome to sign up through proper web page. By the moment 10 people signed up - from USA, UK, South Africa, Germany, Ireland and Malaysia.

[texasclimbingcouple]

OK, thanks for the info on the Elbrus north route. We've decided to sign up with your company. I've sent the inquiry to sign up via e-mail.