Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Viewpoints

This iconic decommissioned lighthouse stands atop a massive slab of basalt rock 1.2 miles off the coast of Oregon.

The Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, also commonly known as "Terrible Tilly," is a landmark off the northern coast of Oregon. Standing at 62 feet atop a large slab of basalt rock that’s 1.2 miles offshore, this lighthouse was built in 1881 and was decommissioned in 1957. The lighthouse has a profound lore marked by relentless storms and treacherous seas, which made its construction and operation incredibly challenging.

The lighthouse's isolated location and brutal weather it endures have contributed to its legendary reputation. There are many iconic photos of massive waves crashing into the rock and framing the lighthouse in an almost unreal way. Terrible Tilly was initially designed to guide sailors safely past the dangerous Tillamook Head, but over the years, it has become a symbol of strength and perseverance. Since it was decommissioned in the 1950s, the lighthouse has taken on various roles, including a brief stint as a columbarium and home for sea lions and birds.

While the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse is inaccessible to the public today as it wouldn't be safe to get near or explore, it can still be admired from multiple viewpoints along the coast of Oregon. The sight of the lighthouse on the crest of the large rock truly evokes a sense of wonder and awe, and one can’t help but think about all the elements it has faced over the years and the history embedded in it. Terrible Tilly is anything but terrible, but her story is a remarkable one and worth exploring the next time you’re on the Oregon Coast.