As a native of Montana, I recently set out to see what “Yellowstone” locations look like in real life.
Several “Yellowstone” scenes were filmed throughout Montana, including at the state’s Capitol Building. Jordan Parker Erb/Insider
I had put off watching “Yellowstone” long enough.
Because I was born and raised in Montana, every mention of my home state for the past five years has been met with questions like, “Is it like ‘Yellowstone’?”
In short, no. Five seasons of blatant and uncompromising lawlessness, this modern western drama is a stark contrast to the sleepy state I grew up in. “Yellowstone” revolves around the Dutton family, led by Patriarch John, and features a cast who 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 thought it was time to settle in and learn about my culture. And within a few episodes, I realized that there are actually a few things that the TV show and the state have in common: attitudes.
Though some scenes are shot in Texas, Oregon, and Utah, many of the series’ locations are truly scattered across Montana’s diverse landscape – including the infamous Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. So I set off to check out some of the places.