News Summary
The Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head, NC, reopened for self-guided climbing on April 18, 2025. The climbing experience allows visitors to ascend 200 steps for stunning views. Tickets are available online at $10 for adults, while seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities can climb for $5. Climbing will be open daily until October 13, 2025, despite the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse remaining closed for restoration. Recently, a fire incident was reported at the keepers’ quarters, leading to its indefinite closure for repairs.
Nags Head, NC – Bodie Island Lighthouse Opens for Climbing
The Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head, North Carolina, opened for self-guided climbing on April 18, 2025, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the historic structure. Climbing will be available daily until October 13, 2025, allowing tourists to experience stunning views from atop the lighthouse.
Tickets for climbing the Bodie Island Lighthouse are exclusively available online and can be purchased starting at 7 a.m. on the day of climbing. Ticket prices are set at $10 for adults, while seniors aged 62 and older, children aged 11 and under, and individuals with disabilities can purchase tickets for $5.
Visitors prepared to tackle the climb will ascend a total of 200 steps, comparable to the height of a ten-story building. The staircase, designed for a challenging experience, features a handrail only on one side, includes nine landings, and is described as strenuous. The internal environment of the lighthouse may be dim, hot, humid, and noisy, as there is no air conditioning or elevator available.
To ensure safety, individuals with heart, respiratory, or other health issues are advised to approach the climb with caution due to the physical demands it presents.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Remains Closed
In contrast to the opening of the Bodie Island Lighthouse, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will remain closed this year as restoration efforts continue. While the specific timeframe for the lighthouse’s reopening is not yet determined, authorities are focused on preserving this significant historical site.
Safety Incident at Bodie Island Lighthouse
Recently, a fire occurred at the keepers’ quarters of the Bodie Island Lighthouse. The incident took place on a Tuesday around noon, prompting a response from several local fire departments. Fortunately, firefighters were able to extinguish the flames swiftly, and all occupants managed to evacuate safely, with no injuries reported.
As a precautionary measure, the keepers’ quarters have been closed indefinitely pending an investigation into the fire and necessary repairs. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is collaborating with the Nags Head Fire Department to conduct a thorough damage assessment and investigation of the incident.
Historic Background of Bodie Island Lighthouse
The Bodie Island Lighthouse has a rich history, first illuminated in October 1872, shortly after the completion of the keepers’ quarters. Over the years, the keepers’ quarters have undergone renovations, the most recent in 1992, and currently serve as a ranger office and visitor center for the lighthouse.
It should be noted that the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse is also closed for climbing, although its base is periodically open for viewing, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance from afar.
As the Bodie Island Lighthouse opens its doors for climbers, it stands as a testament to the maritime history of the Outer Banks while providing an exciting experience for those looking to enjoy breathtaking views from its summit.
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Additional Resources
- WITN: Bodie Island Lighthouse Opens Climbing Season
- Wikipedia: Bodie Island Lighthouse
- WAVY: Bodie Island Lighthouse Reopens for Climbing
- Google Search: Bodie Island Lighthouse
- The Coastland Times: Damage from Fire at Bodie Island
- Google Scholar: Bodie Island Lighthouse
- WRAL: Snow Blankets Outer Banks Bodie Island Lighthouse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lighthouse
- WBTV: Fire at Historic North Carolina Lighthouse
- Google News: Bodie Island Lightstation
