Trollpikken – hike to the most famous rock in Southern Norway

During a visit to Southern Norway, a hike to Trollpikken should definitely not be missed. This relatively short hike of approximately 4.5 kilometers (round trip) takes you through the rugged landscape of the Magma Geopark near Egersund, where millions of years old rocks have shaped the landscape. The route is not long, but features some steep climbs over rocky paths, so good hiking shoes are definitely recommended.

The goal of the hike is the remarkable rock formation Trollpikken – literally translated as the troll’s penis. The granite rock juts out at an angle from a larger rock mass and has been shaped by thousands of years of erosion. Due to its distinctive shape, Trollpikken has grown into one of the most famous natural attractions of Rogaland. In 2017, the rock was unfortunately deliberately broken down, but thanks to a large fundraising campaign and the efforts of volunteers, it could be returned to its original place shortly afterwards. Today, there is hardly any sign of the break.

The hike takes you through a typical Norwegian landscape of smooth rocks, heathlands, and small lakes. Along the way, you regularly have beautiful views of the rugged terrain of the UNESCO Global Geopark Magma, an area known worldwide for its remarkable geological history. The rocks, over 900 million years old, are among the oldest in Europe and give the landscape its characteristic appearance.

Once you arrive at Trollpikken, it's naturally time for a photo moment. The unique rock formation and the surrounding landscape make this a fun destination for young and old alike. Afterwards, you return via the same route back to the parking lot. Despite the short distance, it is a hike that will stay with you for a long time, thanks to the unique landscape and the remarkable story behind this extraordinary rock.

Practical information

• Start and endpoint: parking lot Trollpikken, Egersund (paid parking)
• Distance: 4.5 km (round trip)
• Duration: about 1½ to 2 hours
• Difficulty: average; some steep and rocky passages
• Notes: part of the UNESCO Magma Geopark and one of the most photographed natural phenomena in Southern Norway.