SamuelNorway is renowned for its breathtaking natural wonders, and the Kjeragbolten is undoubtedly one of the country’s most iconic and awe-inspiring attractions. The famous Kjerag hike to the “stuck boulder” has captured the imagination of outdoor enthusiasts from around the world, drawing them to the rugged Lysefjord region for the chance to stand atop this remarkable geological formation.
In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through our unforgettable 5.5-hour hike to the Kjeragbolten. We’ll share our experiences, practical tips, and the sheer beauty for the hike to this natural wonder. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, this post will inspire you to add the Kjeragbolten to your hiking bucket list.
The Kjeragbolten: A Geological Marvel
The Kjeragbolten is a large boulder that has become wedged in a crevice on the Kjerag mountain at an elevation of 1,084 meters above the Lysefjord. What makes the Kjeragbolten so captivating is its precarious position, seemingly defying gravity as it gets stuck between the towering rock walls. Visitors who brave the hike to the top are rewarded with the opportunity to stand on the boulder, with the breathtaking Lysefjord a full kilometer below them.
Kjeragbolten hike is one of what we call the Norway’s Big Three, or the Norwegian Trilogy, along with Preikestolen and Trolltunga. These are the some of the most famous hikes in this amazing country that should be on every outdoor’s enthusiasts’ bucket list.
Before the Kjerag Hike – Practical Considerations
Before embarking on the Kjeragbolten hike, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind:
- Parking: The main parking lot costs 300 NOK per car, but we spotted some free parking possibilities a few kilometers up the road on Fv500. Just be sure to check for any parking restrictions.
- Accommodation: The nearest accommodation option is in the town of Lysebotn, at the base of the fjord. There is also a camping site in Lysebotn if you prefer a more rustic experience. Alternatively, you can try wild camping a few hundred meters away from the parking lot.
- Facilities: At the trailhead, you’ll find a service building with toilets and a cafe for refreshments. However, the shower is closed at night.
- Difficulty: The hike is considered moderately challenging, with steep sections and the use of chains to aid the steep climb.
- Weather: The weather can be unpredictable in the Lysefjord region, so it’s essential to check the forecast and pack appropriate gear. We were fortunate to have mostly dry conditions, but rain or snow could make the hike much more difficult and potentially dangerous. There was still even snow on some stretch of the trail in August.
- Tip: Spare some time and stop by Lysebotn below to get an amazing view of the Lysefjord. You can also take a boat tour through the fjord from here and see both Preikestolen and Kjerag from below.
The Trail to the Kjeragbolten
The Kjerag hike is no easy feat, but the stunning vistas and the sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort. The hike begins at the trailhead, right at the official parking lot.
The trail itself is approximately 5.5 hours long, with a total elevation gain of around 800 meters (2,625 feet). The path is well-marked and maintained, but it’s not without its challenges. The hike is divided into three steep sections, each requiring the use of chains to assist in the ascent.
As we made our way up the first steep section, we were greeted by stunning views of the mighty Lysefjord, the town Lysebotn below, and the surrounding mountains. The chains and ladders provided a welcome aid, helping us to navigate the challenging terrain.
The second steep section was equally demanding, but you’ll still be rewarded with amazing view of the surrounding landscape with its lush green valleys and stunning lake. We paused to catch our breath and take in the breathtaking panorama before continuing on to the final push.
The third and final steep section was the most challenging, with the trail becoming increasingly narrow and steeper. There was even still patches of snow on the trail in mid-summer. However, the chains and ladders were a reassuring presence, and we took our time to ensure a safe and steady ascent.
Throughout this Kjerag hike, we were struck by the sheer scale and beauty of the Lysefjord region. The towering cliffs, the deep blue waters, and the snow-capped peaks created a truly awe-inspiring backdrop to our journey.
Reaching the Kjeragbolten
After approximately 2.5 hours of hiking, we finally reached the Kjeragbolten, the famous “stuck boulder”. The sight of the boulder, precariously stuck between the rock walls, was truly a sight to behold. The boulder itself is an impressive sight on its own, measuring around 5 meters in diameter and weighing an estimated 5 tons.
We took our time to explore the area, taking in the views, enjoying our well earned lunch, and snapping countless photos. The opportunity to stand on the Kjeragbolten itself was a truly unforgettable experience, with the vast expanse of the Lysefjord stretching out right below us.
One of the highlights of our visit was the chance to dance on the Kjeragbolten. The sense of exhilaration and accomplishment was palpable. Do watch your steps and don’t do any stupid stuffs. There is yet anyone to lose their lives in Kjerag, but you don’t want to be the first one.
To stand on Kjeragbolten, you’d need to approach it from the back side through a narrow ledge between the boulder and the cliff’s edge. You can see in our video at the end of this page how people approach the boulder.
