December 11 is an International Mountain Day What mountains can I visit in the СMV on my own?

The Caucasus Mineralnye Vody is a resort that welcomes guests all year round, and everyone here will find something to their liking.

In winter, people come here to enjoy the beauty of the mountains, the magnificent views that open up before their eyes. The mild climate is ideal for long hikes into the mountains. At this time of the year it is warmer here than in many other Russian cities: the temperature usually ranges from +5 to -3 degrees Celsius. That being said, sunny days are plentiful and the amount of rain and snowfall is minimal.

There is a lot to see on your own in the vicinity of the Caucasus Mineralnye Vody. There are 17 laccoliths mountains in the region, let’s take a closer look at the most popular ones:

1. Mount Beshtau, location: 44.098038°, 43.022187°.

This is the highest peak of the Caucasus Mineralnye Vody, 1401 meters high. Its name means “five mountains” in Turkic language. There are several routes to climb the mountain, they will suit the complexity of both beginners and experienced travelers. Conquering the top of Beshtau is not only a physical challenge. It is a pleasant challenge and an opportunity to enjoy spectacular views of the Caucasus Mineralnye Vody from a bird’s eye view.

2. Mashuk Mountain, location: 44.049522°, 43.089718°.

The height of this laccolith is only 993 meters. Goryachaya Mountain and Mashuk are favorite walking routes for vacationers and residents of the Caucasus Mineralnye Vody. There are a lot of both well-maintained and little-known paths, viewpoints and Pyatigorsk sights: Lake Proval, Shameless Baths, Gate of Love, Chinese Arbor, Aeolian Harp. The summit is crowned by a TV tower with a wonderful place for a view and commemorative plaques with the names of the cities whose tourists have conquered the summit at least once.

3. Iron Mountain, Location: 44°8′26.2 N, 43°1′50 E.

At the foot of this low laccolith (853 m), the Zheleznovodsk Resort Park is spread out. There are several terrenekurs and trails of varying degrees of difficulty leading to the summit. The routes are very picturesque, winding through dense coniferous and deciduous forest. The climb usually takes about an hour.

General recommendations before independently climbing to the top of any CMV laccoliths:

  • get on the route as early as possible to make the most of the short daylight hours;
  • walk in comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for the season, and bring trekking poles. Remember that it is always colder at the top than at the bottom;
  • bring a snack and a supply of water (or a thermos with a hot drink);
  • it is essential to study the route map, use a navigator; or use the service of an experienced guide.