Today’s Friday Photo comes from Preikestolen, Norway also known as the Preacher’s Pulpit. This incredible rock formation overlooks the Lysefjorden and consists of a rock outcropping which is about 82 feet by 82 feet and projects out into empty space over the fjord. As you can see from today’s photo the view down is pretty stunning. What you’re looking at is about 1,982 feet of fresh Norwegian air between the ledge, my boots and the fjord below. Due to the nearly square nature of the pulpit and the sturdy nature of the rock which forms it, most visitors pause to look over the edge before dangling their toes out into empty space. As someone who isn’t a huge fan of heights it definitely pushed my comfort zone but was a wonderful experience, and one that helped me partially overcome my fear of heights. There are no guide rails, ropes, or other safety devices in place.
To reach Preikestolen there’s a semi-rugged 3.8km hike which climbs about 1,000 feet. However, the path tends to rise and fall several times as you hike along ridges and past a number of small lakes. While parts of the path are very easy and well maintained others tend to be pretty steep and be made largely of small boulders. If you find yourself in Norway, I highly suggest making the trip. The closest major city is Stavanger, located in the South West of Norway.
Remember you can see Friday Photos from previous weeks here.