"Yellowstone," the gripping Paramount Network series, plunges viewers into the high-stakes world of the Dutton family, owners of the largest contiguous ranch in Montana. This fictional Yellowstone Dunton Ranch serves as the epicenter for intense drama, as the Duttons fiercely defend their generational land against relentless outside developers. The ensuing conflicts ripple outwards, impacting the neighboring Broken Rock Indian Reservation and the pristine landscapes of Yellowstone National Park. This modern-day Wild West unfolds in the vast expanse of Big Sky Country, where power struggles often lead to bloodshed.
The series, masterfully crafted by writer and director Taylor Sheridan, boasts a stellar cast of compelling characters. Kevin Costner embodies the formidable patriarch, John Dutton. Wes Bentley portrays the complex and often Machiavellian Jamie Dutton. Luke Grimes takes on the role of the self-sacrificing Kayce Dutton, while Kelly Reilly delivers a fiery performance as the sharp-tongued Beth Dutton. Cole Hauser embodies the tough-yet-romantic Rip Wheeler. Kelsey Asbille plays the thoughtful Monica Long, and Gil Birmingham brings depth to the character of Thomas Rainwater. The cast also includes Mo Brings Plenty, who plays a character of the same name.
Initially premiering in 2018, "Yellowstone" primarily filmed its first three seasons in and around Utah. However, production shifted to Montana for the fourth season and beyond, embracing the authentic landscapes that define the show’s setting.
Ogden and Other Utah Locations
Before the move to Montana, over 20 locations across Utah served as the backdrop for the show’s early seasons. These locations helped establish the visual identity of "Yellowstone," creating a sense of place that resonated with viewers.
In Ogden, Utah, a vibrant city known for its skiing, mountain biking, and hiking opportunities, you can find the exterior of the Schwartz & Meyer bank building, a prominent location in the series, at 2505 Lincoln Avenue. A stroll down 25th Street, a historic three-block shopping district brimming with restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries, will transport you directly into scenes from the show. For the complete "Yellowstone" experience, consider visiting The Outlaw Saloon for a drink or attending the Ogden Pioneer Days rodeo at the Odgen Pioneer Stadium.
About an hour south of Ogden, in Spanish Fork, the Utah County Fairgrounds provides the setting for the show’s thrilling rodeo sequences.
In Park City, viewers can catch a glimpse of Dan Jenkins’ luxurious lodge at the Nicklaus Clubhouse in Promontory Point. Dinner reservations at The Peak restaurant or sunset views from the View Deck offer a taste of the high life depicted in the series.
Missoula, Montana
With the series’ production headquarters now situated in Montana, Missoula and its surrounding areas play a central role in shaping the visual narrative of "Yellowstone."
In downtown Missoula, Ryman Street and Ruby’s Cafe serve as the backdrop for a memorable shoot-out scene. The Missoula Community Medical Center is also featured in a pivotal moment where Beth Dutton encounters Carter outside of the hospital. This location also served as John Dutton’s recovery room following the events of the season three finale.
Several scenes were filmed at The Missoula County Courthouse, located at 200 West Broadway, and the Garlington Building across the street. A protest scene takes place outside the fictional Livestock Association’s Livingston Field Office, a simple building located at the corner of Railroad Street and Woody Street in Missoula. Glen’s Cafe, located in Florence, 30 minutes south of Missoula, is where John Dutton ordered a Salisbury steak.
Just 19 miles north of Missoula, at the southern edge of the Flathead Reservation, lies the Gray Wolf Peak Casino.
Chief Joseph Ranch, Montana
Nestled in the charming town of Darby, approximately 90 minutes south of Missoula, stands the iconic Yellowstone Dunton Ranch, known in reality as the Chief Joseph Ranch. This ranch is one of the primary filming locations for the entire series. Situated near the Bitterroot Valley, with Trapper Peak providing a stunning backdrop, this historic landmark serves as both a family-owned working ranch and a guest ranch.
The land boasts a rich history, having been inhabited by the Salish Native American tribe for centuries. A trail used by Lewis and Clark, as well as the Nez Perce tribe, runs through the property. Chief Joseph himself traveled across this land in the late 1800s. Homesteaders first settled on the ranch, initially known as the Shelton Ranch, in 1880. William Ford and Howard Clark Hollister later acquired the property and began constructing the present-day lodge in 1917. The 6,000-square-foot Ford-Hollister lodge was officially renamed the Chief Joseph Ranch in the early 1950s.
While the Chief Joseph Ranch previously accepted guest reservations, it is not currently doing so.
Hamilton, Montana
Located an hour south of Missoula, in Hamilton, the show’s Montana Livestock Association building was filmed at 163 S. 2nd Street in the downtown area. The intense car chase scene was filmed on Meridian Road and Bear Creek Road, approximately 12 miles north of Hamilton.
The governor’s house is also located in Hamilton, within the Bitterroot Valley, at the Daly Mansion. This historic late-1800s Victorian home spans 24,000 square feet and now operates as a museum and wedding venue. The Daly Mansion is open to the public for guided tours, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
Helena, Montana
The Montana State Capital in Helena serves as the backdrop for the show’s governor’s office. Visitors can explore the capital building through video and virtual tours or experience it firsthand during guided tours led by the legislative services division in the summer. While the governor’s office is located in the actual state capital in season one, John Dutton is sworn in at Missoula County Courthouse in season five.
Crow Indian Reservation
Located in southern Montana, just 10 miles outside of Billings, lies the setting for the fictional Broken Rock Reservation, where Thomas Rainwater resides. The Crow Reservation, the largest reservation in Montana, with over two million acres, stands in for the fictional Broken Rock. The Tribal Casino is represented by the real Apasaalooke Nights Casino in Crow Agency.
Headquartered in Crow Agency, the Crow Tribe boasts a membership of approximately 11,000 and manages a herd of 300 bison. The Crow Native Days take place in June, followed by the Crow Fair and Rodeo in July.
Guthrie, Texas
In a plot twist during season four of "Yellowstone," the 6666 Ranch (also known as the Four Sixes Ranch) was introduced when Jimmy, a beloved ranch hand, was relocated there to hone his cowboy skills. The historic Four Sixes Ranch, established in 1870, is situated near Guthrie and specializes in American Quarter Horses and Angus cattle.
Visitors can explore the 6666 Supply House, which has stood in the same location since 1900. Taylor Sheridan owns the 6666 Ranch, which is rumored to be the setting for a new "Yellowstone" spinoff.
This complete guide to "Yellowstone" filming locations provides a glimpse into the real-world landscapes that bring the fictional world of the Dutton family to life. "Yellowstone" continues to captivate audiences with its dramatic storylines and breathtaking scenery. Exploring the filming locations of "Yellowstone" offers a unique opportunity to connect with the show on a deeper level and experience the beauty of the American West.
