YARMOUTH, N.S. — Visitors to the Cape Forchu Lighthouse in Yarmouth County will be able to book a new experience online before they arrive this season.
For a nominal fee, they will be able to climb the spiral stairs inside the lighthouse to the top of the tower to take in the spectacular views.
The popular tourist attraction, which stands 125 feet above sea level and has a unique apple core shape, was built in 1962 to replace the original lighthouse that began operation in 1839.
The Cape Forchu lighthouse site is tentatively set to open in May. Visitors who have not been able to book the climb online will be able to participate if space is available. A maximum of four people can take the tour at one time with the guide, and a waiver must be signed prior to the climb.
As of early March the fee had not yet been determined. Those who were invited for a "soft launch" of the experience in late February are being asked to fill in a feedback form with suggestions. Summer staff is being trained to guide the experience. Site manager Jennifer Wilkins says they are expecting to take people up hourly.
"If you have any issue that would prevent you from climbing up and down on your own, it's best not to try it," she says. "There is also a weight limit of 250 pounds (per person)."
No other lighthouse in Nova Scotia officially provides the Climb the Light experience, adds Wilkins.
The Climb the Light experience is the first item on a six-phase $4-million comprehensive master plan for Cape Forchu that was approved by the Municipality of Yarmouth – the owners of the property – last year.
Read More: Masterplan for Cape Forchu a guide for $4 million improvements in future at Yarmouth County location
Other items in the plan include the construction of a look-off atop the fog alarm building, a salt marsh in the centre of the Leif Erikson trail to attract migratory birds and other waterfowl; a rocky ridge walk to connect the lightstation directly with Leif Erikson Park; an expanded parking lot, new restaurant and gift shop (leased to private operators); an immersive experience in the lightkeepers house and more.
