July 18, 2013
Waterfall on the way to the observatory (photo: Viki Tracey)
Mike called in to say that the gang all made it to Terskol, safe and sound. They had a good, sunny hike to an observatory and now are taking a day for a bit of refresher training on the lower slopes of Elbrus. Both these days also serve as great acclimatization.  Elbrus is, after all, around 18500 ft high and the air is appreciably thinner up there. Several days of acclimatization only make sense prior to any summer attempt. Mike reports that the weather is a bit wet right now but they’re hopeful that by the time a summit shot comes around that they’ll get the break they need. Everyone arrived fit and with all their gear so that’s a big plus.
We’ll hear more when the gang has time to report in.
Phil Ershler