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Trail and rock formation · Stavanger, Rogaland
Kjeragbolten
A rock wedged in a crevice between two cliff faces about 1,000 meters above the Lysefjord, on the summit plateau of Kjerag; the trail starts at Øygardstøl above Lysebotn and is usually done in summer.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Kjeragbolten
Kjeragbolten is a block of rock of about 5 cubic meters wedged in a narrow crevice between two cliff walls on the Kjerag plateau, near the end of the Lysefjord. Below it the crevice opens into a drop of almost 1,000 meters to the water. Many people climb onto the stone for photos, but the hike is also well worth it for the trail and the fjord views without stepping on the boulder.
The trail starts at Øygardstøl, a restaurant and visitor center high on the road that descends in switchbacks to Lysebotn. It is about 5.5 km each way, with three steep climbs, sections with fixed chains in the rock for handholds, and stretches of granite plateau. Round trip, allow 5 to 7 hours.
Along the way, the plateau features lakes, views of the Lysefjord and the Kjerag cliffs. The Kjeragbolten crevice is near the end of the trail, marked with red signs.
The trail is usually done from June to September, when the road to Lysebotn is open and the plateau is snow-free. Outside that period, only with a guide. It is more demanding than the Preikestolen trail and requires good fitness and proper hiking footwear.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 5 to 7 hours round trip.
Best time
From June to September, when the road to Øygardstøl and Lysebotn is usually open and the trail snow-free. Start early and check the forecast: in rain the rock becomes slippery; in fog you won't see the fjord.
How to get there
From Stavanger, it is about a 2.5-hour drive to Øygardstøl via the Lysevegen road. In summer there are usually tour buses and the ferry to Lysebotn, with bus connections to the trailhead.
Tip
Go with hiking footwear, layered clothing, water and food. You do not need to climb onto the rock to enjoy the trail. Respect the return time so you don't descend in the dark.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kjeragbolten
Is the Kjerag trail more difficult than the Preikestolen one?
Yes. It is longer, about 11 km round trip, with three steep climbs and sections with chains. It requires good fitness.
When can you do Kjerag?
It is usually done from June to September, when the road is open and there is no snow. Outside that period, only with a guide.
Is it mandatory to climb onto the rock?
No. The trail and the view are already worth the trip, and many people just look at the rock.
How to get there without a car?
In summer, there are excursion buses from Stavanger and the ferry to Lysebotn, with buses to the start of the trail.