Join MountainZone.com as we accompany Alpine Ascents International guide Vern Tejas on two expeditions to Russia's Mount Elbrus. Tejas will lead two trips, one beginning July 7 (with climber Jeff Mathy, 23, who is attempting to become the youngest person to scale the Seven Summits, including Carstenz Pyramid, among the team members), and another 10 days later.

Elbrus, the highest mountain on the European continent at 18,481 feet, stands on the divide between Europe and Asia. For the climber with moderate skills, Elbrus has great appeal. It presents both a strenuous and a highly rewarding climb for aspiring climbers who wish to test their skills at increasing altitude.

The mighty Caucases Range, in which Elbrus lies, links the Caspian Sea to the Black Sea, and creates the natural boundary between the steppes of Russia and the southern states of Azerbaydzhani, Georgia and Armenia. Mt. Elbrus, the pinnacle of this 700-mile stretch, has long been a distinguished climbing center for the European and Russian climbing communities. Elbrus can easily be seen from most of the high passes in the area and is a traditional climb for those looking to ascend to 18,500ft.

The expeditions come and go through the city of St. Petersburg, adding an unusual cultural element to this adventure.

— MountainZone.com Staff