Activities
Hiking
Recommended Activities
****FALL HOURS FOR CLIMBING THE CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE ARE 10:00AM - 2:00PM DAILY THROUGH COLUMBUS DAY. THE LIGHTHOUSE CLOSES FOR THE SEASON ON OCTOBER 9, 2000****
A full schedule of interpretive activities are presented by park rangers throughout the summer season. These include a wide range of history, natural resource, and recreational programs. Check at a park Visitor Center for a current schedule, and a copy of "In the Park," an informational newspaper published each summer.
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the only lighthouse in the park open for climbing. It is generally open from 10:00AM until 4:00PM each day, from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends, depending on weather conditions. From September 4th through October 8th, the Lighthouse is open from 10:00AM - 2:00PM. The Lighthouse is closed for safety reasons whenever inclement weather approaches the area. CHILDREN MUST BE AT LEAST 38 INCHES TALL TO CLIMB THE TOWER AND MAY NOT BE CARRIED. Climbing the Lighthouse can be quite strenuous, especially on hot days. Visitors should consider their personal level of physical fitness before attempting this climb. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is 193 feet tall and visitors will climb 257 steps to reach the observation balcony. A spectacular 360-degree view of Cape Hatteras National Seashore awaits at the top.