See the lake in a whole new light with Moonlight on the Murray

Moonlight has a way of illuminating familiar territory in an unfamiliar way.

Saluda Shoals Park offers an opportunity to see Lake Murray by a near full moon on Moonlight on the Murray. It’s a chance to paddle in a canoe or kayak while the sun sets and the moon rises.

“It is a beautiful, relaxing way to end the day,” said Bryan Senn, a park ranger at Saluda Shoals. “These are some of the most amazing sunsets you’ll ever see.”

It’s an easy, leisurely trip suitable for inexperienced paddlers. Even those experienced with canoes and kayaks will enjoy being able to see the lake illuminated by moonlight.

“Even those familiar with the lake, at night it’s a different experience,” Senn said.

The group will gather at Saluda Shoals Park at 7 p.m., then take vans to Jake’s Landing where the paddle will begin. The trip will last until about 8:45 p.m., then everyone will return to Saluda Shoals Park.

April’s full moon, known as the Pink Moon, is actually Friday but it will look full on Thursday and Saturday as well, according to space.com.

Saluda Shoals Park has other Moonlight on the Murray trips planned this summer on May 21, June 19, July 18, Aug. 17 and Sept. 15, all either during or adjacent to a full moon. Trip times vary.

The trip costs $30 and includes all equipment, including kayaks or canoes, life jackets and paddles. Space is limited. Register by calling (803) 213-2054 or at www.icrc.net/canoe kayak.

Lezlie Patterson, Special to The State

This story was originally published April 20, 2016 at 9:43 AM with the headline "See the lake in a whole new light with Moonlight on the Murray."