The Highest Mountains in Russia

It is the largest country on Earth, straddling the continents of Europe and Asia and spanning eleven time zones and almost a tenth of the world’s land mass. This is Russia. And within it lie a wealth of incredible rivers, sprawling forests, giant lakes and, of course, huge mountains.

So, how big are Russia’s highest peaks and where can they be found? We’re here to summit all up, starting with the highest point in Russia.

Height: 18,510 feet | Range: Caucasus Mountains

In addition to being Russia’s highest peak, Mount Elbrus is the tallest mountain in Europe and the tenth tallest mountain in the world. Also spelled El’brus, it is considered one of the Seven Summits, the highest mountains on each of the seven continents.

Mount Elbrus forms part of the Caucasus Mountains in southern Russia. In fact, all of the highest mountains in Russia are part of this alpine range, which is said to be amongst the longest in the world, running between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea.

Mount Elbrus is an extinct volcanic cone, and its last known eruption occurred in circa 50 AD. A stratovolcano, it has two separate peaks, each over 18,000 feet in height. The taller of the two, known as the East Peak or Greater Summit, is the one most often climbed.

Elbrus is a popular destination for climbers and adventurers alike, due to its relative ease of ascent compared to other peaks of its size.

Height: 17,077 ft feet | Range: Caucasus Mountains

Dykh-Tau is the second tallest mountain in Russia, the Caucasus Mountains and in Europe. Located in the Russian republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, Mount Dykh-Tau is considered one of the most challenging climbs in the Caucuses. Not only is it extremely steep, but also very icy and snowy. Its summit is approximately three miles north of the border with Georgia.

Height: 17,037 feet | Range: Caucasus Mountains

Just 40 feet shorter than Dykh-Tau and also located in the Kabardino-Balkaria region, Shkhara is the third biggest mountain in Russia. The mountain is split between Georgia and Russia, with its northern face within the latter. It forms part of the massif known as the Bezingi Wall and is known as a steep, challenging climb.

Height: 16,903 feet | Range: Caucasus Mountains

Often seen as the little brother to Dykh-Tau, Koshtan-Tau is the fourth highest mountain in Russia. It’s located near the border with Georgia and is a steep and icy mountain.

Height: 16,732 feet | Range: Caucasus Mountains

Pik Pushkina, possibly named after the poet AS Pushkin, is the fifth biggest mountain in Russia at 16,732 feet.

And so, while it is vast, all of Russia’s highest peaks are located together in the Caucasus Mountains and represent some of the highest points in Europe.