Atop Montauk Point Light

Montauk, NY

While visiting the Montauk Point Lighthouse, I took the opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse.  It is not a climb for the faint of heart.  One has to climb a rather narrow spiral stair case within the lighthouse.  There is a rope railing along the wall along the outside of the spiral stairs, but we were told that those coming down the stairs had the right of way, so those of us climbing had to let go of the rope and move to the center of the stairs to allow those descending to proceed.  Not only are the steps themselves narrow towards the center, but there is no railing. It was a rather harrowing experience to say the least.  About half way up, I was having second thoughts about going all the way up, but I continued on.  Once I reached the uppermost level, I was treated to these great views.  One could step outside the lighthouse on a narrow balcony and feel the cool ocean breezes and admire the views.  It was well worth the climb.