Elbrus Team In Position

July 22, 2016

Time to catch up with Mike Hamill and crew over in Russia.  When Mike’s on the trip, things usually go smoothly and this is again the case.  No hiccups with the flight down to Mineralnye Vody and the transfer up to the Baksan Valley.  With any big mountain you need some time to acclimate and a little technique refresher is never a bad idea, either.  Both are now a wrap.  A hike to the local observatory on the slopes of Elbrus and another day spent getting some skills review filled their first two days in the Valley.  Now, it’s time to head onto the mountain and get into position to take a shot at Elbrus.  Team wants 2 nights at the high hut to further their acclimatization before taking the shot.  Goals now are to continue to stay healthy and hope they’ve been living right and that good weather will greet them the morning of their summit attempt.

Phil Ershler