As a native Montanan, I recently set off to see what “Yellowstone” locations look like in real life.
Jordan Parker Erb/Insider
I had put off watching “Yellowstone” long enough.
Having been born and raised in Montana, any mention I’ve made of my home state for the past five years has been met with questions along the lines of: “Is it like ‘Yellowstone?'”
In short, no. The modern-day western drama, with five seasons of blatant and unapologetic lawlessness, is a stark contrast to the sleepy state I grew up in. Centered on the Dutton family, led by patriarch John, “Yellowstone” boasts a cast that will do anything for their dynasty: the largest ranch in Montana. Think “Succession,” but with more cowboy hats.
But with the current season airing while I was home for the holidays, I figured it was time to settle in and learn about my culture. And within a few episodes, I realized there actually are a few things the TV show and the state have in common: settings.
Though some scenes are shot in Texas, Oregon, and Utah, many of the show’s locations really are scattered across Montana’s varied countryside — including the infamous Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. So I set out to see some of the locations for myself.