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.
- 60° 37′ N, 05° 37′ E
Overview
About the hike
8 km
334m
500m
4 - 5 hours
Out & Back Trail
Easy - Moderate - Difficult - Expert
The hike
The hike to Preikestolen is around 4km, so the total hike is 8km. You 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 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.
Find the best hotels close to Preikestolen here
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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.
12 most beautiful places in south-norway
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How to get to preikestolen
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 (€22,3)
There’s also a bus driving from Stavanger to Preikestolen. For more details check https://preikestolen365.com.
Rent your car in Norway here
via RentalCars
Tips & Safety considerations
Preikestolen is a very popular destinations among tourists, so it will probably not surprise you that it can get very busy here. If you want to have Preikestolen all to yourself, we recommend you to start hiking before sunrise. Alternatively you can also stay overnight along the trail. Note that it is not allowed to stay the night on Preikestolen itself.
Important hiking tips!
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
Sun protection is a must on sunny days as you'll have to walk a while whitout shelter
The weather in the mountains can change quickly. Always check the weather predictions before you start hiking.
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- Last updated July 25, 2023
