Jørpeland
Preikestolen (the Pulpit Rock) rises 604 metres above the Lysefjord in Ryfylke, and is one of Norway's biggest attractions. The view at the top is stunning.
Preikestolen car park is approximately a 10-minute drive from Jørpeland and a 40-minute drive from Stavanger. Preikestolen Basecamp rents out clothing and equipment, has a café and restaurant and offers several accommodation options.
How long is the hike to Preikestolen?
The hike to Preikestolen (604 masl) is 4 kilometres one way and has a total elevation gain of 500 metres. It's common to estimate around 2 hours each way.
The hike is so long and demanding that it gives experienced hikers a sense of mastery, while the path is so well-prepared that most people can reach the top.
Tour description
The hike to Preikestolen starts from the fee-based car park, with a service building with toilets, next to Preikestolen Basecamp. The first 500 metres take you up a winding gravel road with an elevation gain of over 80 metres. It levels out a bit before the trail continues gradually upward on the mountain. It is well-prepared with bridges over the wettest sections and Sherpa steps on the steepest and most demanding parts. This makes the hike easier, while also preserving the environment.
There are many nice spots along the trail to take a break. Tjødnane, about 1 kilometre from Preikestolen, is a great place to combine your meal break with a refreshing dip in the small lake. During the hike, you'll pass through birch forests and walk on smooth rocks in a gently rolling terrain. When you catch a glimpse of the Lysefjord, you'll know you're getting closer. As you walk alongside the famous fjord, Preikestolen suddenly comes into view with its characteristic shape. Upon reaching the flat plateau, which is only 25 x 25 metres in size, you can enjoy the fantastic view of the Lysefjord.
Preikestolen rises 604 metres above the Lysefjord. The mountain plateau has been named one of the world's most spectacular viewing points by both CNN Go and Lonely Planet. After taking the obligatory photos and having a well-deserved break, the hike back follows the same route.
When is the season for Preikestolen?
You can hike to Preikestolen all year round, but the peak season is from April to October. To avoid crowds during the summer, it's wise to take advantage of the long days by starting the hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon, but never so late that you won't be back before dark. Visiting Preikestolen during the off-season is becoming increasingly popular. Witnessing the autumn sunrise and embarking on a winter trek with crampons on a snow-covered and icy trail are unique hiking experiences you will never forget.
How do you get to Preikestolen?
Main season (April - October)
By bus and taxi in the main season
You can take a regular bus to Jørpeland. Check the Kolumbus journey planner for timetables. From Jørpeland, take a taxi to Preikestolen car park.
By car to Preikestolen car park (fee) main season
From Stavanger, drive through the Ryfast undersea tunnel to Solbakk and follow the signs to Preikestolen.
On a guided tour in the main season
All year round, you can go on a guided hike to Preikestolen. This is suitable for those who are not so used to hiking themselves. You'll get quality guides who organise everything for you, all you have to do is walk. Find guided tours in the mountains here.
Sightseeing with a fjord cruise in the main season
It's also possible to include both a fjord cruise and hiking. Try a cruise and hike to Preikestolen in the summer.
If you just want to experience Preikestolen from the Lysefjord, Ryfylke Adventure offers boat trips all year round.
Winter and out of season (October - April)
On a guided tour out of season
In winter, it is recommended to take the tour with a guide, both for safety reasons, but also because of the storytelling and unique insights from the nature guides. Find guided tours in the mountains here.
Sightseeing with a fjord cruise out of season
It's also possible to include both a fjord cruise and hiking. Try the tour Cruise and hike to Preikestolen, read about the tour in winter here.
If you just want to experience Preikestolen from the Lysefjord, Ryfylke Adventure offers boat trips all year round.
By car to Preikestolen car park out of season
From Stavanger, drive through the Ryfast undersea tunnel to Solbakk and follow the signs to Preikestolen car park.
By bus and taxi out of season
You can take a regular bus to Jørpeland. Check the Kolumbus journey planner for timetables. From Jørpeland, take a taxi to Preikestolen car park.
Important info before the hike
Sturdy hiking boots
Warm clothing - there's often a chilly breeze at the top, even in summer
Food and water - you can't refill the water bottle along the trail
At Preikestolen 365, you can get updated information about the weather, trail conditions, and parking
Click here to view the webcam from Preikestolen Basecamp
Useful links
Stay safe on your mountain hike
Packing list for mountain hikes – and everything else you need to know to go hiking in Fjord Norway
Read more about responsible travel in Fjord Norway
Other hikes
The Bolder-Preikestolen Basecamp
Lysefjorden Rundt, which is one of Norway's most spectacular long-distance hikes, is recommended by the Norwegian Trekking Association.
National scenic hike
Preikestolen is labelled as a National scenic hike. National scenic hikes are a selection of trails and hiking destinations that, through long-term and integrated planning, can withstand very high visitor numbers without impairing the quality of nature, culture and experiences, and where the high visitor numbers will also contribute to local value creation.
Source: Reisemål Ryfylke