08/4/08

Favorite Local Experience

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Full Moon Tour
(From the eyes and heart of a “local resident”)

This adventure was something I have wanted to do for a long time and the opportunity came in June. The weather was just perfect, warm and with a gentle breeze. Our tickets were for the 8:30 tour, so it was dusk when we arrived. I really wanted the 9:30 (which was sold out); but I think the 8:30 was just as dramatic, if not more. The Park Ranger gave us a brief history of the lighthouse and with several interesting and humorous stories. With flashlights in hand and our small group (about 15 people), we started the climb of 257 stairs. The Ranger stopped at each landing (not only to rest) but with more information that was almost like being a “lighthousekeeper”. Approaching the lantern room, we were able to view the light up close and in motion and hear of the operation of the beacon, past and present. (An eye opening experience). Stepping out onto the balcony, the view was breath taking. The breeze increased but this was all a part of the climb to the top. Dusk was leaving and darkness approaching viewing the Villages of Hatteras, Frisco, Buxton and Avon. Spontaneous house lights appeared and nighttime was coming alive. Then, the moon appeared (bright orange at first) over the ocean which was, to me, almost like seeing the Grand Canyon for the 1st time. The full moon was brilliantly appearing and becoming a beautiful pale orange, then beige, then white. Stars accompanied the vastness of this breathtaking visual experience. It’s almost too hard to describe. Would I recommend this “moonwalk”?. Absolutely!! This breathtaking visual experience was almost too hard to describe and brought tears of wonder to my eyes. I didn’t want to leave and the decent was cautious but with a joyous experience that will be kept in my heart for a long time.

Information on The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Full Moon Tour

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