Preikestolen Autumn Hike
1,190 NOK per person | ★★★★★ (31 guest reviews)
Autumn is the perfect time of year to experience the Lysefjord and Preikestolen from a unique perspective. Witness the magic of the season’s shifting colors and post-equinox daylight.
Includes ‘Swords in Rock’ Viking Monument Visit!
2018 Season: November 1 – December 31
Other Preikestolen adventures:
Preikestolen Winter / Spring Hike | Jan. 2 – Apr. 30
Preikestolen Winter / Spring Hike + Lodge Package | Feb. 1 – Apr. 30
Preikestolen Hike ‘Off the Beaten Track’ | Apr. 24 – Oct. 15
Preikestolen Sunrise Hike | Apr. 24 – Oct. 31
Tour Includes
• Stavanger pick-up / drop-off
• Transportation
• 2 ferry crossings
• Professional guide
• Use of snow spikes (if needed)
• Use of hiking poles
• Hot beverages & snack
• Swords in Rock monument visit
Please Bring
• Proper hiking boots*
• Warm, thick socks x 2
• Water-resistant pants*
• Rain-proof jacket*
• Fleece or woolen sweater
• Warm hat and gloves*
• Small backpack*
• Packed lunch / water / snacks
*items can also be rented
Extras
• Photography package
• Hiking boot rental
• Hiking pants rental
• Hiking jacket rental
• Day-pack rental
• Hiking gloves
• Post-hike beer / tapas
Difficulty
MODERATE
Suitable for participants who are generally in good physical condition & have previous hiking experience.
• Distance: 8 kilometers
• Ascent: 500 meters
Participants
MAXIMUM: 14 Hikers
MUST BE:
≥ 8 years old
> 36kg | 79lbs.
> 135cm | 4ft. 5in.
(more information)
Please do not book tours that exceed your skill-level or physical abilities.
(more information)
Weather Changes
Due to the possibility of rapidly-changing weather conditions, it may be necessary to make changes to scheduled trips. In the event that your trip needs to be rescheduled for another day or cancelled on short notice, you may choose between joining the rescheduled trip or getting a refund. In the event that weather conditions deteriorate during your trip, it may be necessary to turn around on the trail or head back earlier than planned. If this happens, no refunds will be given.
On an annual basis, Preikestolen welcomes more visitors than any other trekking-destination in Norway. In 2018, approximately 300,000 hikers are expected to make their way up to the top of the imposing cliff that hangs 604 meters above the Lysefjord.
Join Outdoorlife Norway on an autumn hike to Preikestolen, and witness the magic of the season’s shifting colors and post-equinox daylight. Experience Norway’s crisp and cool mountain air while hiking on trails that were recently upgraded by Nepalese Sherpas, who ‘paved’ the way using local stones. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the ‘Swords in Rock’ viking monument.
After an early-morning pick-up, your adventure will begin with a 40-minute ferry ride, during which you can view Stavanger from a different perspective and get an overview of the surrounding fjords, islands, and mountains. Your guide will then transport you further to the base of the hiking trail. After a short briefing, you’ll embark on your journey to Preikestolen.
By October, visitor numbers have become dramatically lower than they are during the summer. The area’s flora and fauna prepare for the long, dark winter, and stillness has set in across Norway’s vast wilderness. Autumn is the perfect time of year to experience the Lysefjord and Preikestolen from a unique perspective. The shadows become longer with every day that passes, and the ambient light seems to dance across the fjord’s mountainsides. Snow, when present, offers a splendid contrast to the flame-colored foliage.
Your guide will lead you up through the shifting terrain and onward to the mountain’s plateau. This late in the year, weather conditions are constantly changing. As needed, you’ll adjust the equipment you use (ice spikes, etc.) in accordance with the changing conditions. Along the way, there will be opportunities to catch your breath and snap photos of the spectacular nature around you. After 2.5 hours* of trekking, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of some of the most dramatic scenery Fjord-Norway has to offer. Standing atop the 604-meter-high cliff, the views of the Lysefjord and surrounding mountains are nothing short of awe-inspiring. On top of that, you’ll have the privilege of becoming one of the very few to have experienced Preikestolen off-season =)
After a well-deserved break at the cliff’s edge, your guide will lead you back down to Preikestolen Mountain Lodge, which will take about 2 hours*. (We strongly recommend this modern yet cozy lodge as a place to overnight before and/or after your hike.) On the way back to Stavanger, you’ll navigate a different route, including a second ferry crossing, which offers unique views of the mouth of the Lysefjord. Your adventure will conclude with a stop at the viking memorial site ‘Swords in Rock’, where the viking king Harald Fairhair’s triumph in battle resulted in Norway becoming one kingdom.
*In the event that snow is present, your hike may last longer than approximated.
Duration:
Total: ~8-9 hours (depends on pick-up location and weather conditions)
Hiking: ~6 hours (including breaks)
Transportation: ~2 hours (return)
Visit to Swords in Rock: ~20 minutes
Pick-up:
When booking, you can select one of the following pick-up locations.
| Pick-up location | Pick-up time |
|---|---|
| Thon Hotel Maritim (back entrance) | 07:30am |
| Stavanger Bed & Breakfast | 07:35am |
| St. Svithun Hotel/Hostel | 07:40am |
| Park Inn by Radisson Stavanger Hotel | 07:40am |
| Clarion Hotel Stavanger (Arne Rettedalsgate) | 07:45am |
| Radisson Blu Atlantic Hotel | 07:45am |
| Stavanger Tourist Information Office | 07:45am |
| Clarion Collection Skagen Brygge | 07:50am |
| Kanelsnurren Bakery | 07:55am |
| Scandic Stavanger City (parking lot, back entrance) | 07:55am |
| Lilland Hotel (Tau) | 08:50am |
| Verkshotellet (Jørpeland) | 09:00am |
| Preikestolen Mountain Lodge | 09:10am |
Drop-off:
The tour ends in Stavanger at approximately* 17:30 (5:30pm).
*In the event that snow is present, your hike may last longer than approximated.
OTHER TOURS THAT MAY BE OF INTEREST
Kjerag Autumn Hike
1,390 NOK per-person
During autumn, the Kjerag mountain foliage becomes shades of yellow and orange. Visitors are rare and the chance of snow increases. Necessary spikes and/or snowshoes are included.
2018 Season: October – November
GUEST REVIEWS
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Magical [autumn] day hike to Preikestolen
I only had one day in Stavanger mid December and had alwast wanted to hike to Preikestolen. Found this little company online that offers hikes yearround.
Picked up and dropped off at my hotel by very friendly and welcoming guide and owner Johannes.
Total group consisted of 6 people. The conditions were fantastic, 25 cm of fresh snow everywhere and sun shining through the trees. Only one person had beaten us to the top, but other than him, we were the only ones there. Some people followed us later on.
Johannes equipped us with spikes under our shoes, walking sticks and a warm beverage on top of the pulpit rock. It was quite a hike for him, plowing through fresh thick snow and making a clear path for us. He clearly marked and cleared snow-hidden crossing creeks, tricky and steep steps. His positive and mindful attitude contributed to a very special experience. I would recommend this company to anyone who wants to truly enjoy Norway’s beautiful nature!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Autumn Hike
Der Umgang war sehr persönlich. Ich empfehle es auf jeden Fall weiter!!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
The hike to Preikelstolen on the 31st of December
I have norhing but positive feedback on the tour, where we had Christopher as our guide. He has been to Preikelstolen, hundreds of times ever since he was a small kid. So, he knows the area. He also had a training for mountain rescue and paramedic, so that made me feel safe as well.
I thought I would have problems, because I’m afraid of hights. I did not fear at all.
The wind on the rock was blowing hard, but our guide would not have taken us there if it was unsafe.
When hiking in the winter, you get the luxury of having only a few other people around. So, I think, you get better pictures.
If you have good, waterproof gear and spikes for the shoes (which the company will provide, you will be ok.I think. The difficulty is more than medium, so it’s not for people, who have difficulties walking up- or downhill or have really bad knees.
I highly recommend Outdoorlife Norway’s hike to the Preikelstolen
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Great experience – highly recommended
Had an amazing time experiencing the Preikestolen hike with Outdoorlife Norway. They were helpful throughout the whole process – our guide provided several convenient pickup places, motivated people who struggled, and actively worked to create a positive environment. The weather made having a guide imperative, especially for us who’d never hiked the trail before. For a winter hike, I highly recommend Outdoorlife.
The hike itself was beautiful, snow and fog surrounded us and it felt like a movie scene. The view at the top on a foggy day is awe-inspiring, and despite how amazing the pictures were they don’t do it justice.
I recommend preparing waterproof clothing (cloves, boots, jacket, and pants). They offer rentals of each, but you can save money by being prepared. A change of clothes can help if you aren’t comfortable with being wet by the time you’re at the bottom.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
A stunning experience on the Preikestolen Autumn Hike
I highly recommend the Autumn Hike if you want to beat the crowds. We bumped into some norwegians who were descending while we did our hike but otherwise, you have the entire place to just your group.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Fantastic!!!!!
RachelVerified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Perfect experience
VictorVONDOOMVerified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Preikestolen Autumn Hike Challenge!
I was on a solo trip and was glad to find that it doesnt matter how many people have booked, as long as the weather allows, the tour will go ahead even if you’re the only person booked on. Such is Johannes dedication to excellent service and getting people out into the wild and having an amazing experience.
The hike is great for people just starting to get into the activity and experience hikers will love it too. Loads to see and learn and during the autumn winter period, lots of icicles to eat! 100% would recommend this tour and any of Outdoorlifes others. I’ll definitely be booking with them again! Takk fur turen!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Fantastische ervaring met deze autumn-hike. Johannes heeft ons een super dag bezorgd. Mooie gesprekken en een relaxte coaching. We voelden ons veilig en vertrouwd, ondanks de soms gladde met sneeuw en ijs bedekte paden, door zijn fijne aanpak konden we onbezorgd genieten van deze bijzondere tocht en de prachtige uitzichten. Johannes heeft een hele mooie band met Noorwegen en de natuur, we zagen dat steeds terug in zijn verantwoordelijke aanpak. Takk for turen
AmiekTBVerified review, copied from TripAdvisor
We went on a hike to Pulpit rock and it was one of the best hikes I’ve ever been on. Living in Colorado, I’ve been on PLENTY of hikes, but this was one of the most scenic/enjoyable ones I’ve done anywhere. We went in the off season, in November, and we passed maybe four people the entire hike. Once we reached pulpit rock, we were the only ones up there for almost an hour. It was incredible. I’d recommend this hike in the off season, even with the cold temperatures. It’s so worth it to not only have the guide with you, but to not have to share the views with hundreds of other hikers like you would during the busy season. I would book a hike with this company again in a heart beat. Our guide was on time and very informative. It was also extremely nice to have someone to provide the spikes and hiking poles so that we did not have to bring our own.
Erlend, our guide, was AWESOME. He was by far the nicest/coolest person we met on our trip! 🙂
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
펄핏락에 3번째 다녀왔는데 outdoorlife를 통해서 다녀온 이번 여행이 제일 좋았습니다.
가이드인 크리스토퍼는 타우 토박이이며 응급구조사여서 그 지역과 관련된 이야기도 듣고 든든했습니다. 오후에 쏟아진 비를 피하기 위해 걸음이 어린 아이를 거의 트레킹 내내 목마태우고 다닌것도 인상적이었습니다. 비수기에는 교통편이 마땅치 않으므로 더더욱 추천합니다.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
We did a pulpit rock hike with outdoorlife norway and it was the best decision made. Chris our guide initially told us that our 6 year old son might not be able to hike up as the weather forecast is not ideal. But having assured that he has the right gear eg. Waterproof shoes, windproof and waterproof pants, jacket, Chris push through the hike with us. The hike was not easy for us, and Chris carried my son on his shoulders for most of the technically difficult routes up and down! We are super impressed with his physique, strength and fitness. Could never have made it to the top without him! So glad we chose outdoorlife norway, they are highly recommended!!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
My wife and I hiked up Preikestolen with Outdoorlife Norway in December and had an amazing time. Our guide was fantastic, very knowledgeable about the area and we learned a great deal from him about Norwegian culture as well. Totally worth the money to book with this great company if you would like a guided hike!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Went for the autumn hike on 13th Dec which is the off peak season and not exactly recommended by many to hike up to Preikestolen due to the weather condition. However, we decided to book a guided hike with Outdoorlife Norway and totally didn’t regret the decision.
It was a rainy and foggy morning, however, we continued the hike – something we would not have done if not for the fact that we had an experienced guide who is familiar with the terrain. When we reached the top, we were very very very lucky. The skies cleared, and we had a great view from Preikestolen. And because it was off-peak season, there were only us when we reached. That means, we could spend lots of time taking photos and enjoying our packed lunch in peace.
Our guide was Audun who obviously likes what he’s doing and loves the nature and Jack & Jacklin (the 2 birds residing at Preikestolen). We were a small group – 4 ladies and Audun made the effort to set the pace of the hike according to our energy level, so even my friend who has not done much hiking before managed to make her way up.
I would recommend this guided tour especially during off-season as there aren’t many people / local there during this period, there’s no way you can follow anyone up or ask for directions if you get lost. And if the fog comes, you can really get lost there.
Hiking poles are provided and hiking boots/clothes can be rented from them.
Layer your clothes as you’ll be perspiring when you hike, but will feel cold once you reach the top and stop to rest. Bring a pair of waterproof hiking boots (there’s mud and water puddles), and raincoat/waterproof jacket for the hike.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
We were unsure if we would be able to hike up to Preikestolen during our visit as we had read that it is unadvisable during late autumn/winter. After a bit of research we found outdoorlife Norway did guided hikes up to Preiketsolen all year around. Our initial thoughts were it seemed a bit expensive (approx £100 each) but decided to go for it, as we were not confident to walk without a guide. We were definitely not disappointed. The whole trip was worth what we paid for it, amazing day, amazing guide and amazing service.
Everything was smooth running, we were lucky to be on a trip of just 4 visitors, the pick up was very easy (from a local hotel). The costs covered the pick up, ferry over to Tau and the trip up to the car park and then back again (we even got dropped off at our apartment on the way back!).
Our guide, Ivan (sorry Ivan, I wasn’t sure how to spell your name!), was brilliant, knowledgeable, funny, patient, a great photographer (knows all the good photo spots!) and made the day even more enjoyable. We were lucky to have great weather, blue skies and only a bit of ice (the company provided ice spikes for shoes and walking poles- thank God!), and when we got to the rock there were only 4 other people there!
I would not hesitate to recommend outdoorlife Norway as a company to guide you to preikestolen, especially off-season when the weather is unpredictable, and I would say its great value for money!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
it was such an amazing experience. Outdoor life Norway is a great company, they are very concerned with their customers. The guide was very friendly and helped us a lot. the view from preikestolen is priceless. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone who’s looking for the beauty of nature and if it’s your first time I’d recommend Outdoor life Norway as they are awesome.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Very good hike with excellent guide. The weather was amazing. They rent very high quality weather proof clothes and boots. The guide (Allan) was very dedicated and provided great attention. 100% recommended!!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
I was in Stavanger on a November business trip and had the weekend free so decided to book this tour with Outdoor Norway, since they seem to be the only company to do off-season hikes out of Stavanger, and they were recommended to me by a friend who works in the Norwegian tourist sector. Booking was easy, and I opted for the shoe and clothing rental (I don’t recommend doing this in jeans and sneakers, unless you like being cold and wet).
Our group of six couldn’t have asked for a better guide than Alan. Norway is astoundingly beautiful on any given day, but what made this trek even better was that there was hardly anyone else on the trail – not something that would ever happen during summer. Also, the snow-covered landscape is something that you wouldn’t get to enjoy during a summer trip, which made this more special. Even though it snowed during the climb, we were lucky to have good, clear weather when we got to the top… and it being November meant that there were hardly any people on the top to inadvertently photobomb our pictures.
This is easily one of the best hikes I’ve done, and I really recommend the Outdoor Norway climb for anyone that likes hiking and the outdoors.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
We were hiking on the Pulpit Rock with a guide Johannes. For us it was first hiking and it was very funny and spectacular trip. The guide told us a lot of interesting facts about fjords and was very funny and friendly guy. You must to try it!!!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Good and almost individual service from Erlend. Nice touch keeping the group discussing and getting to know each other. Weather was excellent, no rain and also sunny when returning to the car. View from Preikestolen is unic but wonderful scenery also on the way. Lakes and forests far below.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Booking. Extremely easy. We found the companies website before we arrived in Norway. It shows what days are available for what hike, and you can book and pay online. Minimal communication but instructions are extremely clear.
Day of the hike.
Show up to a drop spot which are numerous around the city and very easy to find. Johannes shows up in a van and comes out for introductions. He knows how to spot you!
A ferry ride and a short drive to the start of the hike. The guide is talkative and inquiring the entire way.
The actual hike itself is demanding, but an average person is able to complete it. Its approximately 2.5 hrs up and 2 hrs down. The trails are marked very well but its best to follow your guide.
The pace was quick, but walk your own pace. The guide goes ahead to ensure your safety on the trail. He takes photos too so just because he goes faster doesn’t mean you have to. There are a lot of stops on the way to catch your breath and soak in the scenery.
Once at the top you stop for lunch (bring your own) and some local hot juice (supplied) You stop for pictures and view gazing.
We were taken a different way down the hill which is the same way as the only bad review that was given to this company. It doesnt deserve a bad review. It was beautiful. More rugged yes but this is a path that only locals go and it was a treat to be taken off the beaten path and experience “real” Norwegian hiking as Johannes put it.
The entire trip we were told stories and interesting facts about Norway, the land, the hike, the people who are making the hike safer. Johannes was extremely knowledgeable and very engaging. We were extremely happy booking with this company and intend on returning for a longer hike next year!!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Our guide erlend was polite and kind. He gave us an informative tour about the city, the route, plants and birds. He climbed up and down to take picture for us. The scene at preikestolen was breath-taking and it was a wonderful experience to hike with Outdoorlife Norway
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
I had the opportunity to hike with both Johannes and Erlend on my hike to Kjerag (Approximately 8 hours) and Preikestolen (Approximately 5 hours), respectively.
As an exchange student on a tight budget, I am glad I made the decision to hike with Outdoorlife Norway!
The experience is very personalized on both occasions; both Johannes and Erlend made sure I felt comfortable and safe. To be guided by someone who genuinely take pride and joy in their work was absolutely delightful.
It is a must-do if you plan to visit Norway; No matter the season, Stavanger lies at the heart and Outdoorlife Norway is the perfect guide to Norway.
Takk for turen! Jeg håper å gå tur med deg igjen
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
The Hike, views and landscape outstanding. What makes this company great is the outstanding service. I had travelled from the U.S., not knowing language and how to get around outdoor life handled everything (tickets for the ferry, transportation, small smack)! The e-mails with times were spot on. The guide Enroll (spelling is incorrect) was amazing. So educated about Norwegian life, folklore, traditions, and Biology. We ate edible plants and drank from natural waterfalls.
If I get the chance I will be back with them to do another hike. What a great small company. I couldn’t recommend any more!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
We have just returned from a day trip up to Preikestolen. What a fantastic day! The guide and company owner Johannes was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. He made everyone welcome and took us off the beaten track whilst hiking. A great day – thank you! Highly recommend booking through this company – worth every penny.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Exellent trip with a great guide. He was inspiring and had lots of knowledge. Took good care of my 9-year old daughter, so that we both had a amazing hike to Prekestolen.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Our guide Audun took us for the day and it was an amazing trip. We had great weather ams the views were stunning. We left early to avoid the crowds as it does get busy during the day.
Audun was an amazing guide. Very informative and good sense of humour.
We were treated to snacks, chocolate and the local fruit drink whilst we were on top of the hike.
Highly recommended it. Great job guys!
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
I had such an amazing experience with the Outdoorlife Norway day trips. I did both the autumn hike to kjerag and the Pulpit rock hike. My guide was Johannes, who was absolutely incredible! The hike was fun, with breathtaking views. I would definitely recommend doing the guided tour as they give you lots of information about the surrounding town, and the hikes. They are very knowledgable guides. Also during both of my tours we left the regular path to take a lesser traveled path, which held lots of beautiful views.
Great trip made perfect by Johannes as our guide due to his expertise and willingness to make our trip 100% . I suggest this to all kinds of fitness levels , this will not disappoint ! Only thing I can suggest is being some gloves for when you rest on the edge of the cliff face as it gets very cold. Thank you Johannes for making this experience so good
I needed a weekend to get away and really wanted to give myself a challenge so I chose Stavanger and booked a place on this autumn hike to the Preikestolen. Johannes collected me right on time from my hotel and drove the group to the ferry where we did introductions. The ferry and drive to the start point was lovely and Johannes pointed out areas of interest. The hike itself was pretty challenging for me (pretty overweight!) but with the encouragement of Johannes, the group I was with and the knowledge I had of the destination I managed to achieve what I thought I could not! And it was so worth it. I recommend to anyone spending time in Stavanger to book this tour. It’s an incredible hike to an amazing place and going with Johannes meant that I learned a lot more about the local area and Norway in general that I could have alone. His knowledge and passion for what he does is so apparent in all he does.
Verified review, copied from TripAdvisor
Had a day to spare in Stavanger during a business trip and decided to go with Johannes from Outdoor Life Norway on a guided hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock). We were very lucky with the weather which made a very special day. Johannes does a great job of guiding; very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Highly recommended.