Lighthouse climbing season begins April 19

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse prior to its move in 1999. [NPS photo]

The Bodie Island and Cape Hatteras Lighthouses open for climbing Friday, April 19.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the remarkable move of the Cape Hatteras lighthouse from its spot on the beach to a safer home 2,900 feet away. The National Park Service will celebrate the “move of the century,” with daily interpretive programs on the epic journey the lighthouse made in the summer of 1999.

Meet seashore staff at the Hatteras Island Visitor Center Pavilion at 10:30 a.m. to hear the 20-minute program. The daily programs begin May 3 and continue through Oct. 14.

During the 23 days of the lighthouse move anniversary (June 17-July 9), additional interpretive programs and a special anniversary event will be held. More details to be announced soon.

During lighthouse climbing season, which continues through Oct. 14, ticket sales at each location begin daily at 9 a.m. with the last tickets sold at 4:30 p.m. Click here for more information on regular climbing ticket prices, rules and safety information. Climbs are free at both lighthouses for opening day on April 19.

This season’s full moon tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be offered on June 17, July 16, Aug. 15 and Sept. 14. Tickets for the full moon climbs can be purchased at www.recreation.gov starting at 10 a.m. three days prior to each tour date.

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