Mt Elbrus Overview

Year round skiing on Europe's highest peak (5633 M), lifts exceptionally cheap (as is heli skiing option) but often broken down. A ski cat tow to 4700m in Winter and 5100 M in Summer is normally offered as an alternative or in addition when fixed lifts are operational ($6 - $10 US per trip). This opens up massive vertical and impressive off-piste options. The base hotel 'Azau' closed for 'reconstruction' in the mid-1980s and reportedly shows no sign or re-opening. Operational hotels begin 1.5 to 2 KM away and are reached by bus or taxi ($1 - $2US each way). On average there are a maximum of 500skiers on the slopes daily, more at weekends and in school holidays.