Climbing the Assateague Lighthouse

Climbing the Assateague Lighthouse

Guide to Climbing the Assateague Lighthouse

The Assateague Lighthouse is one of Chincoteague’s most iconic landmarks, standing at 142 feet tall with its striking red and white stripes. Located within the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, the lighthouse has guided mariners for over 150 years and remains an active navigational aid today.

Whether you’re visiting for the history, the challenge of the climb, or the breathtaking views, this guide will help you plan your visit.

Getting to the Lighthouse

• Location: Inside the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

• Parking: First lot on the right after entering the refuge

• Trail to Lighthouse: A ¼-mile wooded trail leads from the parking lot to the lighthouse. Bug spray is recommended as mosquitoes are common.

Hours & Admission

• Open Saturdays: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM (until Labor Day)

• Admission: Free, but donations are encouraged to support maintenance and restoration.

For the latest hours or additional information, call the Chincoteague Natural History Association (CNHA) at (757) 336-3696.

Climbing the Lighthouse

• Number of Steps: 175 to the top

• Difficulty: Moderate; requires stamina but is manageable for most visitors.

• Time to Climb: 5-10 minutes, plus time at the top to enjoy the view.

What to Expect on the Climb

• The staircase is narrow and steep but has a sturdy handrail.

• If others are coming up or down, use landings to wait your turn.

• The lighthouse keeper once had to climb these stairs every hour with two five-gallon cans of oil to keep the light burning—making your climb seem easy in comparison!

Safety Tips

• Wear proper footwear – Sneakers or stable shoes are recommended. Avoid heels or slippery sandals.

• Be cautious if afraid of heights – The top lookout offers stunning panoramic views but may feel high for some.

• Use the handrail – Especially when sharing the stairs with other visitors.

• Children should be supervised – They must be careful, hold onto the railing, and avoid running.

What You’ll See from the Top

After the climb, your reward is a spectacular panoramic view of:

• Assateague Island & Beach

• Chincoteague Island

• Chincoteague Bay

• The surrounding marshlands where you might spot ponies, birds, and other wildlife.

Who Operates the Lighthouse?

• Owned by: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

• Managed by: The Chincoteague Natural History Association (CNHA), which maintains the lighthouse and keeps it open to the public.

• Maintained for navigation by: The U.S. Coast Guard

Who Should & Shouldn’t Attempt the Climb?

Good for:

✔️ Visitors in moderate physical condition

✔️ History enthusiasts

✔️ Families with older children (6+ recommended)

✔️ Those seeking a unique adventure & great photo opportunities

Not recommended for:

❌ People with heart conditions, knee problems, or breathing difficulties

❌ Anyone who struggles with heights or enclosed spaces

❌ Very young children who may not be able to hold onto the railing safely

❌ Individuals requiring wheelchair or mobility assistance (not handicap-accessible)

What to Bring

• Camera – The views are worth capturing!

• Bug spray – Especially for the short walk through the woods.

• Comfortable clothing & shoes – Avoid flip-flops or unstable footwear.

• Donation money – Help support the lighthouse’s preservation.

Final Thoughts

Climbing the Assateague Lighthouse is a must-do when visiting Chincoteague! Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the combination of history, challenge, and breathtaking views makes it an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy the climb, take in the views, and appreciate this historic lighthouse’s role in keeping sailors safe for generations.

Happy exploring!