Highland Lighthouse Tours in North Truro MA 2024
A visit to Cape Cod National Seashore isn’t complete until you’ve visited the historic Highland Light in North Truro. The 69-step climb up a narrow staircase rewards visitors with spectacular views of Cape Cod and beyond. On a clear day views extend more than 20 miles across the Atlantic Ocean and bay of Cape Cod. To ensure the safety of all visitors, the minimum height requirement to climb the lighthouse is 48″.
Are you heading to Truro soon?
We’ve put together a list of some of the things to do, places to visit, and where to eat!
History of the Lighthouse
Highland Light Station, also known as Cape Cod Light, is located on Outer Cape Cod within Cape Cod National Seashore in North Truro. Commissioned by George Washington and established in 1797 as the 20th light station in the United States, the original 45-foot tall wooden tower and keeper’s dwelling were built more than 500 feet from the edge of a 125-foot-tall clay cliff. A new brick lighthouse was erected near the original tower in 1831. The present 66-foot-tall brick light tower, keeper’s house, and generator shed replaced the previous structures in 1857. An enclosed walkway connects the tower and the one-and-one-half-story, L-shaped, Queen-Anne-style keeper’s dwelling.
Erosion of the steep cliff throughout the years brought the present light station around 100 feet from the cliff’s edge by the early 1990s. Using funds raised by the Truro Historical Society combined with state and Federal grants, Highland Light Station was successfully moved 450 feet back to safer ground. After the 18-day move, the light was relit on November 3, 1996, and is an active aid to navigation. Today, the keeper’s house features a gift shop and museum exhibits and a dedicated staff provides tours of the tower.
Plan your trip to the Highland Lighthouse in Truro what other families and visitors thought
Visited the charming little lighthouse for the first time and took the tour. It’s worth noting that there’s a height restriction for kids on the tour due to steep stairs, so if heights make you uneasy, it’s best to steer clear. However, the views from the top are breathtaking. Down at the bottom, there’s a delightful little shop and convenient restroom facilities. Overall, highly recommend it, but be mindful if you’re bringing smaller children as some may be disappointed by the height restrictions.
I initially questioned my decision to visit a lighthouse on a rainy day, but it turned out to be a fantastic choice! Apart from a short stroll to reach the lighthouse, the entire experience can be enjoyed indoors. Inside, there’s a quaint gift shop, and you can purchase tickets for a guided tour to ascend to the top. We made our way up to the highest point, which was fully enclosed and shielded from the weather. When we descended, the rain had paused, allowing us to venture out to the overlook area. Just a heads up for those with children: there’s a height requirement for climbing the lighthouse— I believe it’s 48 inches, but it’s wise to double-check before your visit. Having visited numerous lighthouses along the Cape, this one stood out as our favorite, even in the rain! Highly recommended.
Rescued from the brink of tumbling off the cliff, this lighthouse has a compelling story to tell! Inside the main house, a brief film offers insight into its dramatic rescue. Opting for the paid tour was a wise decision; the guides shared fascinating details about the lighthouse’s history and relocation process. And the panoramic views from the top? Absolutely breathtaking. Visiting this landmark was a highlight of our recent vacation in the area.
A delightful little stop indeed on our Cape Cod Vacation The guides here delve deep into the rich history surrounding the property, the lighthouse itself, and its remarkable relocation. Unlike some tours that merely rehash common lighthouse facts, this one offers a truly unique experience. Despite its modest height, the views from the top are splendid. The restoration efforts over the past few years have been commendable, and the climbing fee is reasonable. Just note that the restroom facilities are located at the parking area near the museum.
2024 Lighthouse tours
Tours will open in spring 2024~
Highland Lighthouse, 27 Highland Light Road, North Truro
