Welcome to one of Norway's most iconic hikes! Pulpit Rock, or Preikestolen in Norwegian, is not just spectacular but also pretty easy to get to. It's no surprise that it’s the most popular hike in the country. If you’re planning your Norway adventure, this hike is a must, and it’s even family-friendly!
What to Expect on the Pulpit Rock Hike
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4 km each way (8 km/5 miles round trip)
Time: Approximately 4 hours (2 hours each way). Experienced hikers might complete it in less time.
When we did the hike, it took just under 2 hours to climb up and 1.5 hours to come down, with plenty of photo stops along the way. The hike up and down is equally fun and challenging, but the views are totally worth it.
Elevation: Over 330 meters (1100 ft). Expect steep climbs and descents, and it can get a bit wet and muddy. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes. If you're prepared and have some hiking experience, you’ll love the beautiful scenery and amazing views at the top.
At the Top of Pulpit Rock
After about two hours of hiking, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views over the Lysefjord. It can be a bit busy, but it’s so worth it. We had a picnic and took some fantastic photos at the edge. The rock is wide and safe, but be careful and avoid sitting or jumping near the edge.
Getting to Pulpit Rock
By Public Transport:
From Stavanger: Previously, you needed a ferry to Tau and then a bus. Now, thanks to the new tunnel, you can take a direct bus from Stavanger to the trailhead. In high season, GoFjords operates on this route.
Combination Tours: You can combine the hike with a Lysefjord cruise, which we highly recommend for a full day of fun.
By Car:
Ryfast Tunnel: Drive through the world's longest sub-sea road tunnel from Stavanger to just south of Tau. Be aware of the tolls (about 150 NOK one-way) and parking fees at the trailhead (250 NOK).
How Much Time Do You Need?
Plan for a full day from Stavanger. The hike itself takes around 4 hours, and the bus journey is about an hour each way. There are limited buses, so flexibility is key. Combining the hike with a Lysefjord cruise is a great option.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to hike is from June to September when the weather is nice. This is also the busiest period, so consider starting early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
What to Wear and Pack
Clothing: Layer up! Weather can change quickly. We started with four layers and adjusted as needed.
Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes.
Gear: Hiking poles can be helpful, especially for the way down.
Essentials: Pack a sweater, rain jacket, snacks, and plenty of water. There are no facilities along the trail, but you can use the restroom and fill water bottles at the base camp before you start.
Facilities
At Preikestolen Base Camp, you’ll find a restaurant, bathrooms, and water refill stations. Make sure to use these facilities before starting your hike and carry enough supplies with you.
Enjoy your hike to Pulpit Rock! It’s a fantastic adventure with breathtaking views that you will cherish.
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