Created by Taylor Sheridan, the hit TV series Yellowstone has captivated audiences with its intense drama and breathtaking scenery. The show follows the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton, as they go through power struggles and conflicts to protect their family legacy, the sprawling ranch in Montana.

The show’s authentic portrayal of the American West owes much to its real-world filming locations. This article will guide you through the various filming locations of the Yellowstone TV show, providing fans and travelers with insights into the places that bring this iconic show to life.

Filming Location of Yellowstone TV Show

Unlike many TV shows that rely heavily on studio sets, Yellowstone is filmed on location, offering viewers a genuine look at the American West. Let’s explore each season’s unique setting.

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Yellowstone Season 1-3 Filming Locations

The primary filming location in Yellowstone is the Chief Joseph Ranch in Darby, Montana, which serves as the Dutton family’s home. This working ranch offers tours, allowing fans to explore the iconic house and the surrounding scenery.

Other than that, the initial seasons of Yellowstone were primarily filmed in Utah, showcasing the rugged beauty of the state.

Chief Joseph Ranch, Montana

The real-life Dutton Ranch is located in Darby, Montana. Known as Chief Joseph Ranch, this working ranch doubles as the Dutton family’s home in the series. The beautiful log mansion and surrounding landscapes provide the iconic backdrop for many scenes.

Park City, Utah

This iconic ski town served as a base for much of the production. You might recognize locations like Main Street and the surrounding areas from the show. When you’re not chasing Yellowstone ghosts, Park City offers world-class skiing, charming shops, and a vibrant après-ski scene.

Salt Lake City, Utah

Several scenes, especially those involving urban settings and flashbacks in Season 2, were filmed in and around Salt Lake City. The city’s diverse locations allowed the production team to recreate various settings required by the script.

Ogden and Heber City

These picturesque towns are nestled amidst magnificent mountain ranges and have provided the backdrop for a variety of scenes throughout the first three seasons.

Spanish Fork, Utah

This city provided a rugged and atmospheric setting for several town scenes. In real life, Spanish Fork Canyon is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

Helena, Montana

Helena’s historic sites and beautiful landscapes provided a backdrop for several episodes. Visitors can explore the Montana State Capitol and other attractions.

Yellowstone Season 4 Filming Locations

Season 4 of Yellowstone continued to shoot outdoors at Chief Joseph Ranch, while moving the production north to Montana. The filming locations also expand to Texas, providing fresh landscapes for the evolving storyline.

Missoula, Montana

Many scenes from Season 4 were filmed in and around Missoula. With its lush forests and mountainous terrain, the area offers another perspective on Montana’s beauty. Keep an eye out for landmarks such as Ryman Street and Ruby’s Café, which played an important role in a memorable shootout scene. Missoula itself is a charming city with a rich cultural scene, craft breweries, and numerous outdoor adventures.

Darby, Montana

The town of Darby, located near the Chief Joseph Ranch, was also featured in season 4. Darby’s small-town charm and beautiful scenery provided an ideal backdrop for several scenes.

Weatherford, Texas

The production team ventured into Texas to film key scenes. Weatherford’s picturesque ranches and open fields brought a new dimension to the series’ setting.

Livingston, Bozeman, and Helena, Montana

These Montana cities have also served as filming locations for the TV show Yellowstone. Livingston offers a historic downtown and access to Yellowstone National Park, while Bozeman is a hub for outdoor activities and a growing craft beer scene. Helena, Montana’s capital city, boasts a rich history and stunning architecture.

Yellowstone Season 5 Filming Locations

Season 5 of Yellowstone continues to showcase Montana’s stunning landscapes, filming in a variety of cities including Helena and Missoula, while introducing some new locations to keep things visually fresh.

Hamilton, Montana

Hamilton, another scenic town in Montana, served as a primary filming location for Season 5. Its charming downtown and surrounding areas provided the perfect backdrop for several pivotal scenes.

Fort Worth, Texas

Returning to Texas, the series filmed additional scenes in Fort Worth. The city’s historic sites and vibrant culture added depth to the show’s narrative.

Other Behind-the-Scenes Fun Facts

The authenticity of Yellowstone goes beyond its locations. Here are some behind-the-scenes fun facts:

• Real cowboys: Many of the cowboys featured in the show are real-life ranchers and rodeo stars, adding to the series’ authenticity.
• Kevin Costner’s involvement: Kevin Costner not only stars in the series but also plays a significant role in its production, ensuring the portrayal of ranch life is as accurate as possible.
• Local economies: Filming Yellowstone on location has positively impacted local economies, providing jobs and boosting tourism in the areas where the series is shot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Yellowstone Filmed on Location?

Yes, Yellowstone is primarily filmed on location in Montana and Utah. The series uses real ranches and natural landscapes to enhance its authenticity.

Did Yellowstone Change Filming Locations?

While the core filming locations have remained consistent, the series has expanded to include new locations such as Texas in later seasons to introduce fresh settings and storylines.

Was Longmire and Yellowstone Filmed in the Same Location?

No, Longmire and Yellowstone were filmed in different locations. Longmire was primarily filmed in New Mexico, while Yellowstone is filmed in Montana and Utah.

When Does Yellowstone Return?

Season 5 of Yellowstone is split into two parts, a decision that was likely influenced by production schedules and storyline development. This format allows for a more detailed exploration of the show’s complex plot and character arcs. However, due to delays in filming, fans faced a long wait between the Part 1 and Part 2.

As of now, Paramount has announced that the final episodes of the 5th season of Yellowstone will air on November 10, 2024.

In conclusion, the filming locations of Yellowstone significantly contribute to the show’s visual appeal and authenticity. For fans and travelers, visiting these locations offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of Yellowstone and experience the stunning beauty and rugged charm that make the show so compelling.