Norway and Iceland 17-Day Deep Tour (Pulpit Rock Hiking)

June 21, Stavanger - Pulpit Rock Hiking - Bøssgrenda Depart from the hotel at 7:30 AM, drive for 1 hour, and arrive at the Pulpit Rock parking lot around 8:30 AM. The name Pulpit Rock comes from its unique 'pulpit-like' shape. This cliff is entirely rectangular, with a vertical wall and a platform at the top forming a massive natural podium. One side of the cliff edge is incredibly smooth, like a giant tabletop, while the other side plunges straight into the clouds. The entire hiking trail to Pulpit Rock is not too difficult, but it is definitely not easy. The initial mountain path is relatively gentle, covered with moss and passing through a primeval forest. As you continue, the challenge increases, with the flat path replaced by steps made of piled rocks. These steps show no signs of artificial carving, looking natural and rustic, but they are uneven and quite strenuous to walk on. The overall trend is upward, with occasional small downward slopes, followed by a long boardwalk. It's a relief to finally not have to step on rocks, but the boardwalk soon ends. I don't know how long I walked, turning one bend after another, always hoping the next bend would bring an end to the steps and a flatter path. But my hopes were dashed; after each bend, there were more steps, and then more steps. Just when you think you're almost there, another steep slope appears, which is really frustrating. The last section of the trail is the most challenging. Just a few hundred meters from the end, you will encounter a sinkhole, like a giant pit blocking your way. This pit is several hundred meters deep, with a narrow wooden footbridge on one side. When you stand at the edge of the sinkhole and look down at the bottomless cliff, your legs will involuntarily tremble. The bridge is only wide enough for one person, with no handrails or protection. I tried to stay as close to the inside as possible, avoiding looking at the pit, and slowly moved across. Despite the hike to Pulpit Rock sounding very thrilling, it is also an excellent place to appreciate the natural beauty of Norway. Besides the unforgettable view from the top of the cliff, the scenery along the way is equally beautiful. Numerous streams flow through the mountains, and the grasslands and forests are lush and green. Occasionally, you might encounter squirrels and other animals, adding a touch of vitality to the journey. From a distance, Pulpit Rock stands abruptly among the towering mountains of the fjord, very spectacular. When you get closer and stand on the platform of Pulpit Rock, the magnificent view of Lysefjord unfolds before your eyes, leaving you in awe. If you are a fan of the 'Mission: Impossible' series, you might recognize Pulpit Rock. Yes! It is the very rock that Tom Cruise climbed in 'Mission: Impossible 6'. After the movie was released, the Pulpit Rock hiking route became famous, undoubtedly the 'star route' among many hiking trails. If you can only hike once in Norway, Pulpit Rock is definitely the top choice. The entire hiking process is simpler than imagined, 8 kilometers round trip, taking 4 hours...