Standing Over the Fjord: Hiking Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) and Exploring Lysefjord
A compact, practical guide to standing on Norway’s most famous cliff and exploring Lysefjord by foot, boat or air.
The first time you approach Pulpit Rock — Preikestolen in Norwegian — the world shrinks to a single edge.
Trail Wisdom
Start early (or join a sunrise hike)
Beat the crowds and get calmer weather by leaving before dawn or booking a guided sunrise tour; the top is vastly quieter in the early hours.
Wear sturdy, grippy footwear
The trail is rocky and intermittently wet — mid-height hiking boots or trail shoes with good tread will keep you stable.
Pack for sudden weather shifts
Bring a waterproof shell and insulating mid-layer even in summer; the weather can change quickly at elevation.
Respect the edge
There are no railings; keep a safe distance from cliff edges, especially with wind or wet rock, and supervise children closely.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Flørli village and the wooden stairway for a quieter fjord experience
- •Øygardstølen (Eagle’s Nest) viewpoint on Lyseveien for a different panorama
Wildlife
White-tailed sea eagle, Harbor seals in Lysefjorden
Conservation Note
Stick to marked trails and avoid trampling fragile alpine vegetation; local guides and operators emphasize 'leave no trace' principles to reduce erosion and litter.
Lysefjorden was carved by glaciers in the last Ice Age; Preikestolen’s sheer cliff is the product of glacial erosion and fracturing of the granite bedrock.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers and thawing streams, Fewer crowds than summer
Challenges: Mud and wet boardwalks, Unpredictable late snow patches
Spring brings melting snow, blooming alpine flora, and variable trail conditions—pack waterproof footwear and check local reports.
summer
Best for: Long daylight and stable weather, All trail services open
Challenges: Heavy crowds in June–August, Parking and ferry wait times
Summer offers the most stable weather and long days—arrive early or choose guided off-peak options to avoid crowds.
fall
Best for: Autumn colors and crisp air, Fewer visitors and dramatic light
Challenges: Shortening daylight and cooler temps, Some services reduce hours
Fall delivers dramatic skies and quieter trails—dress warmly and plan for earlier sunsets.
winter
Best for: Snow-covered drama and solitude, Guided winter hikes with crampons
Challenges: Icy sections and limited daylight, Requires winter gear and experience
Winter is beautiful but technical—book a guided winter hike and bring crampons, warm layers, and a headlamp.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof hardshell jacketEssential
Protects against sudden rain and wind on exposed sections of trail.
Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoesEssential
Good traction and ankle support on rocky, sometimes muddy terrain.
Lightweight daypack with 1–1.5 L waterEssential
Carry hydration, snacks, extra layer, and basic first-aid supplies.
Microspikes/crampons (winter)
Required for icy winter conditions; most guided winter tours supply or rent them.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Preikestolen?
The trail is about 3.8 km (2.4 miles) each way — roughly 7.6 km round-trip — and typically takes 2–2.5 hours up and 1.5–2 hours down.
Is the trail safe for children?
Children can do the hike if supervised closely; be mindful of unguarded cliffs and bring appropriate clothing and frequent breaks.
Do I need a guide or permit?
No permit is required. A guide is recommended in poor weather, for winter outings, or if you want local insights and logistics taken care of.
Can I see Preikestolen from the water?
Yes — cruises, RIB safaris, and kayak tours from Stavanger or Forsand offer dramatic fjord-level views of the cliff face.
When is the best time to avoid the crowds?
Early morning (sunrise) or shoulder seasons (late spring, early fall) offer far fewer people than peak summer months.
Are there toilets or facilities on the trail?
Basic facilities are available at the trailhead/parking area; there are no services on the trail or at the top, so bring what you need.
What to Pack
Sturdy hiking boots (good traction), waterproof jacket (weather protection), 1–1.5 L water and high-energy snacks (hydration and fuel), small first-aid kit and headlamp (safety and low-light conditions)
Did You Know
Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) rises 604 meters (1,981 feet) above Lysefjorden — a fact documented by Norwegian topographical surveys.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book ferries or tours in advance during summer; 2) Arrive before 8 AM to avoid parking queues; 3) Check weather and local trail updates; 4) Charge devices and bring a portable battery for photos.
Local Flavor
After the hike, head to Stavanger for fresh seafood, open-faced sandwiches (smørbrød), and local brown cheese (brunost). Stop at Byrkjedalstunet for handcrafted treats and mountain-side souvenirs on scenic tours.
Logistics Snapshot
Trailhead: Preikestolen Parking (near Forsand/Jørpeland); Distance: 7.6 km round-trip; Elevation gain: ~350–400 m; Time: 4–6 hours; No permits; Shuttle, guided hikes, and boat options available from Stavanger.
Sustainability Note
Use designated paths, carry out all trash, avoid making new fire pits, and consider booking local guides to support the regional economy and minimize environmental impact.