At a Glance
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Pulpit Rock Norway Hike
Rising 604 metres above the Lysefjord, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) stands as one of Norway’s most iconic natural landmarks. This flat-topped cliff platform, measuring approximately 25 by 25 metres, offers unobstructed views straight down to the fjord waters below—creating one of the world’s most photographed viewpoints and Norway’s most famous hike.
According to Visit Norway, over 300,000 hikers make the pilgrimage to Preikestolen annually, making it “one of Norway’s most famous mountain hikes” and an essential experience for visitors to Fjord Norway.
Trail Overview
Key Statistics
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 8 km round trip (4 km each way) |
| Elevation gain | 500 metres |
| Duration | 4 hours total (2 up, 1 at top, 2 down) |
| Difficulty | Moderate/Demanding |
| Trailhead | Preikestolen Fjellstue |
| Cliff height | 604 metres above Lysefjord |
Trail Difficulty
Visit Norway classifies Preikestolen as a “moderately demanding” hike requiring some experience on rough terrain. The trail alternates between:
- Relatively flat, easy sections
- Steep climbs up natural rock staircases
- Rough granite terrain
- Boardwalk sections over wet areas
Physical requirements:
- Good general fitness
- Ability to handle uneven rocky terrain
- Comfortable with steep ascents
- Ankle support recommended (hiking boots)
What to Expect on the Trail
First section (1 km): Relatively gentle start with wooden boardwalks over marshy terrain, gradually transitioning to rocky path.
Middle section (2 km): The trail becomes more challenging with steep sections climbing over large granite boulders and natural rock steps. This is the most demanding part.
Final approach (1 km): More moderate terrain leading to the iconic cliff platform. The last stretch offers glimpses of the views ahead.
At the top: The flat rock platform measures approximately 25 x 25 metres. There are no guardrails—the cliff drops vertically to the fjord 604 metres below. Despite this, there have been no recorded accidental falls from Preikestolen.
Book Guided Preikestolen HikeBest Time to Visit
Hiking Season (May - October)
May:
- Trail typically snow-free
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Variable weather
- Longer daylight hours beginning
June - August:
- Best weather conditions
- Warmest temperatures
- Longest days
- Peak crowds (up to 5,000 daily visitors)
- Essential to start early
September - October:
- Fewer hikers
- Autumn colours
- Cooler temperatures
- Shorter days
- More unpredictable weather
Avoiding Crowds
With over 300,000 annual visitors concentrated in summer months, Preikestolen can become extremely crowded.
Strategies:
- Start early: Begin hiking before 8 AM (some suggest as early as 3 AM for sunrise)
- Visit shoulder season: May or September-October
- Go on weekdays: Weekends are busiest
- Late afternoon: Consider starting mid-afternoon for sunset (bring headlamp for descent)
Winter Hiking (November - April)
Winter hiking to Preikestolen is possible but requires:
- Professional guide (mandatory recommendation)
- Special winter equipment (crampons, ice axes)
- Appropriate winter clothing
- Experience in winter mountain conditions
Several operators offer guided winter hikes for those seeking a snow-covered adventure.
Getting to Preikestolen
From Stavanger
Stavanger is the gateway city, located approximately 45 minutes from the trailhead.
By car:
- Drive via the Ryfast tunnel (opened 2019)
- No ferry required on this route
- Parking at Preikestolen: NOK 250-300 (~£20-24)
- Parking facilities fill quickly in summer—arrive early
By bus: The Preikestolen Express Bus operated by Go Fjords runs during hiking season:
- Duration: 50 minutes from Stavanger
- Cost: Approximately NOK 550 (~£42) round trip
- Schedule: 2 departures in April/May/September, 4 departures June-August
- Booking: Advance reservation recommended
By ferry + bus combination: Alternative scenic routes via ferry from Stavanger to Tau, then bus to trailhead.
Trailhead Facilities
Preikestolen Base Camp (at Preikestolen Fjellstue) offers:
- Large parking area
- Restaurant and café
- Toilet facilities
- Water refill station
- Equipment shop
- Accommodation options
What to Bring
Essential Gear
Footwear:
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- Good grip soles for wet granite
- Broken-in before the hike
Clothing:
- Wind and waterproof outer layer
- Warm layers (temperatures drop at elevation)
- Hat, scarf, gloves (even in summer)
- Extra change of clothes
Supplies:
- Minimum 1.5 litres water per person
- Snacks and lunch
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
Navigation and Safety:
- Charged mobile phone
- Map and compass (don’t rely solely on phone)
- Headlamp/torch (if starting early or returning late)
- Weather check at Yr.no before departure
What NOT to Bring
- Heavy rucksacks (you carry everything both ways)
- Flip-flops or unsuitable footwear
- Drones (prohibited in many areas)
- Unrealistic expectations (this is a real hike, not a stroll)
Safety Considerations
At the Cliff
- No guardrails: Stay well back from the edge
- No recorded accidental falls: Exercise normal caution
- Wind gusts: Can be strong and sudden near the edge
- Wet rock: Extremely slippery when wet
- Photography: Don’t take unnecessary risks for photos
On the Trail
- Stay on marked path: Don’t create shortcuts
- Weather awareness: Conditions change rapidly
- Turn back if needed: No shame in abandoning a hike
- Daylight: Plan to return before dark (or bring headlamp)
- Tell someone: Share your hiking plans
Emergency Information
- Emergency number: 112
- Mountain rescue: 02694
- Mobile coverage: Generally good on main trail
- Weather updates: Yr.no
Guided Tours
Benefits of Guided Hikes
- Local knowledge and storytelling
- Safety support
- Transport included
- Flexibility for different fitness levels
- Essential for winter hiking
Tour Options
Standard guided hike:
- Duration: 6-8 hours including transport
- Departs from Stavanger
- April-October
- Group sizes vary
Combined hike and cruise:
- Hike Preikestolen
- Fjord cruise on Lysefjord
- Full day experience
- See the cliff from above AND below
Sunrise/sunset hikes:
- Special departures for photographers
- Fewer crowds
- Magical lighting
Winter expeditions:
- Professional guides required
- Special equipment provided
- Unique snow-covered experience
Nearby Attractions
Lysefjord
The fjord below Preikestolen deserves exploration:
Fjord cruises:
- See Preikestolen from below (604 metres up!)
- Kjerag cliff views
- Waterfalls and wildlife
- Various tour lengths
Kjeragbolten
The famous boulder wedged between two cliffs:
- More challenging hike than Preikestolen
- 10-12 hours round trip
- Located at Kjerag mountain
- Iconic photo opportunity
Stavanger
Norway’s fourth-largest city offers:
- Old Stavanger (historic wooden houses)
- Norwegian Petroleum Museum
- Excellent restaurants and cafés
- Coastal walks
- Airport connections
Flørli
Home to the world’s longest wooden staircase:
- 4,444 steps
- Accessible by ferry from Lysebotn
- Challenging full-day hike
- Alternative adventure
Accommodation
At the Trailhead
Preikestolen Fjellstue:
- Closest option to trailhead
- Traditional mountain lodge
- Restaurant on-site
- Perfect for early starts
Preikestolen Camping:
- Budget-friendly option
- Tent and cabin options
- Facilities available
In Stavanger
Most visitors base themselves in Stavanger:
- Wide range of hotels
- Easy access to trailhead
- City attractions after hiking
- Good restaurants
Other Options
- Lilland Hotell: Between Stavanger and trailhead
- Jørpeland: Small town near ferry terminal
- Hjelmeland: Rural fjord accommodation
Sample Itineraries
Day Trip from Stavanger
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 6:00 | Early breakfast |
| 7:00 | Drive/bus to trailhead |
| 8:00 | Begin hike |
| 10:00 | Arrive Preikestolen summit |
| 11:00 | Begin descent |
| 13:00 | Return to trailhead, lunch |
| 14:00 | Return to Stavanger |
Two-Day Lysefjord Adventure
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Stavanger, explore Old Town, early dinner |
| 2 | Early Preikestolen hike, afternoon Lysefjord cruise |
Three-Day Active Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Stavanger, orientation |
| 2 | Preikestolen hike (full day) |
| 3 | Lysefjord cruise OR Kjeragbolten (advanced) |
Practical Information
Costs
- Parking: NOK 250-300 (~£20-24)
- Bus (round trip): NOK 550 (~£42)
- Guided tour: NOK 900-1,500 (~£70-115)
- Fjord cruise: NOK 500-800 (~£38-62)
- Combined tour: NOK 1,500-2,500 (~£115-190)
Trail Etiquette
- Stay on marked trails
- Carry out all rubbish
- Respect other hikers
- Don’t create stone cairns
- Leave no trace
Fitness Preparation
If you’re not regularly active:
- Train 2-4 weeks before
- Practise walking on uneven terrain
- Build stamina with long walks
- Strengthen legs and core
Final Advice
Preikestolen delivers one of the world’s most spectacular viewpoints, but it earns its reputation through a proper mountain hike. Come prepared with appropriate footwear, sufficient supplies, and realistic expectations. Check weather forecasts, start early to avoid crowds, and take your time.
The moment you step onto that flat rock platform, with 604 metres of air between you and the fjord—surrounded by Norway’s dramatic landscape—you’ll understand why over 300,000 people make this pilgrimage every year. It’s truly unforgettable.
Information in this guide is sourced from Visit Norway and regional tourism authorities. Trail conditions change—always verify current status before hiking. Last updated January 2026.