Pulpit Rock Norway Hike - Everything You Need To Know 2024

If you're dreaming of visiting the stunning Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) in Norway but want to explore the country on a budget, you're in the right place.

If you're like us and travelling Norway on a budget you may be surprised to hear the price of car parking at Pulpit Rock. How much is the parking at Pulpit Rock? Well it will set you back NOK 250 (£18.70). This may not seem 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!

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.

Pulpit Rock Location & Access

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. Travelers can reach Stavanger by air, train, or bus, with the trailhead accessible by a scenic ferry ride. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-timer, the Pulpit Rock hike accommodates all levels of fitness. We'll discuss accessibility considerations for different types of travellers, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience this natural wonder.

Preikestolen Free Parking

Is there free parking at Preikestolen? There is no official parking that is free but with this blog and some extra walking it can be done. To park for free there is a small layby off the main road where you can fit around 3 campervans. Location: 58.984579,6.092579.

We parked here and spent the night before doing 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. It's worth noting the official car park opens at 6am.

How To Get To Pulpit Rock?

To get to the hike from the layby you need to walk down the busy main road (we did this at 5am and only met one car.) We did this walk in early September and it was still dark enough that we needed a torch. The hike is 6km one way to the start of the walk and it is all uphill - you need a reasonable level of fitness.

The route to the start of the walk.

How Hard is the Pulpit Rock Hike?

After about an hour off the road you will see a sign for Preikestolen. Here you will be glad that you miss the steep climb from the carpark and you will be on the hiking trail. The trail takes around 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 have a good level of fitness.

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.

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

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?

How hard is the Pulpit Rock hike?

How long does it take to hike Pulpit Rock?

How was Pulpit Rock formed?

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, the views are outstanding for both, they are breath takingly beautiful, both require paid parking however pulpit rock is cheaper.

We also have a blog on Trolltunga which you can fin here: Trolltunga Hike: A Guide & Tips to Trolltunga From Odda with a Campervan or Motorhome 2024

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