The hit series Yellowstone, captivating audiences through five seasons, unfolds against the stunning backdrop of the Montana countryside at the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. Patriarch John Dutton, portrayed by Kevin Costner, famously declared his ranch to be the size of Rhode Island. But for fans wondering about the authenticity of this iconic location, the question remains: Where Is The Yellowstone Ranch in real life?
Montana’s majestic landscapes are integral to Yellowstone‘s appeal, acting as a character in their own right alongside the Dutton family and their ranch hands. True to the series’ spirit, filming genuinely takes place in Montana, lending an authentic feel to the on-screen drama.
RELATED: Who Is Lainey Wilson? Everything to Know About This Powerhouse Country Star
Key locations across Montana contribute to the show’s visual identity. For instance, scenes set in the Governor’s Office, both before and after John Dutton’s election in Season 5, are filmed at the Montana State Capitol in Helena. Similarly, the poignant scenes at the Broken Rock Reservation are shot on the Crow Reservation in southern Montana, a vast expanse of over 2.2 million acres.
But what about the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch itself, the epicenter of family conflicts, land disputes, and the relentless drama that defines the series? Is it merely a set, or can fans actually pinpoint its location? The answer is yes, the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch is indeed a real place nestled in Montana. Let’s delve into the details of its actual location.
Is the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch a Real Place You Can Visit?
Yes, the iconic Yellowstone Dutton Ranch from the series is not just a figment of television magic; it’s a real working ranch located in the charming town of Darby, Montana. In reality, this breathtaking property is known as the Chief Joseph Ranch, a sprawling 2,500-acre cattle ranch owned and lovingly managed by Shane and Angela Libel and their family. The Libels acquired the land in 2012, several years before Yellowstone debuted in 2018, and have enthusiastically embraced the ranch’s newfound fame since the show’s immense popularity surged.
(Regarding John Dutton’s Rhode Island comparison, it’s worth noting that Chief Joseph Ranch’s 2,500 acres are considerably smaller than Rhode Island’s 1,214 square miles, which equates to approximately 776,960 acres.)
The name Chief Joseph Ranch carries historical weight, commemorating Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe who, in 1887, led his people across this land during their escape from the U.S. Army in the Nez Perce War, as detailed on the ranch’s website. Originally established as the Shelton Ranch in 1880, and later renamed the Ford-Hollister Ranch in 1914, the property was sold by owner William S. Ford, a glass industry magnate, in the 1950s. It was then officially christened Chief Joseph Ranch, honoring the legacy of the Nez Perce leader.
Season 4 Episode 9 of Yellowstone Photo: Peacock
The Ford-Hollister Lodge, the main house on the property, serves as the Dutton family’s imposing residence in Yellowstone. This 6,000-square-foot lodge, constructed from wood and stone, is actually the Libel family’s private home when Yellowstone is not in production. Fans will instantly recognize this structure from countless pivotal scenes: turbulent family dinners, late-night whiskey conversations by the fireplace, and many more dramatic moments.
“It’s incredibly humbling to sit in my living room and watch this show, filmed in my house, that’s viewed by millions worldwide,” Shane Libel shared with TV Insider. “It makes me realize that, for so many people, my house embodies quintessential Montana.”
The main lodge and other buildings on the ranch are historically significant, contributing to its designation as a historic landmark. Preserving this heritage is a priority for series location manager Mark Jarrett during filming.
“We used rubber mats to protect the wood floors. Crew members wore booties over their work boots when it rained,” Jarrett explained to the New York Post. “The entire crew respected that the ranch was a ‘hot’ set. Driving on the grass was strictly prohibited.”
Season 4 Episode 9 of Yellowstone Photo: Peacock
Visiting the Yellowstone Ranch: Can You Stay at Chief Joseph Ranch?
For avid Yellowstone enthusiasts, the dream of experiencing life on the Dutton Ranch is within reach. When filming is on hiatus, the Libel family extends a unique opportunity: fans can rent several cabins on the ranch, offering an immersive stay in the heart of Yellowstone country.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live and breathe the ranch lifestyle, Chief Joseph Ranch provides a chance to live that dream, albeit for a limited time and at a cost. Outside of filming periods, the Libel family rents out select properties on the ranch, allowing dedicated fans to spend the night and fully immerse themselves in the world of Yellowstone.
Two distinct cabins are available for rent, both of which have been prominently featured in the series.
John Dutton (Kevin Costner) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser) appear in Season 5 Episode 5 of Yellowstone. Photo: Peacock
Specifically, guests can choose between the Fisherman Cabin, known as the residence of the late Lee Dutton (Dave Annable), John’s eldest son who tragically passed away in Season 1, and the Ben Cook Cabin, the on-screen dwelling of Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser), John’s loyal right-hand man and Beth Dutton’s husband.
Related: Meet the Cast of Kevin Costner’s Must-Watch Neo-Western Yellowstone
Choosing to stay at Chief Joseph Ranch isn’t just accommodation; it’s an experience. Overnight stays include a guided walking tour of the ranch, showcasing the breathtaking Montana vistas that Yellowstone viewers have come to admire and cherish.
How to Watch Yellowstone
For those wanting to immerse themselves further in the Yellowstone universe before planning a visit, seasons 1-5 are readily available for streaming on Peacock.
Yellowstone Seasons 1-5 are available to stream on Peacock.
Peacock offers several subscription options, including a Premium plan at $7.99 per month (with ads) and a Premium Plus plan for $13.99 monthly (ad-free). A student discount Premium plan is also available for $1.99 for a full year of access.
