Pulpit Rock — Attraction in Strand

Preikestolen or Prekestolen (English: "The Pulpit Rock", "Pulpit" or "Preacher’s Chair") is a tourist attraction in the municipality of Forsand in Rogaland county, Norway. Preikestolen is a steep cliff which rises 604 metres (1,982 ft) above the Lysefjorden. Atop the cliff, there is an almost flat top of approximately 25 by 25 metres (82 ft × 82 ft). Preikestolen is located near the Western part of the fjord, and on its North side.

Tourism at the site has been increasing in the early 21st century, with between 150,000 and 200,000 visitors in 2012,[1] making it one of the most visited natural tourist attractions in Norway. BASE jumpers often leap from the cliff. Due to its increased popularity, there is currently[when?] a project under way to improve the most used path to the site - a 3.8-kilometre (2.4 mi) long hike.

Preikestolen is located in the southern part of the Ryfylke district in Rogaland county in Western Norway. The city of Stavanger, the fourth largest in Norway, with a number of direct flights between European cities, is located 25 kilometres (16 mi) from the site, and the parking facility for Preikestolen is located about one hour from Stavanger by ferry and car.

Access to Preikestolen from Stavanger is via the Norwegian National Road 13 (Rv13) and the ferry from Tau. From the south, access is by the Rv13 through Sandnes via the ferry from Lauvvika to Oanes. The road is usually open and the ferries running year-round. However, due to snow, it is not always possible to do the hike to the top in the winter.

The road to the site ends in the municipality of Strand, just south of the town of Jørpeland at a parking facility at the Preikestolen Fjellstue, with a trail extending from the parking facility to the site. A round-trip hike to Preikestolen from the closest car park takes about 3–4 hours for someone of average fitness.

The walk to Preikestolen is very steep in places. The path starts at the Preikestolhytta, at an elevation of approximately 270 metres (890 ft) above sea level, and climbs to 604 metres (1,982 ft). The walk takes 2–3 hours depending on traffic along the trail, experience, and fitness level. Even though the elevation differential is only 334 metres (1,096 ft) and the walk is not particularly long, about 3.8 kilometres (2.4 mi) each way, the total elevation gain and loss over the course of the hike is more than one might initially expect, as the path climbs and descends various ridges. The walk is more difficult in winter and spring when there is snow and ice.

Alternative access is available via a path from Bratteli - a stop for the tourist ferry from Lauvvik [nl] to Lysebotn that passes beneath the Pulpit Rock. This walk is more demanding, and takes 4-5 hours each way.

An alternative is to sail through the Lysefjorden, with trips running year-round. Outside of summer, the weather may be wet and cold, and butts may obstruct views of the cliff. The ship stops at several small docks on the way in and out, including a layover at the end of the Lysefjorden at the village of Lysebotn.

The cliff overlooks the valleys of the Ryfylke region. The mountains surrounding the cliff reach heights of up to 843 metres (2,766 ft). Some of the hilltops have plains which are...

Pulpit Rock, or Preikestolen, is one of Norway's most iconic natural landmarks, attracting over 300,000 visitors annually. This flat-topped cliff rises 604 meters above Lysefjord, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Hiking Overview

Trail Length: Approximately 8 km (5 miles) round trip.

Duration: Typically 4–5 hours, including time at the summit.

Difficulty: Moderate; the path includes steep sections, rocky terrain, and some man-made steps.

Elevation Gain: Around 330 meters from the trailhead at Preikestolen Fjellstue.

Trailhead: Starts at Preikestolen Fjellstue, accessible by car or bus from Stavanger.

Getting There

From Stavanger: Drive or take a bus to the trailhead. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Parking: Available at Preikestolen Fjellstue; a parking fee applies.

Guided Tours: Offered from Stavanger, providing transportation and guidance.

Trail Highlights

Varied Terrain: The hike traverses forests, swamps, and rocky paths.

Sherpa Steps: Sections of the trail were improved by Nepalese Sherpas, featuring stone steps and bridges.

Summit Plateau: The flat summit offers ample space for photos and relaxation.

Safety: While the trail is well-maintained, there are no guardrails at the cliff's edge. Visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially when wet or foggy.

Best Time to Visit

Season: Late April to October.

Weather: Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions; bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear.

Crowds: To avoid peak crowds, consider hiking early in the morning or during weekdays.

Safety Tips

Proper Footwear: Wear hiking boots with good grip.

Weather Awareness: Check forecasts before your hike.

Stay on Trail: Avoid venturing off marked paths.

Respect Nature: Do not disturb wildlife or vegetation.

Nearby Attractions

Lysefjord Cruises: Experience the fjord from the water.

Kjeragbolten: A boulder wedged between cliffs, popular for photos.

Trolltunga: A challenging hike leading to a rock formation jutting out...

I'm not a hiker type of a guy, never done such stupid thing for over 30 years. I also know that I don't deserve anything of Norway's natural beauty if I don't make this iconic clime. So last year decided to driving by. While stopping for a quick hamburger in the nearby town, the waiter explained a little bit of Preikestolen and the hike. Decision was made quickly..., I drove over, parking was easy and because of broken gate also free. Grabbed my phone, my house keys, documents, pack of cigarettes and a can of Coca-cola for the hike. So, there I went, in sweat pants and hoodie and running shoes. From the lower parking lot it's about 5 km "walk". Started out uncomfortable but kept telling myself that "I can do this!". If I felt tired I stopped to grab some air. Meanwhile I realized that with my little brakes and stops I can still keep the pace with others, the honeymooners from South Korea, Rex the German shepherd from France and the younger 150 kg heavy set German guy, even with the old American couple from Florida. I concentrated for my careful steps, for the steep upward stone steps and the visible range ahead of me. In about 2 hours I and we all made the clime, continuously admiring the nature around and looking for the remaining distance marker posts to target. So I made it to the top, took some pictures, drank my can of Coke and smoked 2 cigarettes. I'm glad that I was up there, seen it and done it. Was able to make it at the age of well over 50, without any previous training. After remaining speechless from the excitement and the beauty of nature on Pulpit Rock, time came to say Goodbye. Weather was nice, late in the June afternoon, came back down the same way slowly and carefully. Although it is elementary and a must see for all Norway fans, it is a tough hike. Loved every step of it, makes me glad and happy for the...