Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Guide
Terrible Tilly: A Glimpse into Oregon's Storm-Swept Past Guide
Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, often nicknamed "Terrible Tilly," is a legendary, albeit inaccessible, landmark just off the coast of Cannon Beach. While you can't visit the lighthouse itself, its imposing presence is visible from various vantage points along the coastline, serving as a stark reminder of the power of the Pacific Ocean and the challenges faced by those who once manned it. This solitary sentinel stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience in the face of nature's fury. The lighthouse was commissioned in 1880 after numerous shipwrecks plagued the Oregon coast. Construction was incredibly challenging, with workers battling treacherous waves and storms. Tragically, a surveyor was swept out to sea and drowned during the initial survey. The lighthouse operated from 1881 to 1957, enduring countless storms and earning its ominous nickname. Due to the extreme conditions and high maintenance costs, it was eventually decommissioned. In the 1980s, it was briefly used as a columbarium (a place for storing cremated remains), but that venture was short-lived. Today, it remains a silent, weather-beaten monument to a bygone era. While you can't physically visit Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, you can appreciate its history and beauty from afar. Head to Ecola State Park or various viewpoints along the Cannon Beach coastline for the best views. Learn about its fascinating history at the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum. Imagine the lives of the lighthouse keepers who braved the storms and isolation to keep ships safe. The lighthouse itself doesn't have any culinary traditions, but the surrounding coastal towns offer a wide array of seafood delicacies, reflecting the region's maritime heritage.
Transportation
Tillamook Rock Lighthouse is located offshore and is not accessible to the public. The best way to view it is from Ecola State Park or various points along the Cannon Beach coastline. To reach Ecola State Park, take Highway 101 north of Cannon Beach. Follow the signs to the park entrance. Parking is available for a fee.