Yellowstone Filming Locations: Where is Yellowstone Filmed? (Seasons 1-3)
I finally started watching Yellowstone after the first three seasons came out and when I say I was hooked, I mean I was HOOKED! I was so skeptical at first, but it’s got such a good plot line, plenty of drama, and suspence that will make you stay up until 1am just to see what happens. Also…Rip.
The show just so happens to be based outside one of my favorite towns: Bozeman! After living there for two years, it was really cool to see shots of Bozeman’s downtown in the show and know that we drove past those locations every day. This got me thinking…where is the Dutton Ranch? Is everything actually filmed in Montana? If you’re a fan of the show, keep reading to find out the answers to these questions and the filming locations in Yellowstone.
Where is Yellowstone Filmed?
Much to my surprise, a lot of Yellowstone filming locations for the first three seasons are in Utah – almost 75% of the show! This was a little disappointing to learn, the 4th season was entirely shot in Montana. This was mainly a financial decision since it sounds like they were getting tax cuts in Utah which stopped after season 3.
Personally, I was a little disappointed to learn this! However, I was happy to know that the Dutton Ranch is one of the locations that is actually filmed in Montana – read more about that further down.
All the Nature is Real
None of the mountains, rivers, lakes, or beautiful landscapes are computer-generated. They’re all real. Having lived in the area for two years, I don’t find that hard to believe. The scenery around Bozeman is incredible – why wouldn’t you use it?
–> Read more: Montana Scenic Drive starting in Bozeman <–
Of course, this means that a lot of the filming is weather-dependant. If the weather is particularly bad one day, the crew has to either take the day off, or film indoor shots until the weather is good again.
Dutton Ranch Filming Location
The Dutton Ranch is one of the few places that is filmed in Montana and it’s a real working ranch! The ranch is actually called the Chief Joseph Ranch and is located in Darby, Montana. The lodge is currently a family home and the owner’s family lives in the log mansion year-round unless Yellowstone is filming. They also rent out the two cabins on the ranch – The Ben Cook Cabin (where both Rip and Casey have lived in the show) and the Fisherman’s Cabin (where Lee lived in seasons one and two). Just make sure to book far in advance as they book up quickly.
This ranch is the location for all of the cabins, the lodge, the barns, the corrals, the bunkhouse, Rip’s childhood home, and more in the show. If you want to visit and just take pictures from the gate, the family doesn’t mind at all. However, security won’t allow it during filming to keep the driveway clear for the crew.
Here is the official address:
Chief Joseph Ranch
125 Appaloosa Trail,
Darby, Montana 59829.
Find more info on their website!
Downtown Bozeman
Downtown Bozeman shows up quite a bit in the show and certain scenes are actually filmed in downtown Bozeman! A lot of the nightlife is filmed in Utah (read further down for info on that), but some scenes are distinctly Bozeman. I don’t really have any credible sources for this, accept my own knowledge of what downtown Bozeman looks like.
I saw the spinning horse above the “Bicycles and XC Skis” sign every time I drove downtown and that horse has made it into a few scenes in Yellowstone.
Governer’s Office
The Governer’s Office and court scenes are filmed in Helena, Montana at the State Capital Building. This is one of the filming locations for Yellowstone that makes a lot of sense since one would assume the Governer’s office would be in the capital of the state.
Dan Jenkins’ Lodge
Dan Jenkins’ Lodge is located in Park City, Utah. It’s the Nicklaus Clubhouse which offers membership for golfers, horseback riders, people who own property through them, and social members. There are a number of activities to do onsite as well as a restaurant and pro shop.
Find out more on their website!
–> Planning a trip to Montana? Here are some of the most unique experiences you can have! <–
Rodeo Scenes
The Spanish Fork Fairgrounds in Utah is the filming location for all of the rodeo scenes. This is where Jimmy learned he loved to bullride and where it almost cost him his life. If you’re interested in attending a real rodeo here, plan a trip to this area in July during their Fiesta Days Rodeo!
Visit their website to buy tickets!
Nightclub Scenes
Most of the nightclub scenese where Beth always seemed to be stirring up trouble (but that’s why we love her, right?) are filmed at the Outlaw Saloon in West Haven, UT. They have live music and dance lessons!
Visit their website for more info on this!
Plan a Trip to See it All
If you’re a Yellowstone super fan, I know what you might be thinking – how do I see it all??
If you’re looking to plan a trip to see all of the Yellowstone filming locations, here’s what I’d do:
Start in Bozeman, Montana. Explore the downtown area where you’ll find a lot of shopping and great restaurants. Here is a list of the best boutiques to shop at in Bozeman. There are a ton of other things to do in Bozeman, but if we’re sticking to filming locations, your next stop will be Helena. Check out the capital building where self-guided tour brochures are available.
The next stop will be Chief Joseph Ranch. If you can, book a stay in one of the two cabins that are prominent on the show. You can fish, horseback ride, and pretend you’re doing it all alongside Kevin Costner! If you don’t have time for all that, simply stop by to see the Dutton Ranch in person and snap a few photos.
After you visit the Dutton Ranch, you’ll head south through Idaho and into Utah. Your first stop in Utah will be the Outlaw Saloon to party Beth-style. You can take dancing lessons or just stop in and have a beer. Next up is Park City Utah to see Dan Jenkins’ Lodge, aka Nicklaus Clubhouse. Lastly, you’ll finish at the Spanish Fork Fairground to see where the Rodeos are filmed. If you’re able to make this trip in July, you can even catch a real rodeo here!
The Comments
Karen
It would be really fun to see all those beautiful places used for filming. It’s so funny that none of it is really Yellowstone. I haven’t seen the show but I’ll have to look for it. I’ve loved Yellowstone every time I’ve visited.
Jamie Sharpe
I love this show so so much and I’d love to check out the filming locations. I don’t think it’s realistic for now but as soon as the pandemic is over!
Ildiko
I have never seen this show and don’t watch much tv at all. But the locations, no doubt, are beautiful. I would love to hike in Yellowstone one day. Thanks for sharing.
Elena Pappalardo
Such a unique post idea – love it! I honestly had no idea all these filming locations were here!
Joe
> Elena PappalardoThe downtown scenes for Yellowstone were filmed in downtown Ogden, Utah for the first seasons.
Krista
I love learning about the real life filming locations of scenes in tv shows and movies! I haven’t been to this part of the states yet but can’t wait to start planning a trip.
Farrah
I haven’t seen the show yet but I’ve always wanted to check out Yellowstone in person! It’d be fun to get to explore these locations someday!
Megan
I haven’t seen Yellowstone (yet!) but I’ve heard all about it. What beautiful country it takes place in!
Greta
A lot of the downtown Bozeman scenes were filmed on historic 25th street in Ogden, Utah. You can see this most notably during some coffee shop scenes which were filmed in the Grounds for Coffee on that street as well as when Monica has her encounter at the boutique. It’s a very cool and popular street to visit with local shops, restaurants and bars and summer concerts. It would also be on the way to park city if one wished to stop there on the way!
saraharnstein
> GretaThank you for adding that! I was actually wondering where that boutique was, so that’s interesting. I know at least some of the downtown scenes were actually in Bozeman, but it sounds like they switched back and forth!
Beverly
The scene in season 2 episode 5 where Sheriff Donnie is watching football and drinking a glass of whiskey and there is a knock on the door and it was a package on his doorstep. That was filmed in my house on 12th st. in Ogden, Utah. It was so much fun to watch them film. What an experience!
saraharnstein
> BeverlyOMG that sounds amazing! I can’t wait for the new season to start!!
K/C Ranch, Ron
I can understand why you might be a little disappointed that filming isn’t exclusive to Montana but when you look at the overall picture, it’s all Gods country and it’s beautiful!! Owning a small horse ranch in South Alabama I can relate to the entire feel of the plot that Taylor Sheridan has come up with, just wish I had a log house like that one, along with the mountains to look out over every morning and evening. This series hooked me from the very first episode. I’ve recorded the first three seasons twice and purchased the DVD set. 250 Satellite stations to watch and there’s nothing to watch so I go back to something I like.
saraharnstein
> K/C Ranch, RonYou’re very right! Although, I’ve heard that the entire 4th season is filmed in Montana, so if that’s true, I’ll secretly be happy about that!
Steve
The bar where the bull was released inside is the Maple Mountain Bar and Grill in Spanish Fork, Utah as well.
Devin
They filmed a part last summer in the wells fago building next to Missoula county court house. Another scene was shot wells ranch just past beaver tail pond. And they where making sets or shooting some scenes in one of the buildings next to work at the old Bonner mill site. Some scenes where shot at memorial hospital in Missoula. Still unsure of where the train station stop was I kinda think the rd going from Drummond to George Town lake.
saraharnstein
> DevinThanks for adding this! I’ve also wondered about the train station stop.
Dr j
> saraharnsteinYes my friends with the clothing store let the filmmakers use their shop to do the jewelry stores scenes.
The actual train station is located in North Ogden right next to my neighborhood and I’ve watched them film it personally.
Terry Rhodes
My family & I are looking forward to come out & ck. It all out
Bryson Barnett
Do you know where they film the train station scene? I’ve been told north Ogden divide ut where I live but can’t find any source
saraharnstein
> Bryson BarnettUnfortunately, I don’t know exactly where they film those scenes, but if I find out, I’ll come back to this post and add it in.
Brandi tanner
Huge fan of this show!!! Would absolutely love to see it all. Always been a dream to do this
Tressa Carter
Season 4 Ep 5 when Summer is arrested for protesting, at the end of the scene you see ‘Silver Dollar Bar’. That was shot in Missoula! Was going to an antique store and seen it! Knew I recognized it. Was told they’ve been filming all week at the courthouse.
rosella kendrick
we are fans of Yellowstone. started watching and just got hooked. we are in central New York and just love the country settings. Can’t wait for season 5. thank you for all the info. these are questions we have answered. we are hoping the floods aren’t going to hurt season 5. we love the Duttons and sure love Rip…
Lynette
Love the explanation a ND info. Hope to go next year!
Toni
Your passion for storytelling shines through, making the reader feel like they’re embarking on a journey through both the show’s scenes and the breathtaking natural beauty of Yellowstone. Thank you for sharing this captivating piece that not only celebrates the series but also encourages readers to explore the stunning surroundings that served as its backdrop. Your article is a true gem for those seeking to combine their love for film with a desire to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature.
saraharnstein
> ToniThis comment made my day. Thank you so much!