Some places are so perfect that they seem man-made. Kjeragbolten in Norway is one of those places. This enormous boulder is wedged between two rock faces rising 1,000 meters (3280 ft) above Lysefjord. As if that weren’t remarkable enough, you can also step onto this boulder from the side, allowing for a daring photo opportunity. You reach it via a beautiful hike across the Kjerag mountain plateau. Here, we share our tips for hiking to Kjeragbolten.
Kjeragbolten Hike in Brief
Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi) in total
Duration: 5 to 6 hours of hiking
Elevation Gain: 583 m (1913 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
How Difficult is the Hike to Kjeragbolten?
Online, you’ll find dramatic horror stories about the hike to Kjeragbolten. In our view, this is somewhat exaggerated. While it is definitely a challenging hike due to the three steep sections you need to climb, it’s manageable for anyone in good physical condition. The steep sections have iron chains to hold onto, which makes the ascent considerably easier.
When Can You Do the Hike?
You can hike to Kjeragbolten without a guide from June 1 to September 30. Outside these months, you must hike with a guide. In June, there may still be some snow, but the route is clearly marked with a red T and red arrows painted on the rocks. Once you reach the Kjerag plateau, follow the stone cairns placed every 20 meters (66 ft). The paths are also visible in the Maps.me app.
Note: The paths can be very slippery in the rain, especially on the steep sections, due to the polished rocks from many hikers. Make sure to hold onto the iron chains firmly when the path is wet.
What is the Hike to Kjeragbolten Like?
The Kjerag plateau stands at 1,100 meters (3610 ft) above Lysefjord. The hike to Kjeragbolten crosses this plateau, starting with three challenging climbs and descents before walking along the top of the plateau to reach Kjeragbolten. The final section is relatively flat and less varied. The three climbing sections are quite steep, with poles and iron chains to help you ascend. These sections can be slippery due to heavy foot traffic. We sometimes found it easier to walk a few meters beside the chains for better grip, though you won’t have the chains for support there. The route is stunning, passing through various landscapes with expansive views of the mountains, Lysefjord, and the village of Lysebotn. You may encounter grazing sheep and small streams through the grassy meadows with wildflowers.
Just before reaching Kjeragbolten, you can take a right to view the viewpoint over Lysefjord and the Kjeragfossen waterfall, which cascades hundreds of meters down into the fjord. From here, it’s a short walk to Kjeragbolten. You can step onto the boulder from the back with a big step. It can be helpful to have someone assist you for stability. On busy days, there may be a queue for a photo on the rock, but the view makes it a wonderful place to rest after the hike. After taking your photo on Kjeragbolten, retrace your steps back.
Sometimes you need to stray from the beaten path to find the most beautiful surprises. During our hike to Kjeragbolten on a sunny day, we spotted a small waterfall with a crystal-clear pool in the valley below. It was the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in the meltwater from the snowy mountain peaks! This hidden pool is a short distance from the trail and doesn’t have a marked path. Want to take a swim? This is the location of this (currently) hidden spot, and from this location on the trail, it’s best to walk to it. Make sure to walk on the left side of the stream and follow it until you reach the waterfall. There are several small waterfalls and pools to choose from.
Free or Paid Parking at the Trailhead
For beautiful hikes in Norway, you never have to pay an entrance fee, but parking at the trailheads can be quite expensive. This is also the case at the parking lot at the start of the Kjeragbolten hike, where parking costs around €25 per day. If you want to park for free, you’ll need to walk a bit more or hitchhike. This free parking lot has quite a few spaces. From here, expect a 30 to 45-minute walk to the start of the hike. On the other side, about the same distance from the start, is this free parking lot by a waterfall where you can also swim or camp.
Packing List for the Kjeragbolten Hike
- Waterproof windbreaker
- Rain pants
- Hiking shoes with good traction
- Water and snacks
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Gloves
- Optional: Trekking poles
- Optional: Swimwear
What’s a Good Base for the Kjeragbolten Hike?
The nearest village is Lysebotn, situated at the end of Lysefjord. This picturesque spot is nestled between two mountains, accessible only via a winding mountain road. There’s no gas station or supermarket, but there are a few small accommodations. At Kjerag Tiny Lodge, you can stay in a charming tiny cabin. It may not be spacious, but the fjord and waterfall views make up for it! At Hauane Bed and Breakfast, you’ll stay in a beautiful country house with a lovely garden full of fruit trees. Enjoy the tranquility and nature in the morning while breakfast is served. If you’re camping or traveling with a camper, you can stay at Kjerag Lysebotn Camping. The trailhead for Kjeragbolten can also be reached from Stavanger, but expect a travel time of about 2.5 hours one way.
Note: Availability for accommodations in Lysebotn is very limited, so if you want to stay there, it’s essential to book well in advance. This doesn’t apply to the campground.
 Kjerag Tiny Lodge |
 Hauane Bed and Breakfast |
 Kjerag Lysebotn Camping |
