At 1,084 metres above sea level, Kjerag is the highest peak in the Lysefjord and home to the world-famous boulder Kjeragbolten! The mountain plateau is also very popular among base jumpers and mountain climbers.
Season
Kjerag is a seasonal hiking destination. Before the county road between Sirdal and Lysebotn opens around the middle of May, Kjerag is considered to be accessible only to guests with special equipment and accompanied by a tour guide. The snow is deep and skis or snowshoes are required. The road closes for the season in October/November due to snow conditions.
6–10 hour hike
The hike to Kjerag is around 11 kilometres long and the round trip takes 6 to 10 hours. You need to be in good physical shape before heading out on this mountain hike, which has an elevation gain of 800 metres. In some places, you have to pull yourself up and slide down with the help of wires, so it is a demanding hike even for experienced hikers. The starting point is at the parking lot at Øygardstøl. Ask the staff in the parking lot about the current conditions – they will give you all the information you need. Be especially wary if it's raining, as the trail can get slippery.
Guided hikes
If you are inexperienced or unsure about doing the trip, we recommend that you join a guided hike. A good guide can turn a bad day into a fantastic experience.
Safety measures
Rescue operations are triggered by hikers every year. To make sure you won’t cause one of them, prepare yourself properly for the hike and read up on mountain safety before you go.
Weather conditions in the mountains
Even if sunshine and fair weather are predicted, conditions can change quickly. Always check the forecast before you start your trip, and make sure that you are prepared for changing weather. Do not hike if the forecast predicts strong winds, heavy rain, or fog. Get the latest weather forecast on yr.no.
Proper hiking equipment
Pack a 30-litre backpack to be sure that you have enough room for everything you need in the Norwegian mountains. A map and compass, first-aid equipment, a fully charged mobile phone, and a headlamp are just some of the things we recommend you keep in your backpack. Scroll down the page for a complete packing list video.
Warm, suitable clothing
Always bring suitable footwear. Hiking boots are recommended. The hike to Kjerag goes across rough terrain, and you will need ample foot and ankle support. Occasional strong gusts can occur at Kjerag, so please use wind and waterproof outerwear. An extra set of clothes including a cap, a scarf, and gloves or mittens belong in your backpack.
Food and drink
Bring enough food and drink when you set out on a trip. It is important to have enough refills to make sure your energy reserves last all the way back down.
Toilets
There are no toilets along the trails, so use the car park facilities before you start your hike. If you have to go along the way, keep downhill from the trails and well away from streams and lakes. Bring your rubbish back to the bins at the car parks.
How to get there
You can take the car ferry from Stavanger to Lysebotn and continue from there to Øygardsstøl by car or taxi. You can also drive towards Lysebotn via Sirdalen.
In the summer, there is bus service to Kjerag/Øygardsstøl from Stavanger. The bus departs early in the morning and returns to Stavanger in the afternoon. Explore more alternatives for getting to Kjerag and around.
Please respect that drone flying is not permitted in the area.
Read more about flying drones in Norway and see Kjerag tourist information on Facebook for the latest updates.
Get ready
Learn the top mistakes tourists make, and check out what to pack for summer hiking.
Top mistakes tourists make
Summer hiking packing list
Other hiking routes in the area
There are many other hikes around Kjerag and in the nearby areas, including easier options. Check out the hiking alternatives in the area.
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