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First Blood movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was First Blood filmed?

1982

City Locations

Hope (Canada), Pitt Meadows (Canada), North Vancouver (Canada), Port Coquitlam (Canada), Burnaby (Canada)

Location Types

Storefront, Riverside, Film Studio

Location Styles

Federal Building, Muscle, Helicopter, Motorcycle Style

About First Blood

Sylvester Stallone stars as Vietnam War veteran John Rambo in the 1982 action classic, "First Blood," directed by Ted Kotcheff. Richard Crenna plays his mentor Sam Trautman, and Brian Dennehy takes on the role of Sheriff Will Teasle.

Drawing inspiration from the beloved 1972 novel First Blood by David Morrell, countless directors and production studios had long strived to translate this story onto the silver screen. However, it wasn't until several decades later that their efforts were finally realized with this cinematic release. In this iconic movie, Rambo is portrayed as an overlooked yet tormented Vietnam vet who has to apply his combat knowledge and survival skills when pursued by authorities and military personnel in the fictitious small town of Hope, Washington. Rambo: First Blood serves as the introductory film to the iconic franchise, followed by its action-packed sequel "Rambo: First Blood Part II."

First Blood was released in the US on October 22, 1982. Despite mixed reviews on release, the movie enjoyed tremendous success at the box office, with a total of $156 million domestically and the seventh biggest worldwide. This made it one of the 13th highest-grossing films in North America and an international blockbuster. Back in 1985, this Hollywood movie made history by being the first to be released in China and sold more tickets than any other American picture until 2018. Over time, critics have come around to appreciate the performances of Stallone, Dennehy, and Crenna, as well as recognizing its impact on action movies.

Stallone's success with this piece of work catalyzed the emergence of a profitable franchise, including four sequels (written and featuring him), a comic book series, an animated TV series, several books in the form of novels, and various video games.

First Blood Locations

First Blood was filmed in the province of British Columbia, Canada. Hope, British Columbia was selected for its quaint charm, and Pitt Lake, Golden Ears Provincial Park, and Port Coquitlam were chosen to capture the beauty of the forest (per IMDb).

It's no surprise that British Columbia and Canada have a long history of warmly accepting American television and film productions; just take "Debris" from the sci-fi network or the titular backdrop of "Brokeback Mountain," for instance. The firearms used in the movie had to be brought into Canada due to its strict gun regulations and eventually got stolen during production. They also experienced bizarre weather patterns consisting of uncharacteristically warm temperatures in November and heavy snowfall in January that caused numerous shutdowns for production (via AFI Catalog).

Despite the difficulties, production for the film was completed, and it was a success at the box office. This resulted in several sequels, the most recent being "Last Blood" from 2019, which appears to be the concluding chapter of John Rambo's increasingly violent journey.

Rambo coming to Hope scene in First Blood

Hope, BC V0X 1L0, Canada

After discovering the death of a beloved friend from cancer, Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) continues his journey and arrives in Hope, Washington. If you venture to the intersection near Exit 170, you can still find the 'Welcome to Hope' sign and a wooden archway reading 'Gateway to Holidayland' close by both Hope Station House and Coquihalla Campground.

Hope Station House is a national historic site located in Hope, Canada. Situated on the north bank of the Fraser River and surrounded by lush forests, it was built in 1865 as a base for a series of mining expeditions. Today, the station house serves as an interpretive center, offering exhibits and activities about the area’s history. Visitors can experience 19th-century life within its walls, tour old mine sites nearby or explore modern-day adventures such as hiking, fishing, and white water rafting.

Hope is relatively easy to reach by plane or car. Flying into Abbotsford International Airport would place you closest to this magical destination. Alternatively, if you’re up for a scenic drive through some of the most beautiful Canadian landscapes, hop in your car and take Highway 1.

Sheriff dropping Rambo off scene in First Blood

SW Sellwood Bridge, Portland, OR 97202, United States

As the movie starts, Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) is walking through town when he's intercepted by Sheriff Will Teasle (Brian Dennehy). The sheriff tells him to leave town and stay away. Despite the warning, Rambo attempts to make his way back to Hope. In response, the sheriff drives him to the outskirts of Portland, Oregon, and drops him off at a bridge that was eventually taken down in 2011.

The Sellwood Bridge is an iconic structure located in Portland, Oregon. Spanning the Willamette River and connecting the cities of Portland and Milwaukie, it is one of the oldest bridges in the city. Constructed in 1925, the bridge was initially built as a two-lane truss with a vertical clearance of just 21 feet. In 2015, it underwent a major rebuild to address safety concerns. The new bridge was opened the same year, featuring four lanes with wider sidewalks and bicycle lanes. Its iconic design has made it a landmark for locals and visitors alike. In contrast, its pedestrian-friendly features make it a great spot to enjoy river views or simply admire its beautiful architecture.

Getting to the SW Sellwood Bridge in Portland is easy. Take US-7 until you reach OR-146, then turn onto SE McLoughlin Blvd and follow that until your destination is reached. If using public transport, multiple bus lines make stops close to the bridge, including Lines 12, 19, and 70. For those looking for a greener option, cycling is also accessible to the bridge via the Springwater Corridor Trail, which intersects with OR-146 near Milwaukie.

Rambo stealing the bike scene in First Blood

885 Water Ave, Hope, BC V0X 1L0, Canada

In a fit of rage, Teasle (Brian Dennehy) arrests Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) for vagrancy, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon. Led by the cruel Art Galt (Jack Starrett), Teasle's officers inflict great suffering on Rambo, bringing flashbacks to the torture he suffered in Vietnam. When they try to shave him with a straight razor, Rambo gets into a rage and escapes from the station. He recovers his knife, steals a motorcycle, and flees into the nearby woods. Angered, Teasle assembles a search party with automatic weapons, dogs, and even a helicopter in pursuit of him.

885 Water Ave is home to a classic Chevron gas station, providing weary travelers and local Hometown citizens with the fuel they need to keep their engines running. The establishment offers a wide selection of quality, top-grade gasoline that won't break the bank. Inside, customers can find snacks, drinks, and other necessities for long journeys and quick pit stops.

Getting to 875 Water Ave in Hope doesn't have to be a trying experience. You can make the journey in several different ways, depending on your preference and available resources. For example, if you're the type who likes to get where you're going with minimal effort, hopping in a cab or grabbing an Uber would do the trick. For those more inclined to make their way via public transportation, buses, and ferries are operating in the area that will make a stop at 875 Water Ave. Of course, if you want to go old school, there's always the option of walking.

Shooting on the cliff scene in First Blood

Othello Tunnels, Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, Hope, BC V0X 1L1, Canada

Defying Teasle's (Brian Dennehy) orders, Galt (Jack Starrett) attempts to gun down Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) from a helicopter. Cornered high on a cliff, Rambo quickly climbs into a nearby tree, sustaining an arm injury. He throws a rock at the aircraft, smashing its windshield and briefly disabling it. As Galt loses his balance and plunges to his death below, Rambo attempts to surrender to Teasle, pleading that Galt's demise was an accident and that he wants no further trouble. The officers open fire andRamob flees the scene.

The Othello Tunnels are an incredible natural wonder in Coquihalla Canyon near Hope, Canada. Constructed between 1911 and 1913, these tunnels were part of the Kettle Valley Railway project and were built to reduce the steep grade that trains had to ascend as they climbed into the mountains. Today, they are a popular tourist attraction and feature stunning views of the river valleys below. Visitors can hike through the four tunnel entrances, explore the trestle bridge crossings and marvel at the surrounding rock walls. Not only do they provide an enchanting experience for adventurers, but they also act as a reminder of Canada's proud railway heritage.

If you want to explore a true Canadian classic, visiting the Othello Tunnels in Hope, British Columbia, should be at the top of any travel list. The tunnels are about ninety minutes from Vancouver and about four hours from Seattle. They can be accessed by car or by joining a local guided tour since public transport to this area is not readily available. Since opening in 1915, these tunnels have been a hot spot for tourists interested in its history and outdoor enthusiasts looking to stroll down the magnificent railway bridge.

Explosion scene in First Blood

3 Ave & Commission St, Hope, BC V0X 0A2, Canada

To divert the officers, Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) destroys a gas station, knocks out the town's power supply, and trashes a sportswear store close to the police office. Trautman (Richard Crenna) recognizes Teasle (Brian Dennehy) is overwhelmed and reiterates his suggestion for Teasle to leave Rambo alone. The sheriff disregards the advice, continuing to find and take down Rambo. When he enters an ammunition shop, Rambo quickly pieces together the supplies and fires them with a single gunshot. He then sees Teasle perched atop the police station roof and fires, causing him to crash through a skylight.

Commission Street and Third Avenue became the home of the Outpost Gun shop created solely for a movie - only to later be destroyed in one of its scenes.

Hope is a small town located in British Columbia, Canada. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges and rivers, it's one of the most picturesque areas in the Fraser Valley region. The nearby Othello Tunnels offer visitors an enchanting experience and stunning views of the river valleys below. Many locals participate in outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and camping, while tourists are drawn to Hope to explore its rich history. From ancient First Nations sites to preserved buildings from the gold rush era, this beautiful town has plenty to see and do.

Getting to 3 Ave & Commission St, Hope, can be a breeze if you prepare beforehand. Log onto your preferred transportation app and get turn-by-turn directions based on your preferred form of transport. Even walking or biking is possible - follow the street signs and get ready to explore.

Rambo's confession scene in First Blood

325 Wallace St, Hope, BC V0X 1L0, Canada

As Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) is about to take a fatal action, Trautman (Richard Crenna) steps in to warn him of certain death, reminding him of his status as the sole survivor of his Green Beret unit. Rambo's pent-up emotions pour out as he expresses the terrors of war, the PTSD gripping him, and how forgotten and mistreated he felt by his fellow countrymen when he returned from service. A particularly heartbreaking memory for Rambo is that of one comrade killed by a Vietcong child soldier using an explosive device made from a shoe-shine box. Trautman comforts Rambo and encourages his surrender, which Rambo reluctantly does before being taken into custody. Teasle is taken away in an ambulance to receive medical attention.

Hope is a small town located in British Columbia, Canada. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges and rivers, it's one of the most picturesque areas in the Fraser Valley region. From ancient First Nations sites to preserved buildings from the gold rush era, this charming town has plenty for visitors to explore.

Getting to 325 Wallace St, Hope, is easier than it seems. Located in the city's charming downtown area, the best route would be to take exit 31 from I-40 and follow the signs toward Downtown Hope until you reach Wallace St.

Conclusion

First Blood, a classic action film, showcases breathtaking filming locations that add depth and intensity to the narrative. Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Hope, British Columbia, Canada, the picturesque wilderness becomes the perfect backdrop for John Rambo's harrowing journey.

The dense, towering forests of British Columbia's Cascade Mountains set the tone for the film's thrilling cat-and-mouse game. Rambo's escape from pursuers takes us through thick underbrush, captivating viewers with the region's untamed beauty.

As the plot unfolds, the tranquil Hope River symbolizes peace and redemption, contrasting the ensuing chaos. Its gentle flow and rocky banks offer a serene respite amidst the action-packed sequences.

Additionally, the quaint town of Hope itself is a vital filming location. The charming main street, with its rustic storefronts and quaint architecture, adds authenticity to the narrative. Rambo's interactions with the locals provide a glimpse into small-town life, making the film's characters more relatable.

First Blood's filming locations in British Columbia elevate the movie's intensity, showcasing the mesmerizing beauty of nature and the rustic charm of a small town, all while setting the stage for an unforgettable action-packed adventure.