- 60° 37′ N, 5° 37′ E
Preikestolen or Pulpit rock is a cliff that rises 604 meters above the Lysefjord. It is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Norway and is over 10.000 years old. Also the hike to this amazing scenery is breathtaking and will reward you with the most incredible views over the Lysefjord.
About the hike
Distance: 8 Kilometer (total)
Height difference: 334m
Total elevation: 500m
Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Type: Out & back trail (walk the same trail back)
Level: Easy – Moderate – Difficult – Expert
The hike to Preikestolen is around 4km, so the total hike is 8km. You will have to ascend in total 500 meters to reach the top. It is a moderate difficult hike and the terrain alternates between stone paths and stairs, rocks, bridges and swampland. The path is very clear and passable with a few steep ascents. Nepalese Sherpas have built decent stairs which makes the walk a little more comfortable. Keep an eye on the red ‘T’, it is the typical Norway sign to signpost the hiking route.
You start your hike from the information center where the walk starts on a fairly steep pebble path. After the pebble path you arrive in a forrest where the path smoothens out a little. This is where the path becomes more rocky and the more you move on the more the terrain will shift from rocky to stone stairs and swampland with decking paths, until you reach the gorgeous cliff of Preikestolen.
You will pass by some amazing views over lakes and fjords. Take your time, stop every now and then and take a look around. You will be amazed by some incredible sceneries.
When to hike to Preikestolen?
You can hike to Preikestolen all year round but you have to be prepared for different weather conditions.
The peak season is from June to August. Weather conditions will be nice but during these months it can get really (extremely) crowded along the trail and on the cliff.
If you want to avoid the crowds, and if you can, it is best to hike to Preikestolen off-season. But be prepared for different weather conditions and less hours of light, especially during winter.
If you want to have Preikestolen all to yourself we recommend you start hiking before sunrise, or you can stay overnight along the trail.
Note: It is not allowed to camp on Preikestolen itself, please have respect for this.
Visit https://preikestolen365.com for more detailed information on how to avoid the crowds and the best time to visit.
How to reach the Preikestolen hike?
There are two parking lots: A lower parking (P1) and an upper parking (P2). We recommend you parking at the lower parking.
Parking fee: 250 NOK
There’s also a bus driving from Stavanger to Preikestolen. For more details check https://preikestolen365.com.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Wear proper shoes as you’ll have to clamber over slippery rocks. There are no facilities along the way so bring enough food and water with you. And visit the toilet before you start hiking.Sun protection is a must on sunny days as you’ll have to walk a while without shelter. The weather in the mountains can change quickly. Always check the weather predictions before you start hiking.
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