The Pulpit Rock hike in numbers
The Pulpit Rock hike leads from the trailhead to the Preikestolen plateau and back. The route is about 8 km return and climbs 500 metres in total. The plateau lies 604 metres above the Lysefjord. Plan around 4 hours for the full walk.
That time is a planning value for suitable conditions, not a promise. Winter gear, daylight and weather change what the walk demands. If you would rather not drive or walk alone, a guided Pulpit Rock tour from Stavanger handles transport and a guide.
Pulpit Rock hike starting point
Where the trail begins and what it costs to park.
The hike starts at the trailhead car park. Parking for a car over 2 hours costs NOK 275, as of 2026. Fees can change, so check the price on the day. Parking is not an entrance fee for the mountain. Guided tours that cover the fee list it in their inclusions.
Without a car you need a bus or a tour. The getting there page explains the options, and the schedule differs by season, so check the current timetable before you plan your way back.
Our pick: guided hike by bus
If you would rather not organise the trip to the trailhead yourself, this tour takes you by bus with a local guide.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in euros (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Guided Pulpit Rock hikes from Stavanger
Guided hikes with pick-up or bus transport, and combinations with a fjord cruise, with live prices and availability.
Pulpit Rock hike difficulty and time
What the numbers mean on the ground.
Ascent and effort
500 metres of climbing over 8 km return is a real day-hike effort. Plan your pace around the slowest person in your group and leave time for the plateau.
Time
The planning time of around 4 hours covers the walk up and down. Add time for rest, photos and weather. A guide's pace can differ from yours.
Gear
Wear sturdy shoes and clothes for changing weather. In winter, spikes or crampons and warm clothing may be needed. A tour that covers winter supplies spikes, poles and a headlamp.
At the edge
Weather can change quickly, and fog, wind, rain or ice change the conditions. Turn around if conditions get worse.
Guided or alone
A guide is recommended without experience or in winter. No general legal rule requires a guide, so the decision is yours.
Planning your hiking day
Small choices that keep the day relaxed.
Start early enough
Daylight is short in the cold months, so count back from sunset and allow for the full 4 hours plus rest. In winter, daylight is the limit that matters most.
Pack for the whole walk
Bring water, food, a warm layer and a rain jacket. Guided tours usually supply a typical Norwegian hiking snack, but water and lunch may be your own.
Check the weather first
If cloud sits low, the view from the plateau may be limited. Look at the forecast the evening before and again in the morning, and keep a second day free if you can.
Combine with the fjord
Many visitors pair the walk with a boat trip on another day. A Lysefjord cruise shows the same cliff from below.
Plan the rest of your trip
More on Pulpit Rock and the Lysefjord.
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
The three ways to see the cliff.
Preikestolen in winter
Snow, ice, daylight and spikes.
Best time to visit
Which months suit the hike.
For other big fjords in Norway, see the Norwegian fjords guide.
Pulpit Rock hike: frequently asked questions
How long is the Pulpit Rock hike?
About 8 km return, with 500 metres of ascent in total.
How long does the Preikestolen hike take?
Around 4 hours in suitable conditions. This is a planning value, not a promise.
Where does the Pulpit Rock hike start?
At the trailhead car park. Parking for a car over 2 hours costs NOK 275 as of 2026.
Is the hike open in winter?
The trail is generally open all year, but snow, ice, short daylight and quick weather changes can make it harder. See Preikestolen in winter.
Do I need a guide?
No law requires one. A guide is recommended without experience or in winter.