Pulpit Rock Stavanger Norway Hike - Preikestolen Guide 2025
Norway's Pulpit Rock is perched on the side of a cliff face 604 metres above the majestic fjord below. One of Norway's most famous hikes and one of our favourites during our time in the country, Pulpit Rock is a hike not to be missed.
A 2 hour hike uphill will bring you to the famous outcrop, on the way you'll observe cloud inversions, pine forests, rocky sections and rivers. To us, this hike defines everything Norway has to offer. Throughout this blog we will share the time it takes, where it starts, how fit you need to be and everything else you need to know about hiking Pulpit Rock.
If you're dreaming of visiting Norway's Pulpit Rock Hike (Preikestolen) but want to explore the country on a budget, you're in the right place as we also share how to walk Pulpit Rock for free. Here's an overview of the Pulpit Rock hike time, difficulty and elevation:
Contents
Where Is Pulpit Rock?
Pulpit Rock is situated in the southwestern part of Norway, near the town of Stavanger. The trailhead is easily accessible and offers a gateway to one of the most famous hiking destinations in the world.
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How To Get To Pulpit Rock?
Travellers can reach Stavanger by air, train, or bus, with the trailhead accessible by a scenic ferry ride or the cheaper GoFjords bus ride through the tunnel between Stavanger and Tau. If you have a motorhome or car you can drive to the Pulpit Rock car park.
If you are staying in Stavanger and book onto a guided tour you will be picked up from your hotel.
Pulpit Rock Car Park
How much is the parking at Pulpit Rock? The car park costs NOK 250 (£18.70), and you pay via card when exiting. This may not seem like a lot but as you travel up Norway these hidden costs add up fast. Therefore, we are here to tell you how to walk Pulpit Rock for Free! Skip To How To Park For Free.
Do I Need A Guide For Pulpit Rock?
You can walk Pulpit Rock without a guide, and that’s what we did. If you hike in the winter months it’s advised you go with a guide and of course if you want a guide for your safety you can always go on an organised tour.
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Pulpit Rock Hike Difficulty, Length, and Time
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 3-5 hours
Length: 398m elevation
Height: 604m above fjord level
Pulpit Rock Hike Description
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-timer, Pulpit Rock is a manageable hike if you have a reasonable level of fitness. The ground can be rocky and uneven and there are steep sections throughout, meaning we suggest you have a good pair of hiking boots.
The duration of the hike depends on individual fitness levels, but on average, it takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to complete the 8km round trip.
The hike starts through a forested area with gurgling streams and sturdy board walks. As you climb it changes into rock underfoot and for us there was a long stretch where we were completely surrounded by clouds. Throughout the trek you need to follow the red Ts to stay on the right path. Near the end there are a few ladders and narrow sections where you need to be careful.
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As you come round the corner at the summit you will be greeted with a view of the famous Pulpit Rock. We arrived at 8am and only a handful of people were around. We recommend spending some time at the top taking in the vast surrounding, the platform is wide and safe as long as you don’t go too near the edge. Don’t forget to pack warm layers as it gets cold up on the rock.
Tip: To get the best photo you want to be standing back from the rock overlooking it sideways on a small ledge, the Viewpoint is before you reach the platform of Pulpit Rock. Lift your camera as high as possible and snap!
When Is The Best Time to Hike Pulpit Rock?
By far the most popular time to hike Pulpit Rock is during the summer season: June, July and August. The problem with this is that it gets super busy; up to 5,000 people a day can visit the rock and queue for the famous photo.
We visited Norway in the shoulder season and hiked Pulpit Rock at the end of September which I would definitely recommend, October and November are also still accessible as long as there is no snowfall. We've been told it can be treacherous in the harsh winter months but you can get a winter guided hike here!
Pulpit Rock Facts
Formed 10,000 years ago in the ice age
The Sherpas from Nepal were flown in to help improve the hiking trail
Translated Preikestolen means Preacher’s chair
Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock) towers 604 metres above the Lysefjord
How To Walk Pulpit Rock For Free
There is no official parking that is free but with this blog and some extra walking it can be done.
First things first our route involves extra walking, 12km extra to be precise. However, we totally think it's worth it and if you're on a tight budget this is a great way of experiencing Norway for Free.
To park for free there is a small layby off the main road where you can fit around 3 campervans Location 📌
We parked and spent the night here before the hike so we could leave early and beat the crowds. We left at 5am and there were a handful of people at the top by 8am. It's worth noting the official car park opens at 6am.
After about an hour on the side of the road you will see a sign for Preikestolen. Here you will be glad that you miss the steep climb up from the carpark, join the trail and follow the sign. The trail takes around 4-5 hours then you'll have to walk back to your car/motorhome but remember this time it will all be downhill!
Overall for us this was a great way to save some money. We didn't mind the extra walk, especially on the way down. It actually gave us time to reflect on the mind blowing sunrise we had just seen over Pulpit Rock. I would recommend this route to anyone doing Norway on a budget and who has a good level of fitness.
FAQs
What Is Pulpit Rock?
Pulpit Rock, also known as Preikestolen, is a steep cliff that rises above the Lysefjord in Norway. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
How High Is Pulpit Rock Norway?
How To Get From Stavanger To Pulpit Rock?
Has Anyone Fallen Off Pulpit Rock? Is Pulpit Rock Safe?
How Hard Is The Pulpit Rock Hike?
How Long Does It Take To Hike Pulpit Rock?
How was Pulpit Rock formed?
What To Wear and Pack For Pulpit Rock
Good Sturdy Walking Boots
Raincoat
Warm layers
Hat, buff, gloves
Snacks
Go Pro or Camera
Hiking Poles if needed
Note: leave your drone behind, you’re not allowed to fly it here anyway
Where To Stay Before Pulpit Rock
Pulpit Rock vs Trolltunga - Norway Hikes
These two are undoubtedly Norway's most popular hikes and overall we think you should see both, however here are some key comparison points: Trolltunga is a much harder hike at nearly double the length, you need a good level of fitness and hiking ability.
The views are outstanding for both hikes, they are breathtakingly beautiful and if you can you should visit both sites.
Each hike requires paid parking; however Pulpit Rock is cheaper.
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With over 100 hand picked spots around the South of Norway, this map is jam packed with adventure. Claim your map here!
Norway, the land of giants and trolls, meandering roads, epic fjords and much more is a prime destination for a road trip, holiday or cruise. After spending 2 months exploring this Nordic country, we share our top picks from our time on our Scandinavian road trip.
Top Hike: Pulpit Rock
An outcrop extends over a deep fjord, as you stand on the edge of Preikestolen you’re above the clouds and high on life. A 3 hour trek that is worth every minute.
Epic Viewpoint: Rampestreken
Rampestreken is a 20m extended platform looking out over mountains and fjords, one section is even mesh so you can see the drop right below you. You can hike or catch a cable car here.
Top Waterfall: Trollkirka or Låtefossen
It was too hard to choose just one, so I’ve gone for two. Trollkirka is a waterfall inside a marble cave which involves hiking to a Trolls Church, and Låtefossen which is right on the road but just as spectacular.
Off The Beaten Track: Sleep in a Cabin In The Woods
Norway is a country of adventure, and what better way to experience this than sleeping in a traditional hiking or hunting cabin.
Other Blogs On Norway
Essential Travel Items You Need For Norway
 | Lifestraw - Filtered Water Bottle Allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind, plus you’re helping the environment! |
 | Sturdy Hiking Poles Norway is a hiker's destination and with challenging hikes such as Pulpit Rock, we were glad to have our poles. We would also recommend reliable Hiking Boots. |
 | Rechargeable Head Torch If you’re visiting in the shoulder seasons or winter a head torch is a must. The days are short and if you’re camping this is essential. |
 | Universal Travel Adaptor With Multiple USBs Life while travelling will never be the same again! Charge multiple devices all at once in any country... game changer. |
Top Recommended Norway Activities & Excursions
Top Tips For Travelling Norway
If you’re visiting Norway here are our top travel tips:
Book flights in advance - they can become expensive if you leave it last minute. Also don't forget Apple Airtags to track your luggage
Norway is vast, take it slow - don't feel the need to see everything if you only have a short time. Instead spend the time you have discovering the beauty and culture of the area you’re in… plus then you have an excuse to come back.
Hire a car or motorhome - in our opinion this is the best way to really see Norway. You get to drive down hairpin roads such as Trollstigen and explore the lesser known nooks of the country.
Be prepared for changing weather - it can be sunny one minute and snowing the next so pack for a range of temperatures and remember “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate clothing.”
Final Thoughts On Pulpit Rock Hike, Norway
This iconic hike sums up what Norway has to offer, vast fjords, insane rock formations and a love for hiking. This should be on everyone’s bucket list in our opinion, the hike is moderate meaning it’s accessible for a large range of people but that also means it’s extremely busy! Head early and beat the crowds, this is a hike you do not want to miss!
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