Climb Cape Cod’s oldest and tallest lighthouse, tour the Highland House Museum where Thoreau once stayed, and drive through Provincelands’ dune country on this two‑hour guided experience. Expect narrow stairs, strong coastal winds, and panoramic Atlantic views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the air‑conditioned van into cold Atlantic wind, the lighthouse a white column against a gray-blue horizon. Sand crunches underfoot on the approach; gulls wheel and the exposed beach grass leans like a living compass. From the base of Highland Light the spiral stairs climb tight and near—each landing offering a wider arc of Cape Cod’s ragged shoreline.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to climb narrow spiral stairs and walk short distances on uneven sand or boardwalks.
Wildlife
History
Highland Light began operation in 1797 and was physically moved inland in the 1990s to protect it from bluff erosion; the Highland House served early tourists and hosted Henry David Thoreau.
Conservation
The Provincelands dunes are ecologically fragile—stay on boardwalks, follow signage for nesting seasons, and avoid trampling dune vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring layered clothing
Outer Cape weather shifts quickly—windproof and a warm mid‑layer make the lighthouse summit comfortable.
Sturdy closed shoes
Stairs are steep and museum floors are historic—no flip‑flops allowed for climbing the tower.
Protect nesting birds
Stay on established paths and boardwalks in Provincelands to avoid disturbing piping plover habitat.
Timing for photos
Morning light is softer and winds often calmer; late afternoon provides warmer tones but gustier conditions at the summit.
Sturdy walking shoes
Closed, grippy shoes make climbing the lighthouse stairs and walking dunes safer.
Windproof jacket
Protects against strong onshore gusts at the tower and along exposed dunes.
Sunscreen and hat
Reflected sun off sand and water increases UV exposure during summer visits.
summer
Compact camera or phone
Wide coastal vistas and the historic interiors reward photographic documentation.