ELBRUS NORTH OR SOUTH SIDE? In 2016 we are considering changing our Elbrus itinerary to climb the mountain from the North side. To date we have used the classic route from the south side sleeping in huts and using ski lifts & snow cats to help us ascend the mountain. If we change to the North side we will be camping for the entire time and need to ascend the entire mountain on foot. The summit day from the North side will be over twice as long and the expedition will be much tougher without being any harder technically. What's your preference?