Highland Light: Cape Cod's Tallest & Oldest Beacon
QUICK FACTS
📍 Location: 27 Highland Light Road, North Truro, MA 02652
🎟️ Admission: $8 adults, $5 children (6-12), Under 6 free
⏰ Season: May 2 - October 31, 2025, 9 AM - 5 PM, last tour 4:30 PM
🚗 Parking: FREE parking available
📏 Height: 66 feet tall - tallest lighthouse on Cape Cod
⭐ Must-See Rating: 5/5 - Historic and panoramic views
WHAT MAKES HIGHLAND LIGHT SPECIAL
Commissioned by George Washington and established in 1797 as the 20th light station in the United States, Highland Light stands as Cape Cod's most historically significant lighthouse. The current tower was erected in 1857, replacing two earlier towers that had been built in 1797 and 1831.
Rising majestically 183 feet above sea level on dramatic clay cliffs, Highland Light offers the most spectacular panoramic views of any Cape Cod lighthouse. On clear days, visitors can see from Provincetown to Wellfleet, with whales often visible offshore during migration seasons.
The lighthouse's brilliant white tower with black lantern room creates a striking contrast against the red clay cliffs of the Outer Cape. The present 66-foot-tall brick light tower, keeper's house, and generator shed replaced the previous structures in 1857.
FASCINATING HISTORY
Highland Light holds the distinction of being the first lighthouse on Cape Cod and was personally authorized by President George Washington. 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.
The lighthouse faced its greatest challenge in 1996 when coastal erosion threatened its foundation. In a remarkable engineering feat, the entire lighthouse was moved 450 feet inland, preserving this national treasure for future generations.
Famous artist Edward Hopper painted several works here, and the Highland House Museum next door showcases his Cape Cod connections along with maritime artifacts and local history.
GETTING THERE & PARKING
From Route 6: Take Exit 7 (Route 6A) toward North Truro. Turn right on Route 6A, then left on Highland Light Road. Follow signs to lighthouse.
Parking: Large FREE parking lot accommodates 100+ vehicles. Rarely fills completely but arrive early during peak summer weekends.
TOURS & VISITING
Lighthouse Tours: Climb 69 steps to the top with volunteer guides sharing historical stories. Open daily May 2 through October 31, 2025, from 9 am to 5 pm, with the last tour at 4:30 pm.
What You'll Experience: The climb is steep but manageable for most visitors. At the top, you'll experience 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod Bay, and the dramatic Outer Cape landscape.
BEST TIMES TO VISIT
- Early Morning (9:00-10:00 AM): Best lighting for photography, fewer crowds
- Late Afternoon (3:00-4:30 PM): Golden hour lighting, last chance for tours
- Fall (September-October): Comfortable temperatures, beautiful lighting, fewer visitors
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
- Highland House Museum (adjacent): Edward Hopper exhibits and local maritime history
- Head of the Meadow Beach (2 miles): Pristine National Seashore beach
- Pilgrim Heights Area (3 miles): Hiking trails and Pilgrim history
