Have you ever seen the full moon from the top of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse?/NPS

Hear stories of keepers of old, view the working light up close, and catch a full moon’s reflection off the Atlantic Ocean from the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse balcony. This summer, rangers at Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina will lead Full Moon Tours up 257 steps to the lantern room for a unique nighttime experience.

Tickets are required and must be purchased in advance at www.recreation.gov, starting at 10 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time three days prior to each tour date. Tickets are $8 per adult, $4 for children (11 and under) and seniors (62 and older). The number of visitors on each tour is limited, and tours may be canceled if weather conditions are unsafe due to high winds, storms, or lightning in the area.

Full Moon Tours will take place on:

• May 21, 8 and 9 p.m.
• June 20, 8:30 and 9:30 p.m.
• July 19, 8:30 and 9:30 p.m.
• Aug. 18, 8 and 9 p.m.
• Sept. 16, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Prior to purchasing tickets, consider your own limitations and those of your group. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse has 257 steps from the ground to the balcony level – equal to climbing a 12-story building. The lighthouse is tall, dark, often hot and humid, and can be a challenge to climb. And you won't find air conditioning or internal lights.

Children joining the climb must be at least 42 inches tall and must climb the steps on their own – they cannot be carried. Keep in mind that some youngsters may not enjoy the dimly lit, sometimes claustrophobic environment. Children 11 and younger must be accompanied by an adult 16 or older.