incredible journey film location

Where was Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey filmed?

City locations.

Oregon, (USA), San Francisco (USA)

Location Types

Nature, Farm/Ranch

Location Styles

Modern Car, Ranch Style

About Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

From director Duwayne Dunham, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is a remake of the 1963 film based on Shelia Burnford's best-selling novel. Released in 1993, the film tells the story of three loyal pets - Shadow the Golden Retriever (Don Ameche), Sassy the Himalayan cat (Sally Field), and Chance the American Bulldog (Michael J. Fox). Together they embark on an adventure that will test their courage and friendship as they face danger and unexpected surprises while making an incredible journey back home.

Chance is an American Bulldog who has been abandoned as a pup and thus struggles to believe in the concept of "home." Along his journey, he is joined by Jamie Burnford's beloved pet Shadow - an older Golden Retriever - and Hope’s Himalayan cat Sassy.

After Bob Seaver and Laura Burnford get married, the family goes on a trip to San Francisco, leaving their beloved pets at Kate’s ranch, and so begins their big and eventful adventure.

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey was a box office success, grossing over $40 million and prompting the release of a sequel in 1996. The sequel dubbed Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco featured the same trio of pets led by Ralph Waite as Shadow (Don Ameche, who voiced Shadow in the first installment, passed away shortly after the original production’s release).

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey Locations

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is set in California, with the pets' journey taking them through the Sierra mountain range. In reality, however, filming was conducted in Oregon due to its varied topography, and diverse locations in Portland were used to substitute San Francisco.

Eastern Oregon served as Bishop and the Eagle Cap Wilderness area resembled the Sierra Nevadas. Filming kicked off in August 1991 and wrapped up in October of that same year.

Midway through the project, the film crew took their cameras and equipment on mules and horses for a journey of more than 15 miles into the Eagle Cap area of the Wallow Mountains, which is a protected wilderness area. This portion of filming took three days, and production designer Roger Cain felt that Mother Nature made his job easier given how grand and remote the scenery is.

Audiences will certainly be awed by what these animals endured during their incredible journey, and the movie’s biggest fans will equally enjoy a trip down memory lane to explore the filming locations of Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.

Chance’s introduction scene in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

Redmond, OR 97756, USA

At the start of the movie, Chance (Michael J. Fox), a selfish and independent American Bulldog, reveals that he belonged to Jamie Burnford (Kevin Chevalia), and he has no interest in being part of a family. Chance had been abandoned prior to getting to Jamie's home, and spent some time at an animal shelter.

The railway in the opening scene is located in Redmond, a vibrant outdoor community situated in the heart of Central Oregon. It's been described as a "gateway to adventure," and it's easy to see why. Visitors can access nearby mountains and forests for hiking, camping, and fishing, while downtown Redmond is bustling with restaurants, bars, and cafés.

With its stunning scenery and thriving art scene, Redmond is a perfect spot to explore nature and soak up city life all in a single day. The easiest way to get to Redmond is down I-5 and then take exit #67 at OR-331 towards La Pine & Sunriver. From there, turn onto Forest Road 20, which will take you straight through the Deschutes National Forest toward your destination.

The wedding scene in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

5402 SE 37th Ave, Portland, OR 97202, USA

During the scene that introduces Chance’s family, the canine causes quite a fracas when he devours the cake at the wedding ceremony of Laura Burnford (Kim Greist) and Bob Seaver (Robert Hays), much to the surprise of all who attend.

Located in the Southeast quadrant of Portland, 5402 SE 37th Ave is the perfect starting point for anyone who wants to experience the best of Portland life. Whether you are up for an after-work stroll through a quaint neighborhood park or a delicious meal prepared by some of the city's top chefs, this Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey filming location offers it all.

Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at local boutiques or grab a drink with friends at one of the many craft breweries nearby. With its tree-lined streets and stunning views of Mount Hood, 5402 SE 37th Ave should undoubtedly make it on the itinerary of your movie locations tour.

Follow Interstate 84 until you reach exit 3 and proceed onto I-205 north before taking exit 21b and following 122nd Avenue east until you turn right onto SE 37th Ave. Alternatively, if you're taking public transit then you can catch the 72/72 bus going westbound from Sandy and 12th or the 77/77X lines that run along 85th Avenue.

Arriving at Kate’s ranch scene in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

63246 Hurricane Creek Rd, Enterprise, OR 97828, USA

Shortly after the wedding, the family is forced to move to San Francisco due to Bob's (Robert Hays) work obligations. They decide to leave their pets with Kate (Jean Smart), who is a friend of Laura's (Kim Greist) from college.

Shadow (Don Ameche) and Sassy (Sally Field) quickly miss their owners, while Chance (Michael J. Fox) sees it as an opportunity to relax and enjoy his freedom. Freels Ranch is an idyllic getaway situated in the heart of Central Oregon.

The sprawling grounds provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and streams, as well as a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From horseback riding to fishing and camping, tourists can explore miles of scenic trails at this location.

An alternative is to make your way through the trails on foot or by bicycle, and history buffs will appreciate the homestead's antique buildings. Freels Ranch also offers opportunities to take part in local cultural events such as rodeos and farmers' markets.

Starting from Pendleton, Oregon, a drive along I-84 W for about 35 miles will take you right to Freels Ranch. Cruise down US-395 S for 18 miles until you reach the County Road 11 intersection, make a left, and continue from there for another few minutes which brings you to your destination.

Where's the house scene in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

Mount Howard, Oregon 97846, United States

With Shadow (Don Ameche) in the lead, Sassy (Sally Field) and Chance (Michael J. Fox) start their journey back home. As they traverse the rocky, mountainous wilderness of the Sierra Nevada, they come to the top of a mountain and see the vast expanse below them. It is there that they wonder where their true home lies.

Nestled in the Blue Mountains of Eastern Oregon, Mount Howard is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. This picturesque landscape features sweeping views of surrounding alpine meadows and pine forests, perfect for a day of hiking, camping, and fishing. Explore miles of trails on foot, horseback, or mountain bike, or simply relax and take in the beauty of nature.

Located in eastern Oregon, Mount Howard is an eight-mile roundtrip hike consisting of switchbacks and uphill terrain. With plenty of spots to take in the breathtaking views, getting to Mount Howard is a journey that offers plenty of opportunities to see the beauty of Oregon along the way.

The most accessible route starts at Elk Meadows Trailhead off NF-52B, just west of Granite. Follow Deadhorse Trail 1675 to Deadhorse Lake and connect with Wolf Point Trail 931 south - then you'll be on your way to Mount Howard!

Meeting a mountain lion scene in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

Smith Rock State Park, Terrebonne, OR 97760, United States

For the next two days, Shadow (Don Ameche) and Chance (Michael J. Fox) attempt to secure food, with a mountain lion hot on their trail. Desperate, Shadow has an ingenious plan to use rocks as a seesaw, in an attempt to trick the big cat.

He acts as bait while Chance jumps onto the other end of the rock, sending the lion flying over the edge and into a river below. Miraculously, Sassy (Sally Field) hears their barks in celebration and joins them soon after.

Smith Rock State Park is a stunning display of nature's splendor and a popular destination for rock climbers from all over the world. This park boasts mile-high cliffs, winding trails, desert vegetation, and awe-inspiring panoramic views. Outdoor enthusiasts will love basking in the sun during a day of hiking, camping, or fishing on the Crooked River.

Smith Rock also offers opportunities to discover plants, animals, and fossils unique to this region. Located in Terrebonne, OR, this incredible park is easily accessed by car. From Southwest Powell Boulevard/U.S. Route 97 head east on S.R 11/Smith Rock Way and you'll find yourself at the entrance in no time!

If you decide to take Highway 20, go south at Northeast 27th Street until you reach the Crooked River, and then follow territorial highway 11! This scenic drive culminates at the entrance of this breathtaking nature park - so don't forget your camera!

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey became an instant favorite, with viewers of all ages falling in love with the adorable Chance (Michael J. Fox), an American bulldog pup, Sassy (Sally Field), a Himalayan cat, whose humor is befitting of her royal name, and Shadow (Don Ameche), a wise old golden retriever - all of whom have very recognizable human voices!

The story begins when their devoted owners are forced to leave them in the care of a distant friend. After several days go by and no word from home, the worried animals take it upon themselves to make the long and arduous journey back home.

Along the way, they experience unexpected obstacles, face off with both humans and nature, and all the experiences the trio faces make for an exciting adventure. It's an unforgettable story about courage and loyalty which still appeals to people of all ages, long after its release.

The Incredible Journey

• Photos & Videos

Film Details

• Articles & Reviews

Brief Synopsis

Cast & crew, fletcher markle, emile genest, photos & videos, technical specs.

When the Hunter family depart from their Canadian town for a summer in England, they leave their pets--Bodger (an elderly bull terrier), Luath (a yellow Labrador retriever), and Tao (a Siamese cat)--with their friend John Longridge, who lives in Ontario 250 miles away. Toward the end of the summer, John goes off on a hunting trip, and the three homesick animals set out to find their way back to the Hunter house. During their journey across some of Canada's wildest terrain, the three participate in numerous adventures. There are an encounter with a lynx, a battle with a vicious farm dog, and a scuffle with a bear. Tao, a natural hunter, brings Bodger food after he collapses from weakness. The dogs become separated from Tao when he falls into a river and nearly drowns, but they are reunited after the cat has been rescued and nursed back to health by a little Finnish girl. Luath has a painful encounter with a porcupine, but his wounds are treated by a kindly farmer. Along the way an old hermit entertains the trio as his guests. Upon returning from England, the Hunters are informed of the disappearance of their pets. A short time later a somewhat unhappy birthday party in the Hunter garden is turned into a homecoming celebration as the three pets emerge from the woods behind the house and rush to join the family for a happy reunion.

John Drainie

Tommy tweed, sandra scott, marion finlayson, ronald cohoon, robert christie, beth lockerbie, irena mayeska, eric clavering, james algar, lloyd beebe, carroll clark, robert o. cook, jack couffer, walt disney, halleck h. driscoll, chuck keehne, evelyn kennedy, william r. koehler, john b. mansbridge, mickey mccardle, pat mcnalley, william o'sullivan, norman r. palmer, kenneth peach, walter sheets, charles thompson, erwin l. verity, oliver wallace.

Filmed on location in Canada.

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40 facts about the movie the incredible journey.

Written by Lurline Lindstrom

Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

The Incredible Journey is a beloved classic movie that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1963, the film tells the heartwarming story of two dogs and a cat who embark on a perilous adventure to find their owners. This enchanting tale, based on the novel by Sheila Burnford, has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with both children and adults alike. With its memorable characters, breathtaking landscapes, and touching moments of friendship and loyalty, The Incredible Journey has become a cinematic treasure. In this article, we will delve into 40 fascinating facts about this remarkable film, giving you a deeper understanding and appreciation for the magic behind the scenes. So, get ready to embark on a journey of film trivia and discover the secrets behind The Incredible Journey.

Key Takeaways:

• “The Incredible Journey” is a heartwarming adventure film based on a novel, showcasing the bond between animals and humans in the Canadian wilderness. It teaches valuable life lessons and promotes empathy towards animals.
• The movie captures the spirit of adventure, friendship, and determination, appealing to all ages with its timeless appeal. It evokes a sense of nostalgia and leaves audiences with a warm and fuzzy feeling.

The Incredible Journey is a heartwarming adventure film

The film follows the incredible journey of two dogs and a cat as they travel through the wilderness to find their owners.

The movie is based on a novel

The Incredible Journey is based on the novel of the same name by Sheila Burnford, which was published in 1961.

It was released in 1963

The film was released on November 20, 1963, and has since become a beloved classic.

The story is set in Canada

The Incredible Journey takes place in the vast and beautiful Canadian wilderness.

The animals are the main characters

The movie focuses on the incredible journey of a Labrador Retriever named Shadow, a Bull Terrier named Chance, and a Siamese cat named Sassy.

The film was directed by Fletcher Markle

Director Fletcher Markle brought the heartwarming story to life on the big screen.

It was produced by Walt Disney Productions

The Incredible Journey was produced by the renowned Walt Disney Productions.

The animals were trained for the movie

The animals in the film were trained by renowned animal trainer Frank Inn.

The movie was a box office success

The Incredible Journey was a commercial success, grossing over $8 million at the box office.

It received positive reviews from critics

Critics praised the film for its heartwarming story, stunning cinematography, and the incredible performances of the animal actors.

The film showcases the beauty of nature

The Incredible Journey features breathtaking scenery and highlights the beauty of the Canadian wilderness.

It teaches valuable life lessons

The movie emphasizes the importance of friendship, loyalty, and perseverance in the face of challenges.

The Incredible Journey was remade in 1993

A remake of the film was released in 1993, titled “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.”

The film has a captivating soundtrack

The music in The Incredible Journey enhances the emotional impact of the story and adds depth to the scenes.

The animals’ journey is full of obstacles

Throughout the film, Shadow, Chance, and Sassy encounter various challenges and dangers as they make their way back home.

The movie conveys a sense of adventure

The Incredible Journey takes viewers on an exciting and thrilling adventure through the wilderness.

The film’s message is uplifting

The movie inspires audiences with its message of hope, determination, and the unbreakable bond between animals and their owners.

The Incredible Journey won several awards

The film received nominations and awards for its exceptional storytelling and captivating performances.

The animals’ personalities shine through

The Incredible Journey portrays the unique characteristics and personalities of each animal, making them relatable and endearing to the audience.

The movie is suitable for all ages

The Incredible Journey is a family-friendly film that appeals to both children and adults.

The film captures the spirit of adventure

The Incredible Journey sparks the desire for adventure and exploration in its viewers.

The movie was shot on location

Many scenes in The Incredible Journey were filmed on location in the Canadian wilderness, adding authenticity to the story.

The animals’ journey is filled with suspense

The film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as they root for Shadow, Chance, and Sassy to overcome obstacles and find their way back home.

The Incredible Journey showcases the bond between animals and humans

The movie highlights the deep connection between pets and their owners, demonstrating the power of love and loyalty.

The film is a timeless classic

The Incredible Journey continues to captivate audiences of all generations with its timeless story and unforgettable characters.

The animals’ determination is inspiring

Shadow, Chance, and Sassy’s unwavering determination to reunite with their owners serves as a powerful source of inspiration.

The movie promotes empathy towards animals

The Incredible Journey encourages viewers to empathize with animals and appreciate their capacity for love and bravery.

The film showcases the wonders of nature

The Incredible Journey allows viewers to marvel at the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

The animals’ friendship is heartwarming

Shadow, Chance, and Sassy’s friendship blossoms throughout their journey, creating touching and heartwarming moments.

The Incredible Journey is a feel-good movie

The film leaves audiences with a warm and fuzzy feeling, reminding them of the power of love and unity.

The animals’ adventure is filled with humor

The Incredible Journey incorporates lighthearted moments and comedic elements to balance the intensity of the animals’ journey.

The film highlights the resilience of animals

Through their trials and tribulations, Shadow, Chance, and Sassy demonstrate the remarkable resilience of animals.

The animals’ journey is a testament to loyalty

Shadow, Chance, and Sassy’s unwavering loyalty to their owners is a central theme in The Incredible Journey.

The movie evokes a sense of nostalgia

For those who grew up watching The Incredible Journey, the film brings back cherished memories and emotions.

The film promotes the importance of family

The Incredible Journey underscores the significance of family, both human and animal, and the lengths we will go to protect and reunite with them.

The animals’ journey is filled with surprises

The film keeps viewers guessing as Shadow, Chance, and Sassy face unexpected twists and turns along their incredible journey.

The movie conveys the power of determination

Through their arduous journey, the animals demonstrate the power of perseverance and determination, inspiring audiences to never give up.

The Incredible Journey is a perfect blend of adventure and heartwarming moments

The film balances action-packed sequences with touching scenes that tug at the heartstrings, captivating viewers from beginning to end.

The animals’ journey is emotionally gripping

Viewers cannot help but become emotionally invested in Shadow, Chance, and Sassy’s quest to reunite with their beloved owners.

The movie has a timeless appeal

Decades after its release, The Incredible Journey continues to be cherished and enjoyed by movie lovers around the world.

The Incredible Journey is a timeless movie that has captivated audiences for decades. With its heartwarming story, lovable characters, and beautiful cinematography, it has cemented itself as a classic in the world of cinema. From its memorable scenes to its iconic soundtrack, the movie continues to inspire and entertain viewers of all ages.

Whether you’re a fan of adventure, family movies, or simply looking for an uplifting film to enjoy, The Incredible Journey is a must-watch. So grab some popcorn, gather your loved ones, and embark on this incredible journey filled with friendship, loyalty, and the power of the human-animal bond.

1. What is the plot of The Incredible Journey?

The movie follows the incredible journey of two dogs and a cat as they travel hundreds of miles in search of their owners.

2. Is The Incredible Journey based on a true story?

Yes, the movie is based on the book of the same name by Sheila Burnford, which was inspired by a true story.

3. Who are the main characters in The Incredible Journey?

The main characters are Shadow, a wise and loyal Golden Retriever , Chance, a mischievous American Bulldog, and Sassy, a sassy and independent Himalayan cat.

4. When was The Incredible Journey released?

The Incredible Journey was released in 1963.

5. Who directed The Incredible Journey?

The movie was directed by Fletcher Markle.

6. Is The Incredible Journey suitable for children?

Yes, The Incredible Journey is considered a family-friendly movie and is suitable for children of all ages.

7. What is the running time of The Incredible Journey?

The movie has a running time of approximately 80 minutes.

8. Where was The Incredible Journey filmed?

The movie was primarily filmed in the Canadian wilderness, capturing the stunning landscapes and adding to the authenticity of the story.

9. Did The Incredible Journey win any awards?

Yes, the movie won the Best Western Movie award at the 1964 Cannes Film Festival.

10. Can I watch The Incredible Journey online?

Yes, The Incredible Journey is available for streaming on various platforms, making it easily accessible for movie enthusiasts.

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The Incredible Journey

November 20, 1963

Action-Adventure, Animals/Nature, Family

Finding themselves separated from their owners by 200 miles, the trio sets out on a perilous trek to find their family. Led by instinct, a young retriever, an old bull terrier and a self-sufficient Siamese cat face hunger, a dangerous bear, rushing rivers and much more along the way. These three unlikely friends soldier on, protecting and caring for one another in one of the most incredible journeys ever.

Rated: G Release Date: November 20, 1963

Directed By

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The Incredible Journey (1961)

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26 Filming locations for Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

Columbia River Gorge

Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Deschutes National Forest

Eagle Cap Wilderness Area

Mount Hood National Forest

Freels Ranch

Willamette National Forest

Smith Rock State Park

Sahalie Falls

Wahclella Falls

Paulina Creek

Benham Falls

Hixon Bridge

Hickman Butte Fire Lookout Tower

Metolius Balancing Rocks

San Francisco

Frederick Street and Clayton Street

3501 N Michigan Avenue

Brooklyn Intermodal Rail Yard

5402 SE 37th Avenue

Mount Howard

Metropolitan Learning Center

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Watch The Incredible Journey with a subscription on Disney+, rent on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

Audience Reviews

Cast & crew.

Fletcher Markle

Emile Genest

John Longridge

John Drainie

Professor Jim Hunter

Tommy Tweed

Sandra Scott

Mrs. Hunter

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Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

• View history

The film was released on February 3 , 1993 and went on to gross over $40 million at the box office. The film was considered a success and a sequel was produced and released in 1996 titled Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco . The sequel featured the same animals and the same actors voicing the animals, except for Shadow, who was voiced by Ralph Waite in the sequel, because Don Ameche died shortly after playing his role in the first film.

The film was shot at various locations in Oregon. Four national forests were used in filming, these included Deschutes National Forest, Mount Hood National Forest, Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, and Willamette National Forest. Cities and towns in Oregon that were used for filming included Portland, Oregon, Bend, Oregon, Joseph, Oregon, and Wallowa Oregon. Two other areas used for filming were the Columbia River Gorge and Eagle Cap Wilderness Area. This film was rated G by the Motion Picture Association of America.

• 3 Reception
• 4 Deleted scenes
• 8 External links

Chance, an American Bulldog (played by Rattler and voiced by Michael J. Fox ) and narrator of the film, opens the film by explaining that he is the pet of Jamie Burnford (Kevin Chevalia), but expresses no interest in his owner or having a "home" having lost faith in the concept after having been abandoned as a puppy. He shares his home with Shadow, (played by Ben and voiced by Don Ameche), an older Golden Retriever owned by Jamie's big brother Peter Burnford (Benj Thall), and Sassy, a Himalayan cat (played by Tiki and voiced by Sally Field ), owned by their sister Hope (Veronica Lauren). Bob Seaver (Robert Hays) is marrying Laura Burnford (Kim Greist), joining the family. Shortly after the wedding, the family goes on a trip to San Francisco, leaving the pets at a ranch belonging to Kate ( Jean Smart ), a family friend. Kate later goes on a cattle drive, leaving the animals at the ranch to be looked after by one of her ranch hands.

However, by this time, the animals think they have been abandoned, and Shadow begins to worry about Peter, so he decides to head for home. Sassy and a reluctant Chance follow. They head into the rocky, mountainous wilderness, with Shadow leading by instinct. After a night spent in fear of the woodland noise, the group stops to catch breakfast at a river. Two black bears steal Chance's fish, and when Chance barks at them in protest, they suddenly leave the fish and climb a tree. Chance cockily assumes that he has scared them off, but then a huge brown bear appears, causing the group to quickly flee, also. At another river, Sassy refuses to swim across to follow the dogs, running along the river until she reaches a path of wood that seems to cross its breadth. Halfway across, it breaks apart and she falls in. Shadow jumps in to try to save her, but she goes over a waterfall. Shadow and Chance search for her along the bank, but as night falls, they mourn their loss and continue without her.

A half-drowned Sassy is rescued from the river by a man who lives in the woods, who nurses her back to health. Without Sassy, the dogs struggle to catch fish from the river. A mountain lion begins stalking them. Chance spots the mountain lion while he is fishing. He tells Shadow, but Shadow does not believe him until he sees it himself. The mountain lion follows them to the edge of a cliff. Chance, in a "just in case I don't make it, this is where my treasures are" statement, tells Shadow where he has buried everything at home. When Chance mentions that the remote control is buried under the seesaw, Shadow sees a balanced rock shaped like a seesaw, which gives him an idea. Shadow comes up with a plan to defeat the mountain lion. While Shadow acts as the bait, Chance waits until the mountain lion steps onto the end of the rock that's touching the ground, and jumps on the other end, sending the mountain lion flying over the cliff and into a river. The mountain lion retreats, filled with humiliation and irritation at its defeat. Sassy hears them barking in celebration and follows the sound to rejoin them.

The animals continue on their way, but Chance tries to befriend a porcupine, ending up with a load of quills from its tail in his muzzle when it grows irritated at him and swats him in retaliation. His friends are unable to pull them out, and as they journey on, they find a little girl named Molly (Mariah Milner), who is (for an unexplained reason) lost in the woods. Too loyal to ignore her, they stand guard over her during the night and keep her warm. In the morning, Shadow finds a rescue party, which includes Molly's parents, and leads them back to her. Molly's father thanks Shadow for saving his daughter's life.

The forest rangers with the party recognize the animals from a "missing pets" flyer they received and take them to the local animal shelter, which is dubbed by Chance as the "Pound". Because Chance has had previous experiences with being in a dog pound and a subject that Shadow never believed was an actual place, he panics and warns the others to run. Sassy gets away while he and Shadow are taken inside. As the medical staff remove the quills from Chance's muzzle, Sassy sneaks in and frees Shadow. Together they retrieve Chance, now quill-free, and escape the shelter, without realizing that their owners were on their way to get them and take them home.

Finally, after much traveling, the trio reaches the outskirts of their hometown. By this point Chance is actually looking forward to seeing Jamie again, having a change of heart. They cross through a train yard when Shadow falls through some old boards into a muddy pit, injuring his leg. With Sassy and Chance persuading him, he tries to climb out of the pit, but is unable to do so. Lying down, he says he is too old and that they should go on without him. Chance jumps into the pit to try to get him going, but Shadow refuses to move. He almost dies, much to Chance's sadness. Near dusk, the family is out in the backyard playing basketball, when Jamie claims to hear Chance barking. The others think he is imagining things, but moments later Chance comes running over a hill, happily tackling "his boy". Sassy follows to be reunited with Hope, and Peter hopefully looks for Shadow, but when he doesn't show up, Peter says he was too old and it was too far of a walk for him and turns to go back inside. As he does, Shadow, very much alive, is seen limping over the hill (how he able to get out of the muddy pit is unknown). Peter turns back around and shouts Shadow's name as the two run towards each other.

As everyone watches, Chance narrates how it was Shadow's belief that brought them home and how the years seemed to lift off of him, making him a puppy again after being reunited with his best friend. While everyone goes inside, Chance stays behind for a moment, ending his narration by saying he had a family and for the first time in his life, he was really home before happily running into the house.

• Don Ameche as the voice of Shadow
• Michael J. Fox as the voice of Chance
• Sally Field as the voice of Sassy
• Robert Hays as Bob Seaver
• Kim Greist as Laura Burnford-Seaver
• Benj Thall as Peter Burnford-Seaver
• Veronica Lauren as Hope Burnford-Seaver
• Kevin Chevalia as Jamie Burnford-Seaver
• William Edward Phipps as Quentin
• Gary Taylor as Frank
• Jean Smart as Kate
• David McDonough as Foote
• Mark L. Taylor as Kirkwood
• Frank Welker as Birdzilla and Mountain Lion
• Ed Bernard as Desk Sergeant
• Don Alder as Molly's Father
• Woody Eney as Forest Ranger 'Mark'
• Jane Jones as Molly's Mother
• Kit McDonough as Female Forest Ranger
• Nurmi Husa as The Caterer
• Mariah Milner as Molly
• Bart the Bear as Bear
• J.E. Penner as Bob's Mom
• Caroll Spinney as Dog
• Nicholas Mastandrea as Hal

Reception [ ]

The film holds an 87% approval rating at Rotten Tomatoes based on 30 reviews.

Deleted scenes [ ]

A number of scenes cut from the movie were included in TV broadcasts:

• Peter washing Chance with a hose after Chance eats the wedding cake.
• Kate taking the pets on a car ride.
• Bob being invited to a barbecue, only for the kids to remind him that the barbecue falls on the day he had promised to take them to visit their pets.
• Kate finding the note she had written Frank that he had not seen, and then calling the pound to know if the pets are found before she realizes they're heading for home (revealed to be Fresno).
• Sassy observes the man at the river playing the saxophone at night.
• The man at the river bringing his goat into his house while he leaves.
• Before crossing the tracks, the pets search for food in the dumpster but found nothing.
• The climax and ending of the film were briefly referenced in the live-action remake for 101 Dalmatians .
• During Sassy's breaking into the pound to rescue the dogs, the theme song for Mission Impossible acts as the BGM.
• Miracle, Leica, Spirit, Steggy, Adoration, Steeple, and Droopy screech for Sassy.

Gallery [ ]

External links [ ]

• 2 Inside Out 2

• Ultimate Fan Event
• News and Events
• Disney A TO Z
• WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES
• VIDEO & PHOTO GALLERIES
• Redeem Gift Membership
• Redeem Gold Affiliate
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Did You Know? 8 Incredible Facts About Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

By Jim Fanning

Take one cat and two dogs who comically converse among themselves in human voices, separate them from their humans, and send them off on a perilous quest through the Sierra Nevadas to find their family, and you have Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey. This Disney hit, the popularity of which inspired a sequel in Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco (1996), is a remake of Walt Disney’s classic 1963 film The Incredible Journey . Released on February 12, 1993, this live-action comedy-adventure celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, so to fete the film and its two fidos, Shadow and Chance, and their feline friend, Sassy, here are some fascinating facts about this beloved Disney animal adventure.

1. The Incredible Journey Began with a Book… and a Movie The story of Homeward Bound : The Incredible Journey starts with The Incredible Journey , a top-selling book by Sheila Burnford. The author based her novel about the unstoppable animal trio on her own pets. Her three animals were her constant companions in England during World War II, and the pets were themselves inseparable. “They were closer than any other dog and cat relationship I have ever seen,” she said of her English Bull Terrier and Siamese cat. “Sleeping in the same basket, hunting and playing together, they made a lawless pair.” Later, a young Labrador was added to the mix, and the pup guarded the older dog when the Bull Terrier’s eyesight began to fail. It was this remarkable animal-kingdom kinship that inspired the author to write The Incredible Journey . Less than a year after its publication in 1960, the book became an international bestseller. Walt Disney immediately saw that this extraordinary story would make a compelling film. Released in 1963, The Incredible Journey became an iconic Disney animal film.

2. Two Oscar ® Winners Team Up One of the primary differences between the original film and Homeward Bound is that the animals talk. Since audibly revealing the thoughts of the pets is integral to the story, the casting of the actors who could convey personality with their voices alone was crucial. Consequently, the Homeward Bound filmmakers cast Academy Award ® -caliber talent. Two-time Oscar ® winner (For Best Actress in Norma Rae (1979) and Places in the Heart (1984)), Sally Field performs the voice of Sassy, the sophisticated Himalayan feline. As for the voice of Shadow, Don Ameche was signed to vocalize the wise Golden Retriever. A movie star from Hollywood’s golden era, Ameche experienced a popularity resurgence when he won an Oscar as Best Supporting Actor for Cocoon (1985). Homeward Bound marked a return to Disney for Don as he had starred in the popular comedy The Boatniks (1970).

3. Fox Voices Dog When Emmy Award-winning TV and movie star Michael J. Fox voiced Milo Thatch in Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), animator John Pomeroy noted, “He was a virtuoso at the microphone, and he understood the situation and would improve it. He also improvised emotional nuances that weren’t in the script and made the character very sympathetic.” When Fox worked on Homeward Bound a few years earlier, he brought that same vocal skill to performing the voice of the enthusiastic American Bulldog pup, Chance.

4. The Animal Actors of Homeward Bound Each of the animal actors portraying the three four-footed leads worked for up to seven weeks before shooting even began. Each responded to voice and sound commands, and each was rewarded for its performance not with movie-star perks, but with liver treats. The heart of Homeward Bound is of course the unusual bond between the three, which meant normal canine and feline conflict had to be dealt with. “There are certain restrictions to working with dogs and cats together,” said head dog trainer Gary “Sam” Vaughn. “But there are rewards, too. By nature, they don’t get along. But our animals spent so much time together that they have become very close. These animals developed affections for each other and the actors that come through on screen.” Added veteran animal coordinator and trainer Joe Camp, “This is the first time where you have animals, not just performing a behavior, but actually their behaviors interacted between each other. They’re in a sense communicating with their partner.”

5. Beauties and the Beasts Homeward Bound has quite a Disney animation pedigree. Along with Donald W. Ernst, co-producer of Aladdin (1992), Kirk Wise, co-director of Beauty and the Beast (1991), served as executive producer . In that capacity, Wise supervised the writing and recording of the animals’ dialogue and was involved in casting the voice talents. Screenwriter Linda Woolverton came to Homeward Bound after penning the screenplay for Beauty and the Beast , while co-screenwriter Caroline Thompson also wrote Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas , released in 1993, the same year as Homeward Bound .

6. Stand-In Pets and Supporting Players Ben, Rattler, and Tiki, the main animals portraying Shadow, Chance, and Sassy, receive star billing in the film, but, in reality, Chance and Shadow were each played by four dogs, while Sassy was played by 10 cats. The additional animals were brought in to perform specialty actions or simply to give the lead animal performers a break. Other animals in the Homeward Bound cast include a mountain lion, an owl, black bears, a porcupine, and a skunk.

7. Chance, Sassy and Shadow’s Human Family The first Incredible Journey film adaptation focused primarily on the animals’ journey, but this later version was expanded to examine the special bond between a child and his pet, especially as exemplified by Peter (Benj Thall) and his relationship with Shadow. “There is a magic between children and animals that adults can’t touch,” observed co-producer Mack Bing. “This magic was evident on and off screen. There’s an almost visible chemistry in that special relationship that makes this film work.” Producer Jeffrey Chernov added, “To me, the most important part of this movie is about family. The human characters don’t start out as a solid family, but they grow into one.” The animals’ family is named Burnford in honor of the original book’s author.

8. Incredible Journey, Incredible Scenery Though the original book and movie took place in Ontario, Canada, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is set in California as the pets’ trek takes them through the wilds of the Sierras. In reality the movie was filmed in Oregon. “Oregon is a popular site for filmmaking because of its varied topography,” location manager Mark C. Hughes said. ”In this film, we used parts of downtown Portland to substitute for San Francisco; eastern Oregon to serve as Bishop, California, and the Eagle Cap Wilderness area, which bears a striking resemblance to the Sierra Nevadas.” Filming took place from August through October 1991. Midway through the project, the film crew packed their cameras and equipment on mules and horses and rode more than 15 miles of protected wilderness areas into the Eagle Cap area in the Wallow Mountains for three days of filming in the forest. “My job was almost made easier by Mother Nature,” said production designer Roger Cain. “You look around to decide what needs to be done to the surroundings and realize that there’s no way you can improve on the grandeur of the scenery. I think that the audience will feel awed by how remote a journey these animals are on.”

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Homeward Bound filming locations

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Homeward Bound filming locations: Homeward Bound is an Adventure, Comedy , Drama, and Family film which is directed by Duwayne Dunham and Penned by Sheila Burnford , Caroline Thompson, and Linda Woolverton .

This Adventure film was based on Sheila Burnford’s 1961 novel of the same name. The Film stars, Michael J. Fox, Don Ameche, Sally Field, Robert Hays , Kim Greist, Veronica Lauren, Kevin Chevalia, Benj Thall, and many more…

Table of Contents

When and Where Was Homeward Bound filmed?

Homeward Bound filming locations film is filmed entirely in the United States of America (USA). Principal photography and shooting of this Adventure Film began on August 1991 , and ended on October 1991 , particularly in Oregon and California .

Homeward Bound Filming Locations-

Here is a guide to all the locations of Homeward Bound Filming Locations:

Are you one of those who loves to discover the filming locations of your favorite Movies or TV Series? This is the right place for you to check the filming locations for various movies and tv series. In the below article, we will see the different places where the Film was filmed.

📍Oregon, USA

Oregon is a US state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and the primary filming location of this film which is noted for its outdoor recreational opportunities, and diverse landscape, including scenic bikeways, beautiful lakes, and lush forests. Salem is the Capital of Oregon.

Various locations in Oregon were used for the filming of this movie. Now without wasting any moment let’s get to know about the places in the US state Oregon where the “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey” Film was shot:-

📍Columbia River Gorge, Oregon, USA

Address: Oregon, United States

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a Hiking area in the United States of America that is mainly located in the Pacific Northwest, The river, which flows through the Cascade Range, forms the border between Washington State and Oregon to the south. Some scenes around the Columbia River Gorge can be seen in the background of the film.

📍Bend, Oregon, USA

Bend is a City which is located on Oregon’s Deschutes River, Noted for its stunning natural landscapes, popular food scene, and outdoor recreational activities. You can see some scenes from Bend, Oregon, USA in the background of this movie.

📍Eagle Cap Wilderness Area, Oregon, USA

Address: Lostine, OR 97814, United States

Eagle Cap Wilderness is a Hiking area in Oregon, particularly located in the Wallowa Mountains of northeastern Oregon, The film has also been shot around this hiking area.

📍Willamette National Forest, Oregon, USA

Address: Blue River, OR 97413, United States

Willamette National Forest is a National Forest in Oregon, primarily located in the central portion of the Cascade Range, Which is spread over more than 1,678,031 acres of land, including seven major mountain peaks. The waterfall scenes featured in the movie were shot around Willamette National Forest.

📍Redmond, Oregon, USA

Redmond is a City in Oregon’s Deschutes County, Which was established on July 6, 1910. You can see the nearby scenes of this city located in Deschutes County in the background of the film.

📍Brooklyn Intermodal Rail Yard – 1862 SE Holgate Boulevard, Portland, Oregon, USA

Address: 1862 SE Holgate Blvd, Portland, OR 97202, United States

Union Pacific – Brooklyn (Portland) is a Railroad company in Portland, Oregon, Portland is a City in Oregon, The production team also used the Brooklyn Intermodal Rail Yard, located at 1862 Holgate Boulevard in Portland, Oregon, for filming.

📍Hixon Bridge, Shevlin Park, Bend, Oregon, USA

Address: Oregon 97703, United States

Hixon Crossing is a Bridge in Oregon, The Hixon Bridge in Shevlin Park in Bend, Oregon, where a scene from the movie Covered Bridge, Demolished in 2019 was shot.

Other locations in Oregon where scenes for the movie Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey were filmed are listed in this table:-

In addition to the locations listed above, various Oregon locations were used in the making of this heart-touching film, Including:-

• Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
• Deschutes National Forest
• Mount Hood National Forest

Freels Ranch – featured in the film as Kate’s Ranch, located at 63246 Hurricane Creek Road in Enterprise, Oregon.

📍San Francisco, California, USA

California is a western U.S. state, has a Hollywood sign which adds to its beauty, the venue includes studios such as Universal, Paramount Pictures, and Warner Bros. that offer behind-the-scenes tours. Sacramento is the Capital of California.

San Francisco, formally located in northern California, The place is formally a major commercial, cultural, and financial center of the state of California.

San Francisco is also one of the selected locations for the filming The film Features the establishing shot of San Francisco. Mainly San Francisco’s Frederick Street & Clayton Street were used for filming.

Homeward Bound Synopsis

A spunky American Bulldog puppy, a hilarious Himalayan cat, and a wise old Golden Retriever all set out on a long journey to reach their loving owners, This adventure takes them through the rugged wilderness of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Homeward Bound Official Trailer

The 1993 American adventure comedy film “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey” was released on February 3, 1993, in the United States by Walt Disney Pictures and Buena Vista Pictures Distribution .

Homeward Bound is Available to Watch on Disney Plus , Prime Video , Vudu, or Apple TV . (External Link: IMDB )

What is the Filming Location of the Homeward Bound?

Homeward Bound was Filmed in the USA.

When was Homeward Bound filmed?

Homeward Bound filming started on

Where can you watch Homeward Bound?

Homeward Bound is Available to Watch on Disney Plus, Prime Video, Vudu, or Apple TV.

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i enjoy working as a Senior Editor at A2z Filming Location. I love watching series and movies. Traveling is a big part of my life. More by Riya G

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