Nature
Elbrus.
The country’s highest point, above the clouds.
A sense of place
Elbrus is a dormant stratovolcano in the Caucasus. Its western summit rises to 5,642 metres and its eastern summit to 5,621 metres. Since 1986 the mountain has been part of Prielbrusye National Park.
People & culture
The eastern summit was first climbed in 1829 by the guide Khillar Khashirov; the western summit in 1874 by a British party led by F. Crauford Grove. Today people come to climb, ski and learn ski touring.
Altitude demands acclimatisation and an experienced guide: plan any ascent or ski tour with a trusted team.
Sources & context
An editorial introduction. Archive photography. Checked 24 September 2026.
ANOTHER PERSPECTIVE
