Page 25 - 2001/02 AMA Winter

basic knowledge of crampon and ice axe skills would be able to climb the mountain and therefore it is becoming a popular desti­ nation for Eastern European walkers. By comparison the mountains of the main Caucasus Ridge are far more challenging. They are similar in character to the steeper Western Alps such as the Bernese Oberland, except there are FAR less people!
Political clearance is required for Russia but was easy to obtain by just filling in the right form and giving details of the trip. Bridget and Mark flew into Moscow and then allowed a British adventure tour company ‘EWP’ to arrange all of the admin. An outstanding service was provided including; transfers to the Baksan Valley (the heart of the Caucasus), hotel, hut and tented accommodation, food throughout the exped, and an English speaking Russian Guide. During the two week trip, the couple spent 7 days climbing minor peaks and acclimatising prior to moving up to the new Pruit Hut (4150m) on the slopes of Elbrus. A further days acclimatisation at the hut and the couple were ready for the long
slog up. At 0300hrs on 1st August, Bridget and Mark set off for the summit. Whilst lighting flashed over the high peaks of Georgia the dark sky remained clear over Elbrus. The wind from 5000m upwards was biting and spindrift stung exposed skin. In just 7 hours the pair had climbed 1500m and we standing ‘on top of Europe’. The descent to the hut is far quicker. With a sturdy pair of trousers and confident use of an ice axe, its is possible to ’bum-slide’ your way down the majority of the route, therefore summit to Hut in just 1 hour!!!
So what did you do on your leave ???
If you are interested in more info on either of these trips call Mark Smyth on Hereford Mil 3246.