Mount Elbrus, Russia

The inspiring title "Seven Summits" is a list of the tallest peak on each of the earth's continents.  A member of this elite "Seven Summits" Club, Mount Elbrus, at 5,642m (18,510ft) is the tallest mountain in Europe and joins other giants on the list such as Mount Everest, Aconcagua and Kilimanjaro.  Located in the Western Caucasus Mountains in Russia, Mount Elbrus is a dormant, twin-summitted volcano that was first climbed in 1874.  Standing atop the summit of this impressive peak will be the ultimate achievement – one that some only dream about, but that you have a chance to accomplish.

We'll start our adventure in the culturally rich capital of Moscow where we'll meet before making our way to the Caucasus Mountains to begin our acclimatization. We'll climb peaks in the area such as VIA-tau (3820m/ 12,533'), Gumatchi (3810m/12,500'), and Trapezoid as we take in the scenery of the beautiful Caucasus Mountains while our bodies get used to the altitude.  To finish off this adventure in style, we’ll put this experience and training to good use as we make an attempt on our ultimate objective – the West Summit of Mount Elbrus.

Whether you are on a quest for the Seven Summits, or just looking for a truly unique, never-to-be-forgotten experience, be sure to join us for this Russian adventure.

Level of Difficulty This is a technically moderate, high altitude mountaineering experience.  Climbing days will be demanding, with long days at elevations between 4500m and 5600m. Ascents are mostly on snow and ice with many easy and moderate climbs.  Glacier travel and snow climbing experience are beneficial. A good level of fitness is needed, as you will be climbing for 5-8 hours a day with a 9-12 kg (20-25 lb) pack over snow, ice and rock.
Information package: Click Here - COMING SOON Info on sign up process
Photo: © Adam Harris Photo: © Adam Harris		2009 Planned Itinerary* July 4 - Meet in Moscow July 5 - Fly to the Mineralnye Vody in Stavropol Krai on the northern edge of the Caucasus Mountains, transfer to Baksan valley July 6 - Transfer to Zelenaya Gostinitsa (which translates to the Green Bivouac), 2800m July 7 - 8 - Acclimatizion climbs on the summits of VIA-tau and Gumatchi July 9 - rest day July 10 - Climb Trapezoid July 11 - Transfer to hotel July 12 - Transfer to Priut - the main Hut on the mountain (4200m) July 13 - Acclimatization climb to 4800m July 14 - Mount Elbrus - Summit Day (5644m) July 15 - Return to Baksan Valley July 16 - alternate summit day in case of bad weather July 17 - transfer to Min. Vody and fly to Moscow July 18 - Trip ends in Moscow *Subject to change

Included Guiding throughout the camp Accommodation and mealts throughout the trip (except while in Moscow). Local transportation All group gear	Photo: © Adam Harris
Not Included Transportation to/from Moscow. Accommodation and meals while in Moscow Personal gear (see equipment list)

Staff:

ACMG Mountain Guide Helen Sovdat		Camp Manager Zac Robinson
Helen is a certified IFMGA guide (International Federation of Mountain Guides Association) and is currently based in the Canadian Rockies. She is one of five internationally certified woman guides in Canada. She has been a member of the ACC for over 25 years and been involved with a variety of outdoor programs ranging from skiing to climbing and leadership training. Helen leads international expeditions all over the world and has visited the Andes, Nepal and Mongolia with her groups. She looks forward to sharing adventures around the globe with ACC members.		Dr. Zac Robinson is a mountaineering historian who currently teaches in the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation at the University of Alberta.  On all of the summer and winter camps that Zac has camp managed for the ACC in the past 5 years, participants have benefited immeasurably from his experience, love of the mountains, and winning attitude.

Other great global trips offered by the Alpine Club of Canada:

	Ecuador November 9 – 29, 2008		Best of Nepal Trekking Camp October 6 - 24, 2009
	Mount Elbrus, Russia July 4 - 18, 2009
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See also: Custom Adventures | Leadership Training | Summer Adventures | Winter Adventures