PULPIT ROCK

​The pulpit is one of Norway's biggest attractions. The walk is so long and demanding that it gives experienced walkers a sense of mastery, while the path is so well laid out that most people reach the top. The trip to Preikestolen starts from the paid car park at Preikestolen Basecamp, where there is a service building with toilets. For the first 500 metres, you go up a winding dirt road with an ascent of over 80 metres. It flattens out a bit, before the path again continues steadily up the mountain. It is well organized with bridges over the wettest parts and on the steepest and most demanding parts Sherpas from Nepal have built stone stairs. This makes the trip easier at the same time that the measures protect nature. There are many nice places to rest along the path, but at Tjødnane, around 1 kilometer from Preikestolen, you can combine your lunch break with a refreshing dip in the small pond. ​ During the trip, you walk through birch forest and on bare rocks in slightly hilly terrain. When you catch a glimpse of the Lysefjord, you know that there is not far to go. As you walk along the famous fjord, the Pulpit, with its characteristic shape, suddenly comes into view. Once on the flat plateau, which is only 25 x 25 metres, you can enjoy the fantastic view over the Lysefjorden, 604 meters below you. It is not without reason that CNN Go and Lonely Planet have named the Pulpit as one of the world's most spectacular viewpoints. After you've taken the obligatory photos and had a well-deserved break, the tour returns the same way. ​ The trip is 4 kilometers one way and has a total height difference of 500 metres. It is usual to rain for around 2 hours each way. You can go to Preikestolen all year round, but the high season is from May to September. To avoid queues in the summer, it may be a good idea to take advantage of the long days by starting your trip early in the morning or late in the afternoon, but never so late that you don't get back before dark. It is becoming increasingly popular to visit the Pulpit in the off-season. The sunrise in autumn and the winter hike with spikes on a snow- and ice-covered trail are unique hiking experiences you will never forget. Remember to have lunch, good shoes and warm clothes, also in summer. Although there is a good temperature in the car park, there is often a cold draft at the top. ​ Source: Visitnorway.no