The show’s location expert opens up about filming in British Columbia, transporting gear via gondola, and the unexpected issues with Mel’s iconic cabin.
Virgin River offers more than just heartfelt drama and tangled romances—it also treats viewers to a feast for the eyes. From sweeping forests and waterfalls to cozy cabins and misty mountaintops, the natural beauty is so prominent it feels like another character in the story. The setting isn’t just background; it’s woven into the DNA of the show.
While the fictional town of Virgin River is supposed to be nestled in Northern California, most of the series is actually filmed in and around Vancouver, British Columbia. The stunning outdoor scenery and versatile terrain make it an ideal stand-in for the picturesque small-town vibes the show is known for.
The man responsible for scouting these jaw-dropping locations is W. Robert “Fluffy” Millar, LMGI, a veteran location manager who’s worked in the industry since 1997. His impressive credits include A Dog’s Way Home, Shooter, and the Fifty Shades of Grey series—all also shot in Vancouver.
“I’m constantly snapping photos,” Millar shared during a 2022 visit to the Virgin River set. “Thanks to GPS tagging, if I spot a great location—say, near Vernon or the Okanagan—I can return to it even a year later.”
While working on Season 5, Millar spoke about British Columbia’s natural riches, the challenge of filming on steep terrain, and the day the crew discovered that Mel’s beloved cabin, seen from Season 1 onward, was slowly sinking into the earth.
What’s It Like Scouting Locations for a Show Like Virgin River?
It’s a series full of beautiful people in emotional turmoil, all set against stunning backdrops. Millar says he’s always striving to top the previous episode’s scenery—finding even more breathtaking viewpoints or another dense, accessible patch of forest. Working in B.C. is a major advantage.
He also emphasized the show’s close relationship with the First Nations, especially the Squamish Nation, as many scenes are filmed on their land. “They’ve been really supportive of us,” Millar said. “The show promotes a positive message, and that’s helped us build strong partnerships.”
Behind the Scenes: How Locations Are Found
While Millar scouts personally, much of the work is handled by Sarah Whitlam, a dedicated location scout and photographer whose in-depth knowledge of the Lower Mainland—ranging from city streets to ski resorts—is a huge asset.
The process begins with the script. “We match each scene with as many real-world options as we can,” Millar explained. It’s a creative job, requiring an eye for places that deliver both natural beauty and story relevance—especially the rivers, woods, and mountain views that define Virgin River.
How Specific Are the Creative Requests?
According to Millar, there’s no direct ask to evoke certain emotions through scenery. That’s the actors’ job. However, the locations must support those emotions—places that are visually so compelling they might momentarily steal the viewer’s attention.
“It’s not just about tall trees,” he said. “It’s about capturing raw, powerful beauty—those spots where someone might pause and say, ‘Where is that incredible waterfall?’”
Toughest Location? The Lumberjack Games on a Mountain
One of the most challenging scenes to coordinate was in Season 3 during the Lumberjack Games episode, filmed at Grouse Mountain. Shooting took place mid-pandemic, when ski resorts and public events were shut down. Fortunately, the local producer of the real-life lumberjack games was available and brought in a team of trained stunt performers.
All the gear had to be transported up the mountain using gondolas—an enormous logistical feat.
Did It Go Smoothly Once You Were There?
Not exactly. A strong windstorm hit just before filming, destroying many of the sets. The crew had to rush up the mountain the morning after Canadian Thanksgiving to rebuild everything. Then, just as they prepared to break down and pack up, a heavy snowfall buried much of their equipment and sets.
Bonus Fun Fact: Mel’s Cabin Is Sinking
One of the most recognizable locations—the quaint riverside cabin where Mel first stays—turned out to have a hidden issue: the structure began to sink. Though it appears solid on camera, real-life nature has its own plans.
