Preikestolen — Attraction in Strand

How to get to the top with next to no other tourists?! Well, wait for a cloudy day and hike up late in the afternoon. This is what we did. We left at 17:30. A bit of a risk, however we were able to climb in about 70 mins with very few people also going up (less than 25 people). We passed about 50ish people who were going down the moutain. Once at the top we waited about 45 mins and had a break in the clouds and only had to share the views with a handful of people. It was surreal.

The path was beautiful in its own right unlike a lot of other mountain hikes that are boring and just straight uphill. There is a great mixture of terrain. This is quite an easy hike I would say for people who are regular walkers. The path is rocks, gravel and wooden platforms. A few short steep sections with stone stairs, but not very strenuous and mixed with downward sections.

As all say, taking a mixture of layers and wet weather gear is a must. Take food and water too. The perfect picnic place at the top.

One of my favorite hikes!!! Up and down in under 3 hours with a 45 min break at the top with a leisurely pace taking photos and video.

Parking on site at the mountain is 200kr for a car, Motorhome or van, I think 150 for a motorbike. Only a short walk to the start and access to toilets, water and rental gear. Can pay on exit with card or cash. As far as we could tell the gates are active any time of the day.

We stayed at the campground down the road which allow you to check in late and pay in the morning. Reasonable prices for Norway - 280 for two people, campervan and no electricity - free showers and WiFi. A nice restaurant/shop where you can charge devices and chill out of...

Breath taking views on a breath taking (literally) hike.

First: The reason why everyone does this! The view from the pulpit rock is extraordinary over the fjord. It's majestic for miles, gorgeous scenery. It just all feels serene, especially being so high up and the sheer drop off. You can spend quite a bit of time lounging taking it all in.

Second: The hiking trail itself. It's 4km one way (8km round-trip). The hike is moderate with a 450m elevation gain. It'll take an average fit person 1.5 to 2 hours to get up on a good day. The sherpas have been working hard to make the hike easier over the years, carving out rocks (you can see quite a bit of tool marks,) but no less still a moderate hike.

Third: Preparation. 250 Nok parking fee. There are no facilities on the hike, besides at base camp. Pack water, a snack, or a meal if you want to stay at the summit for longer. Wear proper footwear... if it's rained recently, it's gonna be slick. Tennis shoes are only going to cut it when it's nice out, and it's been nice out the last few days. Use hiking shoes. At the summit, it's dangerous, there are warnings, it's a sheer cliff face. Don't be stupid and hang off the side, people get seriously injured or die. You'll ruin it for everyone if you're stupid.

Fourth: Timing is everything. Go early or way later to avoid crowds. I mean huge crowds. 9am still had 25 people minimum up at the pulpit. There are going to be lots of people on the trail.

Overall, enjoy a 3-4 hour long hike, a scenic view at the top, and all the glorious nature you...

Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) hosts spectacular views of Lysefjord and the surrounding scenery. I recommend taking photos ASAP, then soak in the scenery without your phone for the remainder of your time up there. I spent nearly two hours on Pulpit Rock whilst enjoying a packed lunch, the sun and views. If you go early, you can avoid the crowds that start to arrive in the early to mid-afternoon. The trail back can become pretty crowded in the afternoon, so use it as an opportunity to go slow and enjoy the scenery - there’s more to look at than just Pulpit Rock and Lysefjord along the trail!

Recommendation: Hike the trail in your own time and don’t be scared to step aside for faster walkers behind you, rather than rushing. There will be Norwegians who can run the trail - don’t be disheartened if you have to move aside for them, it’s pretty impressive to watch! Unlike what some people say, if you’re not an avid hiker, you’re going to struggle with this trail as walking on uneven rocks/boulders at steep elevations is challenging. The majority of the trail consists of boulders/rocks, so beware - it can get slippery from rain, mud, and ice. I’d recommend hiking boots, walking poles, and going slow!

Also, if booking a coach from Stavanger, I recommend using the Pulpit Rock company, as they have later return coach times than other companies, which gives you longer to hike and...