The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will open to the public for climbing from April 16 through Columbus Day, October 11, 2010. Climbing fees for the Lighthouse will be $7 per adult, and $3.50 for children under 12 and senior citizens. The opening day of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will continue to be a “fee-free” day, as it has in the past, for local community members to climb the Lighthouse.
Climbing The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse – What to Know Before You Go
The 248 iron spiral stairs to the top is equivalent to climbing a 12-story building. The stairs have a handrail only on one side and a landing every 31 steps. Visitors with heart, respiratory or other medical conditions or who have trouble climbing stairs should use their own discretion as to whether to climb the tower.
Climbing tickets are available on a first-come/first-served basis and can only be purchased in person at the site on the day of the climb. There are no advance ticket sales.
Ticket sales begin at 8:15 a.m. Climbing tours will begin at 9 a.m. and will run every 10 minutes with a limit of 30 visitors per tour. Ticket sales close at 4:30 p.m. in the spring and fall, and at 5:30 p.m. beginning the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Ticket holders should arrive at the lighthouse gate five minutes prior to their ticketed tour time. The lighthouse may close at any time if weather conditions are unsafe