Exploring the Accessible Beauty of Tillamook Coast: A Travel Experience

Wheelchair users exploring accessible trails at Tillamook Forest Center, an accessible activity in Tillamook Coast
Accessible trails at Tillamook Forest Center

The Tillamook Coast in Oregon is often celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, with expansive beaches, lush forests, and a tranquil atmosphere that attracts visitors from all around. But for travelers with accessibility needs, the prospect of exploring such destinations can sometimes seem daunting. However, Dan and Rachel, an adventurous couple from Canada, found that the Tillamook Coast was not only accessible but also a delightful and enriching experience.

Watch Dan and Rachel's experience on Tillamook Coast

Two wheelchair users at Cape Meares in Tillamook Coast
Rachel and Dan enjoy views in Tillamook Coast

Meet Dan and Rachel

Dan and Rachel are an inspiring couple who have spent the last few years exploring the world together, overcoming the challenges that come with traveling as a wheelchair user. Dan, a freelance writer with a love for travel, and Rachel, who recently embraced a more adventurous side, have made it their mission to explore new destinations and share their experiences with others.

"We hadn't typically gone to smaller towns because those towns tended to be less accessible to us," Dan explained. "But we got here, and I think we just really enjoyed the small-town atmosphere. We loved the nature, the food was incredible, and everything was remarkably accessible for us. We were very surprised."

"We hadn't typically gone to smaller towns because those towns tended to be less accessible to us. But we got here, and I think we just really enjoyed the small-town atmosphere. We loved the nature, the food was incredible, and everything was remarkably accessible for us. We were very surprised." - Dan Di Poce, traveler to Tillamook Coast
Two wheelchair users enjoying the Garibaldi Maritime Museum in Garibaldi, Oregon - an accessible activity on the Tillamook Coast
Dan and Rachel at the Garibaldi Maritime Museum

Discovering Accessible Tillamook Coast

The Tillamook Coast offered Dan and Rachel a chance to experience a destination that was both picturesque and accessible. From the moment they arrived, they were struck by the natural beauty of the area. They explored the stunning beaches, the lush green forests, and the quaint coastal towns, all while enjoying the accessibility features that made their trip smooth and enjoyable.

One of the highlights of their trip was visiting the famous Tillamook Creamery. "Going to the Tillamook Creamery was my absolute favorite," Rachel shared. "Getting to taste all the different cheeses and ice cream was like a dream."

Beyond the Creamery, they were thrilled by the abundant wildlife in the area. "Seeing herds of elk, seals, deer, and so many birds was just amazing," Rachel said. "It's not something we normally see in Toronto."

Two wheelchair-users enjoying a guided tour of the Tillamook Creamery
Accessible guided tour of Tillamook Creamery
two wheelchair users exploring accessible pathways in Tillamook Coast
Accessible pathways in Tillamook Coast

Accessibility at its Best

One of the most significant aspects of their trip was how accessible they found the Tillamook Coast to be. "Everything was remarkably accessible for us," Dan mentioned. The couple appreciated that they didn’t have to spend hours searching for accessible facilities or worrying about how they would navigate the area. Instead, they could fully immerse themselves in the experience, from enjoying the local cuisine to exploring the natural attractions.

"Wheel the World was fantastic," Dan noted, highlighting how the travel agency facilitated their trip. "They helped us find accessible hotels, things to do, and restaurants. They really streamlined the whole experience for us."

Wheelchair users going down the accessible paved trail at Cape Meares Lighthouse
Cape Meares lighthouse, Tillamook Coast

Encouraging Others to Take the Leap

For those who might be hesitant to travel due to accessibility concerns, Dan and Rachel have a clear message: "Don't be afraid to travel. Do your best to get connected with a company like Wheel the World that can take care of the things that might be difficult for you. You won't regret it."

Rachel added, "You'll never know unless you take the leap. Once you start, I'm sure you'll never stop."

"You'll never know unless you take the leap. Once you start, I'm sure you'll never stop." - Rachel Dean, traveler to Tillamook Coast
Two wheelchair users enjoying their time in Tillamook Coast
Rachel and Dan "breaking" the rules...

A Memorable Experience

Despite the rainy weather they encountered during their trip, Dan and Rachel didn’t let it dampen their spirits. "You know a vacation is good when, even though it's pouring rain about 90% of the time, we're still laughing and having fun throughout the whole trip," Rachel said.

Their experience on the Tillamook Coast was not just about the beautiful scenery but also about the warmth and kindness of the locals. "The locals in Tillamook Coast have been so kind and friendly to us," Rachel shared. "They gave us great suggestions on places to travel to, accessibility tips, and we were so happy with all the locals we met here."

Local server helping two wheelchair users at an accessible restaurant in Tillamook Coast
Accessible restaurant in Tillamook Coast, where the local server provided helpful tips and suggestions about the area

Final Thoughts

For Dan and Rachel, the Tillamook Coast was a perfect blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and warm hospitality. It’s a destination that they highly recommend to other travelers, especially those who might be apprehensive about exploring new places due to accessibility needs.

As Rachel put it, "Tillamook Coast is a great destination to travel to, no matter what the weather is like. Whether it’s raining, sunny, or windy, you’ll find so many activities to enjoy."

Their journey is a testament to the fact that with the right planning and support, the world is full of accessible destinations just waiting to be explored.

Are you ready for a visit? We don't think you'll regret it.

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