Trail Ambassadors Returns to N. Oregon Coast, Needs Volunteers

Published 06/24/25 at 5:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Tillamook, Oregon) - Tillamook Coast Visitors Association (TCVA) and Trailkeepers of Oregon are partnering up to bring back an old and very welcome feature to the region. Together, they're restarting the Trail Ambassadors Program for summer 2025, and they are asking for volunteers to help out at trailheads around this section of the north Oregon coast.

Designed to support visitor education and trail stewardship, the program recruits local volunteers to serve as on-site guides at high-traffic trailheads, including Oswald West and Cape Lookout State Parks, Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City, the Old Growth Cedar Preserve in Rockaway Beach, and Kilchis Point Reserve in Bay City.

After a pause since 2019, it looks to help visitors hit these wonder-filled trails safely and responsibly, while also sharing insights into local history and natural features. Their presence aims to foster a culture of Leave No Trace practices and reduce strain on state and local agencies affected by ongoing budget constraints.

Dan Haag, TCVA Director of Trails, Outdoor Recreation and Accessibility, said this is a great opportunity for residents to share their love of trails and stewardship with others.

“Due to budget cuts at numerous government agencies, this volunteer work is now more important than ever,” he said.

The revitalized program also introduces the "Tillamook Coast Seven Principles of Leave No Trace," a region-specific adaptation created in partnership with the Leave No Trace organization. More information is available at https://tillamookcoast.com/leave-no-trace-tillamook.

At the trailheads, Haag said the guides will be imparting a few different things.

“Leave No Trace will be the biggie that we want to promote on our end,” Haag said. “We'll also have information available on wildlife interactions and who to report them to.”

The Trail Ambassadors program benefits trails and local Oregon coast economies by way of:

Increased respect and care for trails and natural resources.
Increased visitor satisfaction.
Reduction of resource strain on local and state agencies.
Increased traffic at local attractions and businesses.
Empowering communities to take action and ownership of their beloved natural spaces.

TKO will provide all necessary training, equipment, and support. Volunteers can select shifts online after completing orientation.

And there's a part here that involves some serious cuteness.

The program also includes a unique feature: Ambassador Dogs. These well-trained canine companions accompany their human counterparts, helping spark friendly trailhead conversations while promoting responsible pet etiquette.

Organizers highlight the broader impact of the program: healthier trails, happier visitors, and stronger connections between communities and their beloved outdoor spaces.

To learn more about being a Trail Ambassador and to sign up, visit www.trailkeepersoforegon.org/ambassadors/training. If you are curious about the program you can sign up to shadow a Lead Ambassador to learn more. Questions? E-mail dan@tillamookcoast.com.

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