Wheeler, Oregon is located in Tillamook County on Highway 101 on the Northern Oregon Coast about 100 miles west of Portland. Take Highway 26 from Portland to Highway 101 and go south to Wheeler or turn left off Highway 26 onto Highway 53 and follow it to Highway 101 (19 miles), then turn south to Wheeler. See maps.

Wheeler is the quintessential tiny coastal village, spread out on a hillside along Highway 101, overlooking Nehalem Bay at the mouth of the Nehalem River. The bay is dotted with islands with an estuary that is home to a wide variety of birds (herons, egrets, cormorants, to name a few) and sea life. Unique shops, antique stores, fine food, comfortable lodging, an emphasis on the arts, excellent fishing and crabbing (boats and equipment rentals available), kayaking (explore the estuary) and inviting special events (Crab Feed, Salmon Fest, Mermaid Festival) make Wheeler a charming vacation location or stop along your way.

History

The success of the town was, in part, due to the railroad - mainly freight trains hauling lumber products from mills in Wheeler. By 1981, the Port of Tillamook Bay was operating the line from Tillamook to Wheeler and still does, providing short "Fun Run" trains from Garibaldi to Wheeler and the Nehalem Bay Winery in Mohler, as well as full- and half-day runs into the Salmonberry Canyon in the summer (BBQ train) and fall (Fall Foliage Runs in September, October and November).

In 1920, the Rinehart Arthritis Clinic opened in Wheeler and became quite well known. Now a general practice clinic serving the Nehalem Bay Area, the Rinehard Clinic is still a vital asset to Wheeler and the surrounding villages and is headed by Dr. Harry Rinehart, a third generation descendant of the founding Rinehart.

During the 70's, an economic downturn resulted in the closing of many large employing businesses in the area, and Wheeler's economy suffered as a result. In the early 1990's, residents of the area decided to revitalize their town. The Wheeler Business Association was organized and began to attract new employers and visitors. Wheeler changed into a vital, interesting place to live, work, pursue the arts and come for a visit.

Demographics