Contact information
E-mail kjerag@lysefjorden365.no
Phone (+47) 40 30 68 65
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Kjerag
Is Kjerag a difficult hike?
Yes. The hike to Kjerag is considered challenging.
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Distance: 11 km round trip
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Elevation gain: about 750 metres
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Terrain: steep ascents, exposed sections, and rocky ground
Previous mountain hiking experience is strongly recommended. Many hikers still enjoy walking only part of the trail to reach viewpoints over the Lysefjord.
If conditions feel too demanding or the weather deteriorates, turn around in time. Always wear sturdy hiking boots and bring windproof and waterproof clothing.
How long does the hike to Kjerag take?
Most hikers spend 6–8 hours round-trip, depending on fitness, weather conditions, crowd levels, and how long they stop along the way.
You should always allow extra time and plan to return well before darkness.
How far is the hike to Kjerag?
The total hiking distance is approximately 11 kilometres round trip from Kjerag Parking.
What is the elevation gain on the Kjerag hike?
The hike involves a total elevation gain of around 750 metres, spread over several steep ascents and descents.
What should I wear and pack for hiking Kjerag?
You should wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip and bring:
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Windproof and waterproof jacket
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Warm layers (even in summer)
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Enough water and food
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Gloves and hat in colder or windy conditions
Weather can change quickly, and proper clothing is essential for safety.
Is the trail marked, and do I need a guide?
The trail is clearly marked, and most visitors hike without a guide during the main season.
However, the terrain is demanding, and mountain hiking experience is strongly recommended.
In poor weather or if you lack experience, hiring a guide is advisable.
Is Kjerag suitable for people with fear of heights?
Parts of the trail run close to steep cliffs, and the Kjerag Boulder itself is extremely exposed.
If you have fear of heights or vertigo, Kjerag may be uncomfortable or unsuitable, and you should consider turning back before exposed sections.
Is it dangerous to stand on the boulder?
Standing on Kjerag Boulder involves significant risk and is entirely your own decision and responsibility.
A fall from the boulder would be fatal.
As far as we know, no one has ever fallen off the boulder, likely because the risk is obvious and most visitors act cautiously. About 45% of hikers choose not to step onto the boulder, which is completely normal and respected.
You should not step onto the boulder if:
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You have vertigo or fear of heights
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The rock is wet, icy, or slippery
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It is windy or gusty
Never run, jump, or rush on or off the boulder. If you feel uncomfortable or start to panic, stay calm and return carefully.
Can I bring children on the hike to Kjerag?
Parts of the trail run alongside steep cliffs, and the hike is physically demanding.
We generally do not recommend hiking with children under 8 years old. Children should be used to steep terrain and able to walk independently. Carrying children in carriers is discouraged, as they cool down quickly and increase risk.
Be prepared to turn around if conditions or energy levels require it.
Can I take a dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
There are sheep grazing in the area, and some hikers may be uncomfortable around dogs. Only bring your dog if it is fit and accustomed to long mountain hikes.
Can I hike Kjerag in the rain?
Hiking in the rain is generally possible, but the trail becomes more slippery.
You should reconsider your hike if there are weather warnings, heavy fog, or strong winds.
Always check the weather forecast (YR.no) and follow the advice given by staff on site.
When is the best time of year to hike Kjerag?
The hiking season is from May to October, when the road is open and snow conditions are usually manageable.
Early and late in the season, snow may still cover parts of the trail.
Can I hike Kjerag in winter?
No.
When the road is closed, Kjerag is not accessible, and the trail and boulder are buried under snow.
How early should I start the hike?
You should start early in the morning, especially during peak season or in unstable weather.
Always plan to return with a comfortable margin before darkness or deteriorating conditions. If you are starting your day in Stavanger, please note that driving to Kjerag Parking takes approximately 2.5 hours.
What should I do in an emergency on the trail?
In an emergency, call:
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113 for medical emergencies
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112 for police
Stay where you are if possible, keep warm, and provide clear information about your location and situation.
Rescue operations in this area can take several hours due to the challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions.
Is there mobile phone coverage on the Kjerag hike?
Mobile phone coverage is limited and unreliable in parts of the Kjerag area, especially around Kjeragbolten and in the valleys between the hills.
Are rescue services available at Kjerag?
Yes, but rescues in this area are complex and weather-dependent.
Helicopter rescue may be delayed or impossible due to wind, fog, or poor visibility. Proper preparation and conservative decision-making are essential.
Can I still hike Kjerag when the roads from Sirdal and Lysebotn are closed?
No.
When the road to Kjerag is closed (usually November to mid-May), Kjerag is not accessible.
During winter, the road is buried under several metres of snow. The parking area, trail, and boulder are also covered and extremely dangerous. Even if you reach Lysebotn by ferry, the road to Kjerag Parking remains inaccessible.
Updates are published on our website and Facebook page.
Can I fly a drone at Kjerag?
No.
Kjerag is located within the Frafjordheiane Protected Landscape Area, and all drone use is strictly prohibited.
Are there toilets along the Kjerag trail?
No.
Toilets are available only at Kjerag Parking. There are no facilities along the trail.
Is there food or drinking water at Kjerag Parking?
Kjerag Parking offers toilets and basic visitor facilities during the season.
There is no food or drinking water available along the trail, so you must bring everything you need.
What are the opening hours of Kjerag Parking?
Kjerag Parking is open 24/7 from mid-May until the end of October, allowing you to arrive and leave whenever you like. The tourist information office is staffed during the day, with hours starting at 7:30 am in high season and from 8 or 9 am in the shoulder seasons. The parking area is staffed until 8 pm in the high season, and until 7, 6, or 5 pm in the shoulder seasons.
If you have an emergency outside of staffed hours, you can reach us at (+47) 40 30 68 65 until 11 pm. Please note that camping or sleeping in vehicles or tents at or near Kjerag Parking is not allowed. Inspections are conducted outside of staff hours.
What are the parking prices at Kjerag for different vehicles?
Parking prices at Kjerag are NOK 300 for cars, NOK 100 for motorcycles, and NOK 1,000 for buses. Bicycles park for free. For short stays, parking for less than 2 hours costs NOK 40 for cars and motorcycles.
Why does Kjerag Parking cost so much?
Kjerag is managed by Lysefjorden Utvikling, a non-profit organisation responsible for maintaining parking, trails, and visitor facilities.
The parking fee covers:
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Trail and area maintenance
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Toilets, water, sewage, and waste management
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Staffing, safety, and visitor information services
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Operation in a remote mountain location
All revenue is reinvested locally to maintain safety and quality.
Can I leave my car longer than one day at Kjerag Parking?
Yes. If you are hiking along the Lysefjord for several days, you may leave your car at Kjerag Parking.
Please inform the staff upon arrival and let them know when you expect to return.
You will only be charged one day of parking.
Sleeping or camping in your vehicle is not allowed.
Can I camp / stay overnight at Kjerag Parking?
No.
Camping or sleeping in vehicles or tents is strictly prohibited at Kjerag Parking, which is intended for day hikers only.
For camping, please use the designated campsite in Lysebotn. Parking rules are enforced for safety and hygiene reasons.
Is there EV charging at Kjerag Parking?
No, if you are driving an EV it is highly recommended to start your day with a fully charged battery. The nearest charging stations are in Sirdal.
about us
Lysefjorden utvikling as
Lysefjorden Utvikling AS is responsible for operating Kjerag Parking.
The Lysefjord is an important destination for the whole region, and that is precisely why Lysefjorden Utvikling AS (Lysefjord Development) was established by Rogaland County Council and a number of municipalities around the Lysefjord. Lysefjorden Utvikling AS will participate in the development of the tourism industry in and around the Lysefjord and has its main task within infrastructure, business development and hosting.
Our job
Lysefjorden Utvikling is set to participate in the development of the tourism industry in and around Lysefjorden, with its primary tasks being infrastructure, business development, and hosting.
To achieve the vision of a vibrant fjord, and to work in line with the values of a “sustainable destination,” we use visitor management as a method. For us, this means working to attract exactly those guests we want, at the right place, at the right time, in the right amount, and who behave responsibly. At the same time, we aim to ensure the best experience for the guests, avoid damaging nature, and create ripple effects that benefit the local community.
Our visitor management is knowledge-based. Lysefjorden Utvikling regularly conducts surveys among guests, tourism operators, local residents, and cabin owners.
The Lysefjord – a sustainable destination?
The Lysefjord is part of the sustainable destination scheme, which means that in the development work we take great responsibility for protecting nature, culture, and the environment. We will develop the Lysefjord as a positive asset for the local community and create a long-term profitable industry. The basis for everything we do is to create good experiences for those who visit the destination as well as those who live in the area. New technology and new solutions that support this work will be given priority.
Visiting Numbers Kjerag