Discover Where ‘Virgin River’ Is Filmed: Best Time to Visit, Wildlife, and More!

Virgin River is a popular drama series set in the most beautiful location. Most folks believe it is shot in northern California, but that’s not true.

The series is shot in the spectacular scenery of Vancouver and surrounding areas in British Columbia. Virgin River follows the story of Mel as she relocates to a small and tranquil town. She intends to live and work in the area as she heals after pain and disappointment.

This show also features her love interest Jack who owns a local bar in the area. Visitors who wonder where the show is shot will have the best time learning all about the best sights in and around Vancouver. Plus, there is much to do and see during high-peak summer and the rest of the seasons.

Where is Virgin River Filmed?

Stories about love and learning important life lessons are popular, like the amazing ‘Virgin River’ show that took the airwaves by storm. To be precise, this is a story shot in Vancouver and surrounding areas in British Columbia.

The show was shot in areas with astounding natural beauty and spectacular views. This area overlooks the Squamish River, where folks head to spot eagles. Filming also takes place south of the area in the town of Squamish.

The unforgettable cast of ‘Virgin River’ keeps viewers entertained, and the area is also a more significant attraction. This location features a quiet woodland full of pine forests and wild animals. There are also log cabins and rivers that add to its attractiveness.

Despite the show being shot in Vancouver, it depicts life in northern California. The show tells of the life of Mel (Melinda Monroe), who answers an ad and relocates to the town called Virgin River. The town is fictional.

She heads there to work as a nurse practitioner and midwife and start her life afresh. Mel has many painful memories, including losing her stillborn baby. Later, her husband got into a horrible car accident.

Mel pictures Virgin River as the perfect town away from everything and everyone where she could heal. Her goal was to heal first before moving ahead with her life. However, she meets Jack, starting a new chapter in her life.

The show follows their love story and even glimpses into Jack’s back story. Jack owns a bar in Brackendale, a quiet and beautiful town.

Where is Jack’s Bar in Virgin River Filmed?

Jack’s Bar is one of the most famous places in the Virgin River. The scene is set at Watershed Grill in Brackendale, north of Squamish town center.

Most of the interior is a studio production, but this spectacular spot’s surroundings are the same.

Where is the Show, ‘Virgin River’ Located on a Map?

Although the show is set in California, filming actually takes place in and around Vancouver, British Columbia, in Canada. Some of the scenes are shot in and around the town of Squamish, which lies north of Vancouver. British Columbia, Canada’s westernmost province, is bordered by the state of Washington on the south, and the Pacific Ocean on the west. Seatle, Washington is right across the border from Vancouver. The map below shows where the town of Squamish is situated:

What is the Best Time to Visit North Vancouver?

Folks who love ‘Virgin River’ always enjoy the amazing landscape and views from the show. Suppose you want to tour the area where the show was shot, Vancouver; what is the best time to visit?

Vancouver, as a whole, is perfect during summer. So, ensure you make your plans around this time of the year. Some folks do enjoy winter travel. However, be ready for extreme winter weather when visiting the area.

Summers are perfect since you can spend loads of time enjoying the magnificent views of the area. After summer, fall is next, and so is the rain. The rainy season begins in September, making travel in the area difficult.

However, there is much to enjoy in Vancouver during the fall. The leaves start to change color, and the views are breathtaking. On a good fall day, be ready for the most magnificent sights around the forests where color comes alive. But it’s best to bring a jacket and boots to protect yourself from rain and mud.

What Are the Top Attractions in and Around Vancouver, British Columbia?

Now that you know the best time to visit Vancouver, it’s time to plan the trip. Once there, you can visit many amazing sights that make this area popular.

There are so many things to do and places to visit in summer. Below are some to consider adding to your itinerary.

1. Hike Grouse Mountain

Each year, over one million people visit Grouse Mountain, a top attraction in Vancouver. This is the ‘Peak of Vancouver,’ which offers visitors loads to do and see. And the best part is the mountain is open to visitors during all seasons.

During summer, expect to meet many other visitors when touring Grouse Mountain. This is when favorable weather and hiking trails are easily accessible. Other fantastic summertime activities on Grouse Mountain include zip lining, chairlift rides, a tree canopy for kids, and mountain rope climbing.

Grouse Mountain has an elevation of 4100 feet, and there are loads to do during winter. The mountain is popular for winter activities such as skiing. Many resorts in the area offer accommodations and restaurants with a wide range of cuisine.

2. Tour Capilano Canyon

When you tour Vancouver and its surroundings in British Columbia, there’s so much nature and scenery. At the top of your list of places to visit, add a tour of Capilano Canyon. This is one of the four most-visited canyons in Vancouver and a must-see for visitors.

A majestic rainforest surrounds Capilano Canyon and features water cutting through the rock. Suppose a canyon tour sounds fun head to Capilano River Regional Park. Hike from the park entrance, and you’ll be in for a treat.

Accessing the Capilano Canyon from the Cleveland Dam is also possible when hiking. This is off the Capilano Road. You can view the dam and Grouse Mountain as you head to the Canyon. A trail leads from the dam uphill to a level area with an access gate to the forest.

3. Explore Mount Seymour Provincial Park

Locals and visitors will also love exploring Mount Seymore Provincial Park and hiking up the mountain. Drive for only 30 minutes from Vancouver and enjoy amazing viewpoints that showcase the best of this region.

Always park well for the hike up this mountainous and rugged terrain. Camping is allowed. However, consult on the rules and regulations of the park. The park has suitable visitor facilities, including picnic areas, bathrooms, and a campfire.

You can plan to host a picnic in the park besides hiking. The area is also suitable for swimming, fishing, cycling, and horseback riding.

There are lots of animals and bird life in the provincial park. You may find deer, coyotes, black bears, cougars, bobcats, Canada Jay, grouse, chickadee, and many more.

4. Walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Are you ready to walk a suspension bridge and take in breathtaking views? Well, head to Vancouver, especially during summer, and walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge. This is one of the most popular attractions in the area that receives millions of visitors each year.

The wobbly suspension bridge is in Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. It stretches 450 feet from end to end. This bridge is also set 230 feet above the Capilano River. Book your ticket if you plan to walk the bridge once you enter the park, and seek guidance.

Since the Covid 19 pandemic, the park officers have set up a one-way walk to cross the bridge. This does create wait time at the start of the bridge, but there’s less congestion, especially during peak season.

This magnificent bridge rests above an epic rainforest. You have to walk to the designated starting point following marked walkways and paths in the park. An adult must accompany kids below 17 years. Dogs are permitted in the park, but they must be on a leash and well-behaved.

5. Swim at Lynn Canyon Park

The biggest attractions outside Vancouver, the location for Virgin River, revolve around spending time outside. Another amazing place to tour and enjoy a dip in Lynn Canyon Park. Here, you can also take a walk on another suspension bridge over the most spectacular Canyon.

Lynn Canyon Park has numerous hiking trails that are quite fun to explore, especially during summer. There are 614 acres of forest cover to explore and a 30-foot pool open to visitors. Enjoy swimming in the clear waters surrounded by magnificent nature.

6. Experience TransLink Seabus

When visiting Vancouver, prepare for a wonderful experience on the TransitLink Seabus. This is part of the public transport system in the area and the most ideal for enjoying spectacular views. The Seabus access the north shore, where you can take in the sights of the Vancouver skyline.

Once you ride the Seabus, enjoy viewing the Lions Gate Bridge, the harbor, and Stanley Park. The ride lasts half an hour from the waterfront station and is an excellent experience for every person. Sit next to the windows for the most breathtaking views.

You can see the departure time from the station and plan your ride. It’s a simple and easy process to access the Seabus and take lots of pics once on it. The boat may not have an open deck area, but the windows are large enough for amazing viewing.

What Animals Are in Vancouver and Its Surroundings?

The rainforest landscape of Vancouver is home to numerous animal species. Many live in different parks, including Mount Seymour Provincial Park and Capilano River Regional Park. While hiking or touring the different parks, look for animals and bird species.

This area is home to top predators such as the black bear, bobcat, cougar, polar bear, coyote, and grey wolf. Other animal species include elk and deer. Marine mammals such as whales, harbor seals, and sea lions also exist.

The area has bird species like the cardinals, cranes, Horned Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pileated Woodpecker, Osprey, Belted Kingfisher, Bald Eagle, and California Quail.

Is Vancouver a Good Place to Live?

Perhaps you head to Vancouver and its surrounding parts to explore and fall in love with the magnificent views. It’s easy to start thinking about moving to the area and enjoying the same magnificence seen on the Virgin River.

However, knowing more about the area is good before you pack up and leave. For example, are Vancouver and British Columbia good places to live?

The easy answer is yes. This is one best and safest places to live and work. Not only that, but it’s also the most beautiful, and it provides an excellent quality of life. There is so much to do, especially when you love spending time in the great outdoors.

On top of that, you can easily access quality facilities in the area. Schools and health facilities cater to the locals’ needs. They also have parks, restaurants, and community centers. Living near the cities means you have folks around and won’t be too isolated.

However, you can move further away if you crave an isolated and quieter lifestyle. This area has a rich and diverse culture; many events occur annually.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Engel Ching/Shutterstock.com