Mt Ushba

There is a ridge to climb from where it must be possible to see Mt Ushba. It is a prominent peak in the Caucasus range at 4967 meters. Mt Elbrus the highest in the range at 5600m is located out of view further North in Russia.

It is a 2000 plus meter climb. At the top of the first section I step out of the woods into a sudden view of another range. My jaw dropped, it was so stunning, so sudden, so unexpected. I love surprises like that. There is a viewing platform and hikers that were brought up by 4x4 from town. I stay sitting still just to dry out, staring over this 270 degree display of tectonic lifting work.

Reaching the lakes is the next section, it's still steep. More people but not busy. There are views all around. The sun is shining, it's just splendid.

The lakes are just like Paradise Divide in Crested Butte, 4x4s, people taking pictures, enjoying the views.

It would be easy to just lay in the grass and enjoy the sunshine, the peak I seek is in the clouds anyway. But I did climb the rest of the way and reached the ridge. Nobody else there all day.Read more