On THE CHASE:
A Tracker Fan’s Weekend in Greater Vancouver
Tracker, filmed entirely in British Columbia, follows Colter Shaw, a survivalist who solves crimes and locates missing persons across the country. Calling himself a “rewardist,” he digs into a new mystery each episode, showcasing the natural beauty of the region, as seen from his Airstream Flying Cloud travel trailer home.
Practical Considerations
Transportation: This itinerary works best with a car, as public transit between locations is limited. Plan for extra time during rush hours (7-9 AM and 3-6 PM on weekdays) when crossing bridges or traveling through tunnels.
Cleveland Dam and Lynn Canyon have free parking lots (arrive early on summer weekends), Steveston offers both street parking and lots, and Fort Langley has ample street parking.
Timing: Most locations are accessible year-round, though Bridal Veil Falls is most impressive during spring runoff. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy walking shoes in the cooler months.
Day One: Vancouver’s North Shore
Morning: North Vancouver Adventures
Begin your Tracker journey at Cleveland Dam, where one of the show’s most intense chase scenes was filmed. The massive concrete structure towers 91 meters above the Capilano River, creating a spectacular backdrop that’s particularly stunning in morning light. The dam has been a landmark since 1954, and while it played host to a dramatic pursuit in the show, its real-life presence is equally impressive. Before exploring, stop at Barrio Coffee, a cozy local café just minutes from the dam. Their specialty coffee and locally sourced baked goodies make the perfect fortification against the North Shore’s notoriously moody weather – even summer mornings can be misty here.
Take your warm drinks to explore the surrounding trails and visit the Capilano River Hatchery below the dam. The hatchery, while not featured in the show, offers free admission and fascinating insights into local salmon populations. The viewing windows below the water level let you observe these remarkable fish up close – something that feels right out of a survivalist’s handbook.
Follow the well-marked Twin Falls Trail, which offers several viewpoints perfect for recreating scenes from the show. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre’s outdoor seating area, where interpretive displays provide context about the temperate rainforest ecosystem.
Mid-Morning: Canyon Trails
By mid-morning, make the short drive to Lynn Canyon, where another dramatic sequence was shot near Twin Falls. The suspension bridge, swaying 50 meters above the canyon, offers free access to breathtaking views. The crystalline pools featured in the show are even more impressive in person, though swimming is strictly prohibited due to dangerous currents.
Day TWO: IDYLLIC STEVESTON
Afternoon: Steveston Heritage
Head south to Steveston Village in Richmond, which stood in for Camden, Maine in Episode 8. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site dominates the waterfront, its weathered wooden exterior virtually unchanged since 1894. In the show, this historic site provides the backdrop for Colter’s investigation of a fishing town mystery. The cannery offers guided tours that illuminate the area’s rich fishing heritage, and the original machinery inside helps visitors understand why this location was perfect for the show’s atmospheric needs.
The working fishing harbor still buzzes with activity – time your visit right and you might see fishing boats unloading their catch at Fisherman’s Wharf. The wooden boardwalk where Colter questions local fishermen remains largely unchanged from its appearance in the show. Grab lunch at Pajo’s Fish and Chips, and try their signature halibut and chips while watching seals play in the harbor.
Before leaving Steveston, visit Garry Point Park, where several background shots were filmed. The park’s windswept trails and driftwood-strewn beaches offer spectacular sunset views of the Gulf Islands, and the Japanese gardens provide a peaceful spot for reflection.
Finish your day back wandering the village for a variety of dining options. From award-winning fine Thai dining at Baan Lao to BBQ comfort food at the Hog Shack Cook House, you’re bound to tempt any craving in this quaint village.
After lunch, join a whale watching tour with Steveston Seabreeze Adventures or Vancouver Whale Watch – the local waters are home to orcas and humpback whales, offering the kind of wild encounter that would impress even a survivalist like Colter Shaw. The 4-5 hour tours provide ample opportunities to spot marine wildlife and gain a deeper appreciation for the maritime setting that drew the show’s producers to this location.
Ready to start your adventure?