Mount Elbrus

An unguided ski ascent of the highest mountain in Europe, Elbrus (5642 m) in the Western Caucacus, Russia. Attempts on Mount Elbrus (5600m) around Easter usually turn into a long crampon plod up bullet-proof ice instead of a fine ski although some excellent touring in the main Caucasus range often compensates. At the end of June ski conditions on Elbrus should be perfect for ski descent from the top on good spring snow. 12 days should be adequate to acclimatise sufficiently to make the ascent of Elbrus, particularly if members have done some alpine touring earlier in the season. This is relatively non technical ski ascent but some mountaineering experience would be beneficial.