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Back to the Future Part III movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Back to the Future Part III filmed?

1990

City Locations

Jamestown and Los Angeles, California

Location Types

Film Studio, House

Location Styles

Dated/50's-60's-70's, Desert, Ranch Style, Old Hollywood

About Back to the Future Part III

Released in 1990, Back to the Future Part III marks the final chapter of the beloved Back to the Future trilogy. Picking up where its predecessor left off, the film is directed by Robert Zemeckis and features an all-star cast including Christopher Lloyd, Michael J. Fox, Thomas F. Wilson, Mary Steenburgen, and Lea Thompson.

The plot finds protagonist Marty McFly stranded in 1955 after discovering that Buford "Mad Dog" Tannen (Wilson), Biff's great-grandfather, killed his friend Dr. Emmett "Doc" Brown (Lloyd) while trapped in 1885. In a bid to rescue Doc, Marty travels back to 1885 but faces a new hurdle when Doc falls for Clara Clayton (Steenburgen). Ultimately, Marty must navigate through time once again to save Doc before returning to his own era.

Back to the Future III was produced alongside Part II with a budget of $40 million and filmed on location in California and Arizona. The movie hit theaters in the United States just six months after its predecessor, on May 25, 1990. During its initial run, it generated $245 million in ticket sales worldwide and ranked as the sixth-highest-grossing film of that year. Critics praised the film, noting that it represented a marked improvement over the previous installment.

Back to the Future Part III's Western motif can be traced back to the making of the first film. While shooting the original movie, director Zemeckis asked Michael J. Fox which era he'd like to visit if he could time-travel. Fox expressed a desire to explore the Old West and mingle with cowboys. Zemeckis and writer/producer Bob Gale found the concept intriguing but reserved it for the third movie. To add an authentic touch, the filmmakers built the 1885 Hill Valley from the ground up instead of relying on any existing sets.

Back to the Future Part III Locations

The iconic film Back to the Future Part III was filmed in a variety of locations across Arizona and California. The majority of scenes were shot in Oak Park, California, a suburban area located in Ventura County known for its large open spaces and mountain vistas. In addition to the stunning scenery that Oak Park provided for the film, Arizona’s Monument Valley also featured prominently due to its impressive sandstone monuments and buttes. Jamestown, California, was used as the filming location for 1885 Hill Valley, and a purpose-built set was used at Red Hills Ranch near Sonora, California. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown was also used for some of the train scenes.

With various locations providing stunning visuals and beautiful scenery across different time periods, it’s no wonder why this movie continues to be regarded as one of the most successful film franchises in history.

Visiting these locations today would be a great way to get an up close and personal look at what went into making this classic movie. From getting a firsthand experience of the picturesque Oak Park landscape to exploring the unique formations of Monument Valley, no two destinations are alike. All together, these various places create an unforgettable trip back in time to re-create some legendary silver-screen scenes.

Marty finding Doc's tomb scene in Back to the Future Part III

1399 King James Ct, Oak Park, CA 91377, United States

Shortly after witnessing Doc disappear in his DeLorean in 1955, Marty discovers that Doc has been transported to the year 1885. With the help of information from a letter that Doc had written in 1885, Marty and the 1955 version of Doc locate and repair the DeLorean so that Marty can travel back to 1985. However, while searching for the DeLorean, Marty stumbles upon a grave with Doc's name and an inscription revealing that Biff Tannen's great-grandfather, Buford "Mad Dog" Tannen , had fatally shot Doc just six days after writing the letter.

This scene was filmed at China Flat Trailhead, a popular hiking destination located in Oak Park, California. The trailhead serves as the entry point to several scenic hiking trails that wind through the Santa Monica Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Another notable trail accessible from China Flat Trailhead is the Simi Peak Trail, which is a more challenging hike that leads to the summit of Simi Peak. From the peak, hikers can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

If you are looking for directions to 1399 King James Ct in Oak Park, you’ll find it roughly 40 miles west of downtown Los Angeles. Keep in mind that traffic can get quite heavy at times on Highway 101, so you may need to allow extra travel time.

Marty arrives in 1885 scene in Back to the Future Part III

Oljato-Monument Valley, Arizona 84536, USA

Ignoring the cautionary letter, Marty travels back to 1885 with the intention of rescuing Doc . However, he arrives in the midst of a cavalry chase against Native Americans, causing the fuel line of his car to get damaged. While being chased by a bear, he gets knocked out and is later discovered by his Irish-born great-great-grandparents, Seamus (Michael J. Fox) and Maggie McFly (Lea Thompson), who offer him shelter for the night.

Located within the Navajo Nation Reservation in the southwestern United States, Oljato-Monument Valley is a mesmerizing and emblematic place known for its distinctive rock formations and awe-inspiring vistas. This area has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and ads due to its unparalleled beauty. In addition to being a stunning tourist destination, Oljato-Monument Valley is also home to several significant cultural and historical sites, many of which hold great sacred value to the Navajo people who have resided in the region for centuries.

To gain insights into Navajo culture and history, visitors can partake in guided tours or educational exhibits that unravel the mysteries of this fascinating place.

If you are traveling by car, the park is located on the border between Arizona and Utah, about 22 miles southwest of Mexican Hat, Utah, and 20 miles northeast of Kayenta, Arizona.

Marty arriving in Hill Valley scene in Back to the Future Part III

Red Hill Rd, Jamestown, CA 95327, United States

The following day, adopting the pseudonym of Clint Eastwood, Marty ventures into Hill Valley but finds himself at odds with Buford and his gang. In a perilous encounter, Buford attempts to hang Marty, but Doc comes to his rescue just in time. After discovering his destiny, Doc consents to depart from 1885; however, as the DeLorean lacks fuel, it cannot travel at its requisite speed of 88 miles per hour. To overcome this obstacle, Doc suggests employing a steam locomotive to propel the DeLorean to the required velocity.

The Red Hills is a region located in Tuolumne County, California, and it was used as the filming location for these Hill Valley scenes. It is characterized by its stunning red rock formations that have been sculpted by millions of years of geological activity and erosion. Red Hills is also known for its rich history and cultural significance. The area has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, as evidenced by the presence of petroglyphs and other artifacts. Visitors can learn about the history of the region through guided tours and educational exhibits.

To get to Red Hill Road in Jamestown, California, you’ll need to head about 40 miles northeast of Modesto. From San Francisco, you’re looking at a drive of around three hours. It's always a good idea to check for any road closures or traffic updates before heading out on your journey.

Clara getting off the train scene in Back to the Future Part III

8957 CA-120, Jamestown, CA 95327, United States

While on the train to San Francisco, Clara discovers the extent of Doc's heartache. Moved by his sorrow, she pulls the emergency brake and hurries back to town. There, she stumbles upon the model of the time machine at Doc's shop and finally comprehends the authenticity of his tale. Determined to reconcile with him, she hastens back to intercept him.

This scene was filmed on the Sierra Railroad, which is located in Jamestown and is a historic railway that dates back to the late 1800s. Originally built to transport lumber and provide access to the gold mines in the region, the railroad has since evolved into a popular tourist attraction. The Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, located adjacent to the railroad, features historic locomotives and railroad artifacts, as well as exhibits on the history of railroading in California. Visitors can take guided tours of the park and even ride on an authentic steam train.

To get to this iconic railroad in Jamestown, California, it’s just a short drive from the Red Hills location in the scene mentioned above.

Marty reuniting with Jennifer scene in Back to the Future Part III

161 N Magnolia Ave, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA

Upon arriving in 1985, Marty narrowly escapes from the DeLorean just before it succumbs to its demise under an incoming freight train. After reuniting with Jennifer (Claudia Wells), he makes the wise decision to decline Needles' invitation for a street race, thus averting the future accident that Doc had warned him about. As Jennifer opens the fax message from 2015, she witnesses the text regarding Marty's termination vanish into thin air, altering their future for the better.

Jennifer’s house is found on Magnolia Avenue, a picturesque street in Monrovia, California, that exudes small-town charm and a rich history. The tree-lined avenue is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. One of the most well-known landmarks on Magnolia Avenue is the Monrovia Public Library, which has been serving the community since 1892. In addition to its cultural offerings, Magnolia Avenue boasts a variety of dining options, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.

To get to 161 N Magnolia Ave in Monrovia, head north on CA-110 from downtown LA. Once you get to Pasadena, turn right to head towards Monrovia. In total, you’re looking at a journey of about 20 miles.

Marty and Jennifer looking at crashed DeLorean scene in Back to the Future Part III

South Ventura Rd & Shoreview Dr, Port Hueneme, CA 93041, USA

Marty and Jennifer are inspecting the remains of the DeLorean when a sophisticated steam engine driven by Doc, Clara, and their children unexpectedly materializes. Doc hands over a picture of them standing beside the clock tower in 1885 to Marty. When Jennifer inquires about the empty fax, Doc explains that it indicates their fate is not predetermined and urges them to make the most of it. Doc says goodbye and then departs in the time-traveling locomotive to an unknown destination.

South Ventura Road and Shoreview Drive in Port Hueneme is a bustling intersection that is a hub of activity for residents and visitors alike. The area is known for its prime location near the beach

If you're looking to reach the intersection where this memorable scene was filmed, you can find it about 60 miles west of downtown LA.

Conclusion

Back to the Future Part III is a movie that showcases a range of stunning locations. It brought to life a variety of settings from 1885 right through to 1955 thanks to its impressive selection of filming locations. All these elements worked together harmoniously to make this beloved movie an unforgettable classic that continues to be enjoyed by generations today.

What’s great news for film fanatics is that several of the most iconic Back to the Future Part III filming locations are easy to visit in real life. So why not jump in your DeLorean and take a road trip to check them out in person?