Preikestolen Guided Winter Hike

Preikestolen in winter is a different place from the postcard of summer. Snow lies on the plateau and the trail, the fjord below is dark and still, the crowds are gone and the short days turn the light golden for much of the afternoon. It is also a much more serious outing: the steps are icy or buried, the daylight is limited, and conditions change quickly. That is the case for going with a guide. A local professional watches the weather, carries the right equipment, decides whether the route is safe on the day and sets a pace that keeps everyone warm without rushing. If you have the right clothing and a taste for cold, still landscapes, this is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region.

The route is the same as in summer, around eight kilometres return from the Preikestolhytta trailhead, but in snow the walking time can stretch to five or six hours, and the descent needs particular care. Guides usually provide or require traction aids for footwear, and you should expect to wear insulated boots, wool socks, a warm base layer, an insulating mid-layer, a windproof and waterproof shell, hat, gloves and sunglasses, because the glare off snow is strong.

Poles help a great deal on the steps. Bring more food and hot drink than you think you need, since you will be moving slowly and the cold burns energy.

Because winter days are short, departure times are set so that you are down before dark, and a group will turn back if the weather, wind or avalanche and ice conditions make the plateau unsafe. A good operator will tell you in advance what happens if the hike is cancelled, which is a real possibility. Treat the plan as flexible, and build a spare day into your stay if Preikestolen is the main reason you are visiting between late autumn and early spring.

The reward is solitude. On a clear cold day you may have the rock almost to yourselves, the view along Lysefjord is crisp, and the snow gives the cliffs a graphic, monochrome look that photographers love. On a grey day the view can vanish into cloud, but the walk through quiet snowy forest is still atmospheric. The edge is as unprotected as ever and is more dangerous under snow and ice, because the true edge can be hard to see, so follow your guide exactly.

This suits confident walkers who are comfortable in the cold, couples and friends who like a challenge, and photographers. It is not recommended for young children, anyone with poor balance or mobility, or people without suitable winter clothing. Check fitness expectations, what equipment is supplied and the minimum group size when you book, and always have a backup plan such as the old town, the museums or a hot meal on the harbour in case the hike does not run.