Mount Elbrus

Mount Elbrus is a dormant volcanic mountain in the western Caucasus and the highest summit in the region at 5,642 metres. It is widely recognised as the highest peak in Europe by the common geographical definition that places the Europe-Asia boundary along the Caucasus.

The mountain has two main peaks separated by a broad summit ridge, with the West summit the higher of the two. Climbers and ski-mountaineers use glacier-covered routes from the northern and southern approaches; guided ascents are common and require glacier skills and altitude acclimatisation.

Many visitors also come for surrounding valley scenery, base-camp facilities and nearby highland towns that serve as staging points for climbs and alpine recreation.

Elbrus’s volcanic origins and glaciation have shaped its present form. It has long been a mountaineering objective; over time ropeways, huts and guide services have developed on its lower slopes to support climbs.

The mountain sits on the northern side of the Greater Caucasus within Russia’s Kabardino-Balkaria republic, forming a prominent landmark visible across nearby highland valleys.

• Elevation: Elevation is 5,642 metres, making it the highest mountain in the Caucasus and often cited as the highest in Europe by most mountaineering definitions.
• Climbing season: Climbing season is typically June to August when snow conditions are most stable; routes are glaciated and commonly climbed with guides and acclimatisation days.

What to See #

• West summit (higher peak): The West summit is the higher main peak at 5,642 metres and is the principal objective for mountaineers claiming the highest point of Europe.
• East summit (secondary peak): The East summit reaches approximately 5,621 metres and lies about one kilometre from the West summit along the broad crater rim.