Alternatives to Pulpit Rock – Quiet Hikes Near Stavanger
- Espen Haaland
- Jan 10
- 6 min read
Updated: 6 hours ago
Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) is one of Norway’s most famous viewpoints. The scenery is spectacular, but its popularity means busy trails, fixed schedules and limited space at the top - especially during the summer season.
For travelers looking for quieter alternatives to Pulpit Rock near Stavanger, there are several hikes that offer equally impressive scenery with a calmer atmosphere and more flexibility.
This guide is written for visitors who value space, presence and a more natural hiking experience, including both cruise guests and travelers staying longer in the region.
Why look for alternatives to Pulpit Rock?
At peak times, the Pulpit Rock trail can feel crowded and time-driven.
Many visitors are surprised by:
busy parking and transport logistics
large groups on the trail
limited room to enjoy the viewpoint
Choosing an alternative hike allows you to slow down, adapt the pace, and experience the landscape without pressure.
The Hat (Hatten) - A quiet hike with a sense of exploration
The Hat, also known as Hatten, is a scenic mountain offering wide views over fjords and surrounding peaks. The route is less defined than the Pulpit Rock trail, which naturally keeps visitor numbers lower.
This hike appeals to those who:
enjoy quieter trails
appreciate varied terrain
want dramatic views without the crowds
The summit often feels peaceful and remote, making it a strong alternative for travelers seeking a more personal experience.
Pulpit Rock Back Track - A calmer way to experience the area
For visitors still interested in the Pulpit Rock landscape, the back track route offers a quieter approach.
By accessing the plateau from a different direction, it’s possible to:
avoid the busiest sections of the main trail
move at a more flexible pace
experience less trafficked terrain
This option suits hikers who want the Preikestolen experience, but prefer a calmer journey.
Ramnstoknuten - Wide fjord views in quiet mountain terrain
Ramnstoknuten is a longer hike that leads into open, peaceful mountain terrain with impressive views over Lysefjorden. The trail is rarely busy, and the experience is defined by distance, nature and scenery rather than infrastructure.
This hike is well suited for travelers who:
enjoy spending extended time in the mountains
want wide, high-elevation fjord views
prefer quiet, natural routes away from popular trails
Ramnstoknuten is best suited for visitors staying in the region who want a deeper, more immersive mountain experience.
Reinaknuten - A local-feeling hike with few visitors
Reinaknuten is a lesser-known hike offering a strong sense of being away from tourist routes. The trail sees little traffic and provides a calm, unhurried experience in varied terrain.
This hike works well for those who:
value solitude
prefer a local, low-key route
want to enjoy nature without time pressure
A truly quiet option: a private custom hike
For some travelers, even quieter named hikes can still feel limiting.
A private custom hike offers complete flexibility and the opportunity to tailor the day entirely to your wishes.
Depending on preferences and conditions, this can include:
hikes to mountain tops with outstanding views
easier walks through selected terrain
routes chosen specifically to avoid other hikers altogether
With local knowledge, the route is selected based on:
weather and trail conditions
fitness level and interests
the desire for privacy and silence
For guests who wish, it is entirely possible to spend the day completely alone in the landscape.
A custom hike isn’t about reaching a famous summit - it’s about experiencing Norway’s mountains on your own terms.
Choosing the right alternative to Pulpit Rock
The best alternative depends on what matters most to you.
Looking for dramatic views with fewer people? → choose a quieter peak
Want full flexibility and privacy? → choose a custom hike
Visiting Stavanger on a cruise with limited time? → avoid peak routes and fixed schedules
All of these options offer something Pulpit Rock often cannot: space, calm and freedom of movement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quiet Hiking Alternatives to Pulpit Rock
Below are clear, practical answers to the most common questions travelers ask when looking for calm, crowd-free hiking experiences near Stavanger.
Are there quieter alternatives to Pulpit Rock near Stavanger?
Yes. Several hikes near Stavanger offer fjord views comparable to Pulpit Rock but with far fewer visitors. Well-known alternatives include The Hat (Hatten), Reinaknuten, Ramnstoknuten, and alternative approaches to the Pulpit Rock plateau itself. These routes prioritise space, calm pacing, and a more personal nature experience.
Can I avoid crowds when hiking near Stavanger?
Yes. By choosing lesser-known routes, alternative access points, or hiking at quieter times of day, it is often possible to avoid crowds entirely. With local route knowledge, hikes can be planned specifically to minimise or eliminate encounters with other hikers - even during the high season.
Is it possible to join a private hike where we don’t meet other people?
Yes. On private custom hikes, routes are selected based on current conditions and your preference for solitude. In many cases, it is possible to spend the entire hike without encountering other people, while still hiking safely and responsibly.
Are these quieter hikes suitable for cruise guests visiting Stavanger for one day?
Yes. Several quiet hiking alternatives are well suited for cruise guests. Routes and pacing are adapted to fixed schedules, and pickup can be arranged close to the cruise terminal to ensure a relaxed experience with plenty of time to return before departure.
How difficult are these alternatives compared to Pulpit Rock?
Difficulty varies by route. Some alternatives are similar in effort to Pulpit Rock, while others are longer or more demanding. The hike is always adapted to your fitness level, hiking experience, and preferences, rather than following a fixed difficulty category.
Do quieter hikes near Stavanger require hiking experience?
No. Many guests are not experienced hikers. Route choice, terrain, distance, and pace are adapted to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Previous hiking experience is helpful but not required.
Are these hikes private, or will we join other groups?
All hikes with Stavanger Adventure are private. You will never be joined with other guests. This allows for flexible pacing, quiet moments, and a more personal connection with the landscape.
Can hikes be adapted for mixed fitness levels or families?
Yes. Many routes work well for mixed fitness levels, couples, and families. The focus is on choosing terrain and distance that allow everyone to enjoy the hike comfortably, without pressure to reach a specific summit.
How do guides avoid busy trails near Pulpit Rock?
Local knowledge is used to choose alternative routes, access points, and timing that avoid the busiest sections of popular trails. In some cases, entirely different areas are selected to prioritise calm and space.
What happens if weather conditions change during the hike?
If conditions change, the route is adjusted accordingly. This may include choosing more sheltered terrain, altering the plan, or turning back. Safety, comfort, and visibility are always prioritised over reaching a specific destination.
Can we choose a completely custom hiking route?
Yes. A private custom hike allows full flexibility in route choice, distance, terrain, and desired level of solitude. For guests who wish, the hike can be designed entirely around calm surroundings and minimal human presence.
Experience quiet hiking with a local guide
All hikes with Stavanger Adventure are private and adapted to your group.
The focus is on:
calm pacing
safety and comfort
choosing the right route for the day
Not sure which alternative is right for you?
Contact Stavanger Adventure, and I’ll help you choose the best hike based on your time, fitness level and weather conditions.
If you’d like a broader understanding of how hiking around Stavanger really works, you can explore The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Around Stavanger a complete overview covering seasons, conditions, experience levels, iconic routes, calm alternatives, and how to choose the right hike for the right day.
Calm. Personal. Real.
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