Guided Hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) — Stavanger Day Hike to Lysefjord Viewpoint
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours (hiking only); full tour up to 9 hours including transport
Fitness Level
Require a reasonable level of cardiovascular fitness and comfort on uneven terrain; frequent short rests typical of the route.
Overview
A classic Norwegian day-hike: a 8 km round-trip climb to a 604 m granite plateau with wide views over Lysefjord. This guided departure from Stavanger handles transport and pacing so you can focus on the ascent and the unforgettable view.
Guided Hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) — Stavanger Day Hike to Lysefjord Viewpoint
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The trail begins with the patient scrape of rubber on wet stone and the soft murmur of a bus unloading at the trailhead. You walk away from the concrete and into a landscape that still carries the handprints of the Ice Age: stunted birch, blued moss, and a ribbon of trail that climbs in a steady, honest way. After an hour the trees thin, the wind sharpens, and the fjord announces itself—first as a ribbon of ultramarine, then as the full, ribboning throat of Lysefjord far below.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early to beat the crowds
The trail fills quickly between 10:00–15:00; an early pickup from Stavanger gives you cleaner light and quieter time on the plateau.
Wear grippy boots
Sections of exposed bedrock become slippery when wet—sturdy hiking boots with good tread are essential.
Bring windproof and waterproof layers
Weather changes fast above tree line; carry a light hardshell even on sunny mornings.
Respect the edge and check conditions
There are no guardrails on the plateau—stay back from the overhang in high winds or if the rock is wet.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed sea eagles occasionally soar above Lysefjord
- Mountain hares and red foxes in the scrubby highland areas
History
The fjord-and-cliff landscape was sculpted by glaciers during the last Ice Age; local communities have used the area for centuries for grazing and travel between farms.
Conservation
The site is heavily visited; guides emphasize staying on trail and packing out all waste to reduce erosion and protect alpine vegetation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Stavanger
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hardshell jacket
Shields you from sudden rain and keeps wind off the exposed plateau.
spring specific
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Provides traction on wet rock and stability on uneven trail sections.
Insulated midlayer
Keeps you warm during windy waits on the summit or ferry rides back.
fall specific
Trekking poles
Helpful for balance on stony climbs and for descent—especially in slick conditions.
winter specific