The north climbing route requires more commitment and is more remote than the south route. Also contributing to this is the fact that on the lower altitudes of the mountain this route can offer less in the way of infrastructure. However, this also means less human intrusion onto the landscape. With mechanical support brought to a minimum, the tour to Elbrus from the north is mainly camping, with the summit route being longer and harder, and requiring good teamwork and/or winter camping skills since, if the weather is favourable, it involves an interim camp at or gaining 2000 vertical meters/6561 vertical ft up and down. The Elbrus ascent by the north route offers a rich ice and snow experience under unpredictable weather conditions.