About This Hike
Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, is a flat 25-by-25-metre cliff 604 metres above Lysefjorden. The clearly marked return trail begins at Preikestolen Parking and covers 8 kilometres with 500 metres of total ascent, normally taking about four hours. It is a mountain hike rather than a roadside viewpoint: the route repeatedly climbs and descends through forest, marsh crossings, rough rock and Sherpa-built stone stairs. Tjødnane, roughly one kilometre before the plateau, is a useful place for a planned break. There is no water, food or toilet after leaving the parking facilities, so carry what you need for the complete return. The plateau has no railings, and nobody needs to approach the edge to experience the fjord view. In the busy June–August period, a weekday, early start or later afternoon departure can reduce crowd pressure, provided enough daylight remains. Parking operates year-round, but winter hiking is a separate undertaking requiring traction, suitable clothing and confidence on snow or ice. Drones, fires during the seasonal ban, new rock piles and camping on the plateau are prohibited; vehicle sleeping is also prohibited at Preikestolen Parking.
Highlights
- ✓ A 25-by-25 m plateau 604 m above Lysefjorden
- ✓ An 8 km marked route through forest, marsh, rock and stone stairs
- ✓ Tjødnane rest area roughly 1 km before the viewpoint
- ✓ Year-round parking with a distinctly more serious winter hike
Getting There
Use Preikestolen Parking beside Preikestolen Basecamp; it has toilets and two parking areas. During the main season, direct buses run between Stavanger and Preikestolen Parking; public transport is limited in winter, so check current options before travelling.
Before You Go
The 8 km figure is a return walk from Preikestolen Parking, not a short stop from the road. Use the basecamp facilities before starting, choose a departure time that leaves a generous daylight margin, and treat the cliff edge as optional: the fjord view begins well before anyone needs to stand near it.
Information checked: September 2026, against Preikestolen 365 and Visit Norway route guidance
⚠️ Safety Notes
- No barriers at the cliff edge, so keep well back, especially in crowds or wind.
- The trail is steep and undulating, with 500 metres of total climbing; allow enough time to return before dark.
- Postpone in severe weather. Conditions can change quickly, and the summit can be colder, windier and less clear than the trailhead.
- The summit can be colder and windier than the trailhead; carry warm, windproof layers.
- From November to April, snow and ice may require traction devices, route-finding experience and careful planning. Use a guide if unfamiliar with winter conditions.
- There are no toilets, food or water along the trail. Use the car-park facilities before starting and carry enough water and food.
- Keep the marked route, carry all rubbish back and do not camp on the Preikestolen plateau.