Designated in 2023 as an IMTA International Mountain Hiking Tourism Model Route, Russia's Mount Elbrus Circuit is in the central Caucasus Mountains, circling Europe's highest peak, Mount Elbrus (5,642m). Its core features are "extreme alpine glacial landscapes + professional mountaineering/hiking experience," making it a challenging destination for high-altitude enthusiasts and a carrier for experiencing Caucasian mountain culture.

The core circuit is about 35km, a 4-5 day hike of moderate-to-high difficulty, ascending from the base camp at 2,200m to a glacial viewpoint at 4,600m. It traverses alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and glacial terrain. Key sights include the vast glaciers of Elbrus's twin peaks. In summer, glacial crevasses and seracs are visible; winter transforms it into a snow-covered world. Hikers pass summer pastures of traditional Caucasian nomadic tribes, often encountering sheep and horses, gaining insight into local pastoral life.

Professional support is paramount. The starting point is the Cheget base camp on Elbrus's southern slopes, offering gear rental, professional guides, and mountaineering training. Three high-mountain stations along the route provide shelter, warmth, food, water, and medical rescue. As an IMTA route, strict ecological rules apply, including daily visitor limits. Hikers need prior permits and insurance. The best season is June-August, when glaciers are relatively stable and the weather is milder. Winter expeditions cater primarily to experienced mountaineers with full ice-climbing gear.