Preikestolen
Updated: Sep 9
Conquering Pulpit Rock
Day Hike - 8 km - Iconic Fjord Views
The Verdict & Trail Notes
Scaling Pulpit Rock is a rite of passage when exploring southwestern Norway. While it's a heavily trafficked day hike, the sheer scale of standing on a flat plateau 604 meters straight above the Lysefjord is something no photograph can fully prepare you for. Because this is the most popular hike in the area, aim to arrive at the trailhead no later than 09:30 AM. If you can beat the fleet of tour buses, it remains a relatively peaceful, quiet trek before the mid-day crowds arrive.
The Trail Breakdown
The route kicks off immediately with a steep climb up massive stone staircases laid down by Nepalese Sherpas. This initial stretch is a bit of a slog, but push through—you'll soon be rewarded with great views. After that first major climb, the trail levels out across wooden boardwalks over marshy terrain before hitting a second set of stone stairs. This is your last steep push. From here, the landscape cracks open as you traverse gently undulating granite plateaus and cliffside walkways.
The Drone & Scouting Sweet Spot
After tracking about 3.4 km, venture off the main trail onto the rocky outcrop to your left. It offers stunning, unobstructed views out toward the head of the Lysefjord. If you're looking to capture high-quality drone footage, this is the place to do it. Drones are strictly banned at Pulpit Rock itself, making this outcrop your best window to safely fly and capture the scale of the fjord.
Once you've had your fill of the views and grabbed a quick snack to keep your energy up, jump back on the trail. You're only 1 km from the finish line!
The Final Push to the Rock
The final stretch takes you along narrow ridges carved into the rock face looking directly out over the water—definitely a moment to watch your step if you're uneasy with heights. Just before you round the corner to the main plateau, look for a small viewpoint jutting out to the side. This is where you grab that iconic, sweeping shot of the rock contrasting against the deep blue fjord. If you're hiking with a partner or group, leave someone here with the camera while you walk out onto the plateau to get an incredible sense-of-scale photo.
Once you're out on the rock, sit down and take it all in. Just remember to layer up—the winds funneling off the fjord can be bitterly cold. When you're ready, simply retrace your steps back down to the valley. The descent is a bonus in itself, offering spectacular views stretching out over Stavanger and the sea.
Bonus Recovery Trip: Floating Saunas
If you have the time, book one of the floating saunas at the visitor center next to the primary car park. Located just a short 5-minute walk down to the water, there is absolutely no better way to ease aching muscles after a rugged mountain trek than a traditional Scandinavian wood-fired sauna followed by a bracing plunge into the freezing lake.
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