Start the year off right by climbing to the top of the Cape Lookout lighthouse/Kurt Repanshek

Now here's a fun way to open the new year -- with a view from the top of the Cape Lookout National Seashore lighthouse.

In collaboration with events of the Crystal Coast Countdown, Cape Lookout Superintendent Pat Kenney is pleased to welcome the public to the first climb of the year on Friday, January 1, 2016.

Next year is an exciting year for Cape Lookout National Seashore, one of 409 National Park Service sites located across the United States and its territories. On March 10, 2016, the seashore on North Carolina's Outer Banks will celebrate its 50th Anniversary as a national park unit. Throughout 2016, the National Park Service will celebrate its Centennial with special events and activities that will take place at various times in the year.

Cape Lookout National Seashore will kick-off the Centennial year on New Year’s Day with the first climb of the year. With a lighthouse view, experience your favorite beach with stories of the light keepers, the lighthouse, and the natural barrier island in winter.

Reservations are required for the event. You can make one beginning on December 1 between 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. by calling Administrative Assistant Cathy Frazier at (252) 728-2250 x3020.

The cost of the program is $25 (price includes ferry fee) and is non-refundable (weather dependent). The program will accommodate 40 visitors. The ferry will depart Harkers Island at 10 a.m. and return at about noon. Children joining the climb must be at least 44-inches tall and must climb the steps on their own. Children 12 years of age and younger must be accompanied by an adult (16 or older).

Dress accordingly to weather conditions; Closed-toed shoes are required.