HIGHMOOR FULL MOON HIKE: 10&11 SEPT 2022
HIKE LEADER: Dave Sclanders
Report
by Lisa La Commare
Sometimes, an event presents itself which is so unique and memorable that it is indelibly imprinted on one’s mind.
The Highmoor Full Moon Night Hike was a personal and spiritual experience that transcended physical hiking and which fed, fulfilled and inspired the soul!
Eight brave hikers set up the highest tent camp in the Berg, and set off on Saturday mid-day along an unmarked and off the beaten track to explore deep valleys and a hidden waterfall, under the expert leadership of Dave Sclanders.
We were treated to spectacular views of our resting Giant, Champagne Castle, Monk’s Cowl, Cathkin and Gatberg!
Following an early dinner we set off again at 5.30pm in perfectly clear twilight, in search of the first glimpse of the full moon. We were accompanied to our path by several buck walking along the top of a nearby ridge, silhouetted against a pink-blue sunset sky.
Soon, an almost transparent large, white disc appeared on the horizon with its familiar grey markings.
Slowly, as if blushing under the stare of eight pair of amazed eyes, she turned into a large orange sphere and then brightened into a radiant white spotlight which lit the ground and cast long shadows of the intrepid hikers. Slowly, as if in competition, one by one the stars started appearing blinking, winking and pulsating and took their place in the night sky.
Soon the proud Scorpio, with its stinging tail, and the Southern Cross were clearly visible against the black sky. But the brightest of them all was a lone star which hung below the moon. Was it Venus, or the space station, or a satellite or a UFO – the speculation was rife. Research, post hike, revealed that on that date, at that time, Jupiter was clearly visible. What a special treat!
A 10km hike, in nothing but Moon light, overseen by a blanket of stars, touched by a warm berg breeze, surrounded by total silence, with the exception of the croaks of a few feisty bull-frogs in a nearby moon-lit dam, culminated in an introspection session, where the group dispersed into the night with their thoughts, contemplations, prayers, wishes and introspections.
Sunday morning, following a night of profoundly deep sleep, the group awoke to a magnificent red sun rise, and set off on a brisk and energetic 8km hike to the Plaque. Again, off the beaten track, Dave led us up a steep hill which led us to views of the magnificent Low Berg, and the High Berg in the distance. We were treated to some historical occurrences which occurred along some of the passes which we were viewing, by Dave. We were also graced by the presence of a pair of endangered Wattled Cranes, who also gave us a low, gentle and graceful fly-by. Cape vultures were on the hunt, circling high above, for some easy pickings and Sunday lunch.
Back at base camp, the tents were packed, stowed, secured and the happy group, now hiking friends, bid each other warm au revoir, and headed home.
What a unique and wonderful weekend! Thank you, Dave, for your guidance, leadership and enormous knowledge of hiking and of the Berg. We came away satisfied and more curious than ever to experience more such wonderful adventures.
