Hiking to Pulpit Rock, one of Norway’s most iconic natural wonders, is an exhilarating adventure that draws visitors from around the world. With a guided tour, adventurers can explore this dramatic landscape safely while enjoying breathtaking views of the Lysefjorden. The moderately challenging hike rewards trekkers with the opportunity to stand atop the famous cliff, capturing Instagram-worthy photos. While the descent can be strenuous, the sense of accomplishment makes the effort worthwhile. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature enthusiast, this guided tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more of Norway’s captivating wilderness.
Key Points
- A guided hike to the famous Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) in Norway’s Lysefjorden, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the deep-blue fjord and surrounding rugged landscapes.
- The tour is led by a local guide, ensuring safety and accessibility for a moderately challenging hike through a beautiful, rugged landscape.
- The hike requires a good level of fitness, with an ascent of 2,000 feet over 2.4 miles, and encountering various terrain such as rocky paths and wooden boardwalks.
- At the top of Pulpit Rock, visitors can enjoy unobstructed views of the Lysefjorden and capture memorable photos, while soaking in the tranquility.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a professional local guide, with flexibility to operate in various weather conditions with proper attire.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
This guided hike takes travelers to the famous Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), a towering cliff-plateau overlooking Norway’s Lysefjorden.
The small group tour, led by a local guide, ensures safety and accessibility throughout the moderately challenging hike through the rugged, beautiful landscape.
After reaching the top, hikers will have time to take photos, relax, and soak in the stunning views over the fjord before heading back down.
The tour starts and ends in Stavanger, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a professional local guide.
With 265 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour operates in all weather conditions, with appropriate clothing advised.
Inclusions
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transport by air-conditioned minivan and a professional local guide. This ensures convenience and accessibility for travelers throughout the experience.
The local guide’s expertise helps ensure the hike is safe and enjoyable, guiding participants through the rugged, beautiful landscape to the famous Pulpit Rock.
With these inclusions, the tour takes care of the logistics, allowing guests to focus on the stunning natural surroundings and the breathtaking views over the Lysefjorden fjord from the iconic cliff-plateau.
These thoughtful inclusions make for a seamless and memorable guided hike to one of Norway’s most renowned natural wonders.
Moderately Challenging Hike
Hiking to the famous Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) is a moderately challenging experience, traversing a rugged, beautiful landscape before reaching the towering cliff-plateau overlooking the Lysefjorden fjord. The hike requires a good level of fitness, as the trail ascends 2,000 feet over 2.4 miles. However, the stunning vistas make the effort worthwhile. Along the way, hikers will encounter a range of terrain, from rocky paths to wooden boardwalks. Appropriate footwear and clothing are essential for this journey, as the weather can be unpredictable.
| Trail Difficulty | Elevation Gain | Distance | Duration | Fitness Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moderate | 2,000 ft | 2.4 mi | 4-6 hrs | Good |
Stunning Views Atop Pulpit Rock
Reaching the top of Pulpit Rock, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Lysefjorden fjord and the surrounding rugged landscapes. Stretched out before them, the fjord’s deep-blue waters reflect the towering cliffs and lush, forested slopes, creating a picturesque scene.
From the cliff’s edge, one can gaze out across the serene expanse, taking in the beauty of Norway’s stunning natural wonders.
The top of Pulpit Rock offers:
- Unobstructed views of the Lysefjorden
- A sense of awe at the towering, sheer cliffs
- Opportunities to capture memorable photos
- A chance to simply sit and soak in the tranquility
This is a truly remarkable experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.
Hike Back Down
After savoring the breathtaking views from atop Pulpit Rock, hikers must then make their descent down the same trail.
The trek back down can be just as demanding as the ascent, requiring hikers to carefully navigate the uneven terrain and steep sections. Proper footwear and caution are essential to safely return from this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
With the guide’s expertise, the group will move steadily and securely, taking breaks as needed. Hikers should be prepared for a moderate but exhilarating hike back down, reveling in the stunning vistas along the way.
Review Highlights
Numerous travelers rave about the exceptional quality of the guided Pulpit Rock hike, with a Badge of Excellence awarded to the tour.
Safety and accessibility ensured by the small group size and local guide.
Stunning views over the Lysefjorden from the towering Pulpit Rock plateau.
Moderate difficulty hike through a rugged, beautiful landscape.
Flexibility to operate in all weather conditions with proper attire.
With over 265 positive reviews, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore Norway’s famous natural wonder. Travelers can rest assured that their experience will be safe, accessible, and tailored to the group’s needs.
Weather Considerations
Although this guided hike to Pulpit Rock operates in all weather conditions, the tour provider advises travelers to wear appropriate clothing. The weather on the Lysefjorden can be unpredictable, with wind, rain, and even snow possible throughout the year. To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, the following attire is recommended:
| Weather Condition | Recommended Clothing |
|---|---|
| Sunny | Lightweight layers, sun protection |
| Rainy | Waterproof jacket and pants, sturdy boots |
| Cold | Warm jacket, hat, gloves, base layers |
Cancellation Policy
The tour operator offers a cancellation policy that provides flexibility for travelers. Guests can receive a full refund if they cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled hike, but no refund is available for cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance.
Plus, the tour may be cancelled by the provider due to poor weather conditions or if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met.
The key points of the cancellation policy are:
- Full refund for cancellations 24+ hours in advance
- No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours
- Tour may be cancelled due to poor weather
- Tour may be cancelled if minimum traveler requirement not met
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- From Stavanger: Lysefjord Sightseeing RIB Boat Tour
- Stavanger: Preikestolen Classic Hike and Side Trail
- Stavanger: Guided Sunrise Hike to Pulpit Rock
- Stavanger: Customized Private Tour With a Local
- From Stavanger: Pulpit Rock Guided Hike With Pickup
- Stavanger: Lysefjord, Høllesli Viewpoint & Ytra Dorvika Trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hike Suitable for Children?
The hike may not be suitable for young children, as it is moderately challenging. While older, experienced children could potentially manage the hike, the tour isn’t specifically designed for families with young kids.
Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?
Dogs are generally not permitted on the hike to Pulpit Rock due to the challenging terrain and safety concerns. The tour company’s policies prohibit bringing pets to ensure the experience is safe and enjoyable for all participants.
Is the Trail Wheelchair Accessible?
The trail to Pulpit Rock is not wheelchair accessible. The hike involves steep, uneven terrain that would be challenging for wheelchair users. Accessible options may be available, but this particular trail is not designed for wheelchair access.
Can I Purchase Snacks and Drinks Along the Way?
There are no snack or drink options along the hike to Pulpit Rock. Travelers should bring their own supplies, as there are no facilities on the trail. It’s essential to stay hydrated and fueled for the moderately challenging hike.
Is It Possible to Extend the Time at the Top of Pulpit Rock?
The tour operator typically allows 30-60 minutes at the top of Pulpit Rock. However, the duration can be extended if requested in advance, subject to the guide’s discretion and the group’s overall schedule.
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Recap
The guided hike to Pulpit Rock, Preikestolen, offers a moderately challenging yet rewarding experience. With proper equipment and a moderate fitness level, hikers can enjoy the thrill of reaching the iconic plateau and capturing breathtaking panoramic views of the deep-blue fjord and towering cliffs.
Descending back down the same trail concludes this unforgettable adventure.
Weather conditions and cancellation policies should be considered when planning the tour.