What would you add to a Norway bucket list? There are so many great things to do in Norway that you’re spoilt for choice, but one option many rave about is Norway’s most famous hike, Preikestolen, aka Pulpit Rock.
So, is Preikestolen worth visiting? Preikestolen is absolutely worth visiting. The hike, the scenery, the views and the experience make it worthy of a bucket list.
However, before you start lacing up those boots, let’s review some important points that will influence your decision.
Unlike Tom’s Cruise experience of Preikestolen — Mission Impossible — this post gives you the essential information you need to make the Pulpit Rock Hike Mission POSSIBLE.
Having lived in Norway over the years, calling the quaint village of Skudeneshavn home, we have been privileged to experience many of its iconic and off-the-beaten-path attractions.
The cute white-wooden historic buildings, the blackened stave churches, the phenomenal hikes, the ethereal Northern Lights and the stunning scenery make a visit to Norway an unforgettable experience.
No wonder it’s a destination of choice for so many travellers.
🥾 Post Overview: Is it Worth Visiting Preikestolen? 🥾
- How to Prepare for Preikestolen: Physical Fitness, What Season to Visit?
- How do I Get to Preikestolen: Self-drive or Tour Operator?
- Preikestolen: The Early Days
- Our Experience of Hiking Preikestolen: Challenges and Rewards
- Is It Worth Visiting Preikestolen? The Pros and Cons Uncovered
- What to Wear to Hike Preikestolen: Ensure Your Safety and Enjoyment
- Where to Stay at Preikestolen and Stavanger: Extend Your Stay
Map: Preikestolen Norway Hiking Route
How to Use This Preikestolen Route Map
- To use this interactive map effectively, click the square icon in the upper right corner to expand.
- A key will appear on the left, guiding you through various locations.
- Clicking on any site reveals detailed information about that spot.
- Blue lines denote the driving route. Purple denotes the ferry routes.
- The Black marker denotes the trailhead.
- Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is denoted with a Pink marker.
- Other places we’ve personally visited are also highlighted with distinct location icons.
🥜 Preikestolen Hike: In a Nutshell
- Pulpit Rock Hike Distance: Roundtrip totalling 7.6 kilometres
- Hiking time (round trip): not including time spent at the top, it ranges from 3 to 5 hours (walk fast or slow—you decide!). Winter hike time is 5 to 6 hours.
- Technical difficulty: Medium (as per grading of Norway hikes). It’s recommended to have an average fitness level.
- Hike elevation gain: 350m from the Preikestolen Mountain Lodge car park to Pulpit Rock.
- Hiking Season: All year. During the winter season, it is recommended to use a guide.
- Hike Markers: The trail is well-marked.
- Drones: Flying a drone near the summit is illegal. A sign indicates the point past which you cannot fly a drone.
- Busiest months: June to September
- Area of Pulpit Rock: The plateau is roughly 25m x 25m (82ft x 82ft) in area.
- Car park cost: NOK 250 per day. Pay on exit.
- Toilets: adjacent to the Preikestolen Mountain Lodge car park. No facilities on the hike.
- Drinking Water: you must take your own drinking water with you.
- Use of Sunscreen and a hat in Summer is wise.
- Sustainability: Preikestolen has the ‘Sustainable Destination’ certification. Awarded to locations in Norway that successfully manage the increased tourism, preserve nature and keep people safe.
- Accessibility from Stavanger: The easiest and quickest route to Preikestolen is the Ryfylke Tunnel.
Preparation to Hike Preikestolen
Fitness Level
This 7.6 km roundtrip hike with 550 elevation gain is rated as ‘Medium’ difficulty using the Norway standard for grading trials. So what does this mean for me?
Under ‘ Medium’ difficulty, you’ll need average fitness and experience walking in terrain. Expect elevation gains of no more than 600m and a trail length of no more than 10km. The majority of people should meet this requirement.
Trail Condition
The hike rises rather steeply early on but after this tends to undulate, other sections are unstable underfoot and when the ground and rocks are wet or snow-covered, the stability becomes more hazardous.
Summer hiking poses fewer problems than winter hiking as the snow-covered ground may hide obstacles.
The last few hundred metres before reaching Preikestolen, the path parallels the precipice. From here, young children must be carefully watched, as there are no barriers to prevent a fall.
On the descent, walking down the final section of hand-crafted granite stone steps tends to jar the knees. Using walking sticks may help.
Despite the above hazards, you can have some peace of mind, Sherpas have been instrumental in improving the accessibility to Preikestolen, making the trail safer and the hike a more pleasurable experience for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Preikestolen
Each season brings its own unique appeal to Preikestolen, allowing for year-round hiking, weather permitting. Consider downloading and consulting the Norwegian app, yr.no, for accurate weather forecasts.
Summer Hike (June to August): This is the busiest time of the year, yet it offers the best chance for clear weather. The trail is free of snow. To avoid the crowds, starting your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon is best.
Autumn Hike (September to November): With fewer visitors, this season allows for a more personal experience at Preikestolen. Be mindful that the days grow shorter during this period.
Winter Hike (December to January): Hiking times generally extend to 5-6 hours. While hiking without a guide is possible, it’s generally not advised due to the challenging conditions.
Spring Hike (March to May): Expect snow-covered trails that gradually reveal spring’s growth. The days start to lengthen, providing more daylight for your hike.
How To Get To Preikestolen
Most visitors start their journey to Preikestolen from Stavanger, conveniently located just 40 km away.
By Tunnel and Road
The quickest and easiest route to Preikestolen is via the Ryfylke Tunnel, accessible by self-driving or taking an express bus. The Ryfylke Tunnel is notable for being the world’s longest and deepest subsea road tunnel for vehicles.
Costs vary depending on your mode of transportation:
- Self-drive: The tunnel toll for vehicles under 3 tonnes on a return trip is NOK 358. An automatic toll system is in place, and vehicles without an Auto-PASS tag must register for an account to manage toll invoices.
Preikestolen parking costs NOK 250 per day (overnight parking is not permitted), and there are about 1,000 spaces available. Vehicles will be directed to an Overflow Waiting Zone if the parking lot is full. Self-driving offers the most schedule flexibility. - Express bus: Return trips from Stavanger cost around NOK 480, with six hours allocated between pick-up and drop-off. Pre-booking is essential.
One-way tickets are available for those who wish to stay overnight and return the next day. This service is for transport only, not a guided tour.
Looking for a guided hike? This hike has great reviews and departs Stavanger for Preikestolen.
🥾 Book this Guided Hike to Preikestolen | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Star Reviews |
⏰ 9 hours
By Ferry and Road
Stavanger to Tau Ferry: This 25-minute ferry ride costs NOK 264 for a return trip. Continue on Rv13 via Jørpeland to Preikestolen. The ferry operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Ferry Schedules
Lauvvik to Oanes Ferry: Drive from Stavanger to Lauvvik and take a short ride to Oanes, then drive to Preikestolen Parking. Costs are NOK 145 per car under 5 meters, plus NOK 50 per passenger. Ferry Info and Booking
Preikestolen (aka Pulpit Rock): The Early Days
This flattish section of rock, shaped during the last ice age over 10,000 years ago, covers an area of roughly 25m x 25m with a sheer drop of 604m to Lysefjord (a 42-kilometre-long fjord).
Pulpit Rock was discovered in 1896, and it was mentioned then that it resembled the shape of a preacher’s pulpit. The first tourist visited Preikestolen in the early 1900s.
Today, it draws more than 300,000 visitors per year.
From 2013 to 2018, Sherpas were used to improve the trail quality and safety.
In 2020, Preikestolen was certified as one of Norway’s Scenic Hikes and a sustainable destination. This means that the not-for-profit organisation that oversees Preikestolen continues to reduce the negative impact of tourism on this popular Norwegian landmark.
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Our Experience of Hiking Preikestolen
Tackling the hike to Pulpit Rock might seem ambitious, but the reward of magnificent views makes it a challenge we were willing to accept. Here’s our experience stepping up to one of Norway’s iconic trails.
Hiking Pulpit Rock: Are We Crazy?
We had our hearts set on climbing the famous Pulpit Rock. This world-renowned hike was definitely one of the iconic hikes we wanted to tackle.
The long Summer days gave us plenty of daylight to achieve these fantastic hikes.
The night before, we had wild camped on the nearby mountain within a few kilometres of the Kjerag trailhead to start our day early and avoid any Summer crowds.
Having conquered Kjeragbolten, a challenging 12-kilometre hike to the ‘bolt in the mountain’, by midday, we were back at our car contemplating the next move. With a good ten hours of daylight left, we committed to throwing our energies into hiking the iconic Pulpit Rock Norway.
In hindsight, hiking both Kjerag and Preikestolen on the same day was physically demanding. We would recommend spreading the hikes over two days.
Commencing the Hike
Parking our car at P1, a mere 100m from the trailhead, we were soon treding the gravel road towards Preikestolen. Directions for the trail are well-placed.
As with all other Norwegian hiking trails, the red ‘T’s painted on the rocks act as trail markers ensuring you head in the right direction.
The initial part of the uphill gravel trail meanders through some pretty forested scenery with views over a pretty lake, Revsvatnet, before reaching a rocky section. It’s a bit uneven here so careful foot placement is required.
The large squared-off stones, laid by Nepalese Sherpas, indicate the uphill path. This early steep climb is the toughest part of the hike and once behind, you can expect more gentle rises.
Midway – Pulpit Rock Hike
The trail soon opens out onto a wide, open expanse of rock. The long, gentle uphill trail already has a handful of hikers on it.
Close by, the sounds of splashing drew us closer to a small lake where a couple of hikers had taken the plunge. We pushed on, following the trail markers.
Cresting the rise, the scenery expands and we have our first distant glimpses of Lysefjord. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and rest along the way.
Nearing The Summit
The trail passes over some strategically placed wooden pedestrian bridges with chained handrails, passing above the sections of difficult terrain. The bridges are designed for single-lane traffic so you may need to wait whilst others cross.
Quite quickly, you find yourself close to the rocky ledge. Preikestolen is very close. Following the cliff, the path winds its way over deep fissures, not large enough to fall through but small enough to trap your foot.
Peering down through the fissure, you can spy the Lysefjord, 600m below.
Reaching Pulpit Rock: Mission Accomplished
The last 100m of the hike brings Preikestolen into view. This final part of the hike is where you can grab some iconic photos that others have posted. There are no barriers to prevent a fall so be mindful of the edge if stepping backwards.
Our arrival time was 8:15 pm; there were less than a dozen people on the rock plateau. Pulpit Rock, pointing east, was already in deep shadow so it didn’t make for the best photos but those views!
So, depending on what type of experience you want at the top, timing it to arrive when Preikestolen is sunlit may be better.
Regardless, the hike was picturesque, and seeing this impressive feat of nature earned us bragging rights for Pulpit Rock. Before us lay a phenomenal landscape of grey craggy, plunging cliffs, deep and a crystalline blue fjord – a quintessential Norway picture-postcard view; visiting Preikestolen was absolutely worth it.
We’re not ones to be too brave, and given the 600m sheer drop to the Lysefjord below, approach the edge with utmost caution. It is advisable not to run or attempt stunts; should you wish to look over the edge, do so by lying on your stomach.
For even better views, you can climb the rise behind Preikestolen and venture even further away. See where the hikers have pitched their tent.
Descent from Pulpit Rock
With the day’s remaining light starting to soften, we started our descent, retracing our previous steps. The return journey is quicker and technically easier than the ascent.
We found that our knees were starting to feel the impact of the steps so we took a few breaks on the way back. The descent gives you another chance to soak up the incredible scenery, in the late afternoon light.
What to Wear When You Hike Preikestolen
The weather in Norway is variable year round with winter temperatures plunging below zero. Snow falls are usual during the late autumn, winter and early spring.
Preparation is key to avoiding a bad experience of Preikestolen. As a minimum you should wear or pack:
- sturdy hiking footwear
- woollen socks (extra pair for winter)
- breathable layers
- waterproof jacket and trousers
- head covering (beanie or hat, gloves, depending on the season)
- water and snacks
- a backpack to carry items and keep your hands free
- sunglasses
- phone for communication
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Is It Worth Visiting Preikestolen? The Pros and Cons Uncovered
Each season brings its unique charm to Preikestolen, making it a worthwhile destination year-round. To ensure you’re well-prepared, it’s advisable to check the weather using reliable sources like the Norwegian app, yr.no.
Pros:
- Accessibility: Close to the major city of Stavanger, just 40 km away.
- Travel Convenience: Easy and quick access via the Ryfylke Tunnel, by car or express bus.
- Manageable Difficulty: The hike is of moderate difficulty, suitable for most people with average fitness.
- Duration: Only requires a half-day, making it ideal for a quick adventure.
- Year-Round Access: Open throughout the year, each season offering a different hiking experience.
- Accommodations: Available at the trailhead, ranging from lodges to campsites.
- Less Crowded Off-Season: Quieter during the winter and shoulder seasons.
- Facilities: Well-equipped trailhead with amenities including a café.
Cons:
- Crowds in Summer: Can become quite busy, detracting from the peaceful nature experience.
- Longer Duration in Winter: Snowy conditions can extend the hiking time; using a guide is advisable.
- Not Suitable for Young Children in Winter: The challenging conditions make it less safe for young hikers.
- Lack of Facilities on the Trail: Prepare for self-sufficiency during your hike.
- Afternoon Shade: This can impact photography at Preikestolen, as the rock faces east and may be shadowed later in the day.
Where to Stay
Here are some accommodation options that won’t break the bank but still give good comfort.
Preikestolen Accommodation
Stavanger Accommodation
Wild Camp
As mentioned, we wild camped in the Norwegian mountains, which is a fantastic experience and absolutely legal under Norway’s ‘right to roam’ law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it Worth Visiting Pulpit Rock?
It is absolutely worth visiting Pulpit Rock with a dedicated hiking trail that people of average fitness level can walk. From the nearest big city Stavanger, a short 45-minute drive will have you at the Preikestolen car park.
How Long Does it Take To Walk Up Preikestolen?
From the car park, the round trip walking time to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is between 3 and 5 hours in summer and 5 to 6 hours in winter.
When Can You Hike Pulpit Rock?
Preikestolen can be hiked year-round. In Summer there is no snow on the trail and this coincides with the most popular time to visit. Winter sees fewer hikers, however, with the arrival of snow, it is recommended to have a guide with you.
Has Anyone Ever Fallen Off Preikestolen?
In February 2000, a young couple jumped off Pulpit Rock in a suicide pact. In 2013 a Spanish tourist fell from the edge of Pulpit Rock while taking photographs. The Norwegian government does not sensationalise these stories.
Is It Worth Visiting Preikestolen … That’s A Wrap
Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, stands as one of Norway’s most breathtaking and iconic hiking destinations, undeniably deserving of its place on any adventurer’s bucket list. The journey to the rock offers not just a hike but an experience, filled with stunning landscapes and the unique tranquility of Norway’s natural beauty.
From the carefully maintained trails to the sustainable tourism efforts, every aspect of Preikestolen is geared towards making your visit both memorable and enjoyable.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a new challenge or a casual walker looking to soak in some spectacular views, Preikestolen caters to all. With its moderate difficulty level and accessibility throughout the year, it offers an adventure that’s both exhilarating and accessible.
The hike promises majestic views and a rewarding experience with every step, culminating in the iconic flat-top plateau that offers a dramatic vista over the Lysefjord below.
Despite its popularity, which can lead to crowded trails in the summer, the off-peak seasons provide a quieter and perhaps even more initimate visit. And besides the natural beauty, there’s also the sense of achievement and the lasting memories you’ll create.
So, to answer the lingering question; yes, Preikestolen is absolutely worth visiting.
Have you hiked the mighty Preikestolen or are considering it? I’d love to hear about your plans or experience.
🇳🇴 More Information for Your Trip to Norway
NORWEGIAN FJORDS AND HIKES: Begin your adventure with our comprehensive guides to Norway’s best hikes. Discover the breathtaking views from Ryten in Lofoten, the thrill of Kjeragbolten, or the iconic Pulpit Rock. Each guide offers essential tips and stunning locations to explore.
LOFOTEN ISLANDS: Plan an unforgettable road trip through the Lofoten Islands with our Lofoten Road Trip Guide. Learn about each must-visit spot and how to make the most of your journey in this picturesque region.
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES: Dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of Norway. Whether it’s exploring ancient stave churches in our Stave Churches Guide or celebrating with the locals during the 17th of May National Day, there’s something for every traveler.
CITY EXPLORATIONS: Discover the urban charms of Norway by visiting its beautiful cities. Whether you’re strolling through Trondheim or exploring Bergen, start with our guides to Trondheim to Bodø and the vibrant city life in Stavanger.
EXTENSIVE ITINERARIES: If you are beginning to plan your journey, take a look at our Two-Week Norway Itinerary for diverse ways to experience the country, from the fjords to the northern lights.
For a full exploration of what Norway has to offer, visit our comprehensive Norway Travel Guide.
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My wife and I want to do the hike, but we only have 6 hours in port on a Viking cruise. Is there a way to get it done and be back to the ship in only 6 hours? Thanks!!
Hi David, 6 hours is cutting it fine but it is doable. I don’t know your ages or fitness levels however the hike is geared towards all ages. The return trip drive, from downtown Stavanger to Preikestolen car park, takes 1.5 hours. This leaves you 4.5 hours for the hike. We took roughly 3.5 hours in total starting the hike from the car park including 30 mins at the top to take it all in.
Hope that gives you a better idea of timings. Enjoy. Lars.
I walked up pulpits rock as a 6 year old when I lived in Norway. I still remember it vividly and it was 36 years ago! I remembered the crevasses in the rock and steep drop to the left near the top walking up and set about googling this memory. Your post confirms I remembered these bits correctly. Thankyou for your photos and posts, it brings back how scared I was, but how amazing the view was!
Thanks so much for your comment Jen, isn’t it amazing how we can remember things so clearly – especially when we’ve been scared of something. We’re pleased that our photos were able to confirm your memories of Pulpit Rock and totally agree about the amazing view.
You are going to find life very boring when you return!
When we finally go home we’ll travel around Australia ?? – that will keep the boredom at bay! ?
Okay I’m going to live vicariously through your beautiful photos. I did this hike at the end of April and the visibility was zero, I couldn’t see the edge of Pulpit Rock when I was standing on it haha! There was even snow on top of the mountain and that lovely lake was frozen.
However the hike is great, I can’t believe you did 2 in 1 day! It was a bit slippy near the top when I went which was scary because of the lack of barriers but I can understand they do not want to spoil the natural beauty of the place. I’ll have to go back and try again one summer.
What a shame you hiked all that way and the weather was so unkind! It would have been unnerving being slippy at the top – there were a few quite narrow bits there! Yes, I still can’t believe we did the two hikes in one day … the sun must have gotten to our heads?!
Toujours intéressant de te lire Michelle. C’est vraiment magnifique. Bravo pour les photos !
Merci beaucoup Patricia. Je suis heureux que vous ayez aimé le lire?
Wow, Norway looks absolutely incredible!!
Jessie
Your Story Matters
Thanks, Jessie, it is pretty amazing – such fantastic scenery.
Fabulous guys just love reading all about your amazing adventures …keep them coming.Have fun and take care! Certainly a wonderful world we live in. ?
Thanks so much Leesa, the world is indeed wonderful and so varied! There is so much to see and experience. So pleased you are loving our blogs, we enjoy sharing our travels and have fun writing them (and teasing each other over whose photos are best! ;)) Take care xx
Great post! I just love following all of your adventures. These photos are fabulous and I can only imagine what it is like to experience all of the amazing things you do everyday.
It’s so lovely to hear you enjoy following our adventures. Hopefully, you can get inspiration on what you’d like to experience and put it on your ‘To Do’ list ;).
Looks so so beautiful, love the photos! Norway is such a stunning country xx
Alys
Thanks Alys, We agree, Norway is so beautiful. We have been really blessed with the weather too, one of the warmest Summers in a long time apparently. Have you been to Norway?
Yes I have! I’ve been to Oslo and Ålesund 🙂
Wonderful – what was your favourite place? We hear Geraingerfjord is beautiful ( but all seem to be beautiful! ;). We are thinking of driving North before we leave here, did you enjoy Alesund?
I loved Alesund! My dad had a work thing there so I just went along with him and explored whilst he was working haha
Thanks Alys – we’ll put it on our list! x