FATMAP by Strava

Preikestolen

An iconic cliff hanging 604 meters above Lysefjorden.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
7.4 km
Ascent
435 m
Descent
435 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
287 m
High Point
574 m
Gradient
13˚
Preikestolen Map

Have you ever wondered where those few minutes in the last scenes of the movie "Mission: Impossible - Fallout," featuring Tom Cruise climbing the face of a cliff, were recorded? The answer is Preikestolen, the famous tourist attraction above Lysefjorden located in Ryfylket featuring an amazing 604-meter drop!

Description

The roughly 25x25-meter plateau (called Pulpit Rock in English) has vertical walls down into the beautiful fjord below. Expansions of ice many thousands of years ago have now left us with an impressive, naturally-made site. This is now one of the many wonders of the lovely country of Norway.

The starting point of the hike is very accessible, with a lovely trip on a ferry through Lysefjorden to get you there. Once you set off on the hike, you will find that the path itself is very well marked and it is therefore very easy to find the way. Be aware, though, of some exposed areas, especially on the last part of the “cliff walk.” This part is generally more than wide enough to feel comfortable, but there are no fences on the cliff side with a 5-600-meter drop.
Considering the popularity, one should be prepared for hiking together with a lot of other people/tourists. Additionally, this means that there will often be many people in line to take pictures. For some of the more daring ones, a typical photo is taken at the edge. For others, amazing pictures can also be achieved from above the plateau. An option to avoid the crowd would be to start very early, and maybe also catch a beautiful sunrise?

Remember to bring hiking boots and some snacks, but maybe most importantly: Your camera!

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Features

  • Picturesque
  • Wild flowers
  • Family friendly