Yellowstone is a hit TV series that has captured the hearts of viewers around the globe with its intense family drama, stunning landscapes, and, ahem, its iconic ranch setting. Central to this series is the home of the Dutton family, which is a stunning and historic house that has become a cultural icon for enthusiasts of the show. Dubbed the “Yellowstone house,” this grand lodge not only acts as the heart of the series, but has a colorful history all its own.
So, let’s strap in for everything there is to know about the Yellowstone house!
Location of Yellowstone National Park
Location in Yellowstone
What really sets Yellowstone apart are its breathtaking, Montana-meets-the-Scenic-Route views. Whether the sweeping meadows, crystal-clear rivers, or sky-scraping mountains, the setting of the show plays an integral part in the immersion of the viewers into the boundless and untamed lifestyle of the Dutton family.
Montana’s natural beauty elevates not just the storytelling but the land itself is a character in the film. Although most of the series takes place on location at the ranch, there have been many other key areas in Montana and Utah that have been used to help make the Yellowstone world a reality. This includes the Bitterroot Valley that describes cowboy life to a T and Park City, Utah, the setting of some of the shooting.
Yellowstone Dutton Ranch: An Introduction
Central to everything is the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch — the beating heart of the series. The ranch is home and base to the Dutton family, much of the show’s drama takes place there. It’s more than simply a house; it’s the heart of the family legacy and a symbol of their struggle to keep their land. The Dutton power struggles and personality clashes, though in focus, take place against the backdrop of this evergreen piece of land, providing permanent, Western context to the storyline being spun.
What is the Name of the House Used for’ Yellowstone?
The Chief Joseph Ranch
That house you see in Yellowstone belongs to Chief Joseph Ranch in Darby, Montana. This iconic property isn’t some fictional haze; it’s a working ranch with a storied past. First named the Shelton Ranch, it became the Ford-Hollister Ranch before it was named the Chief Joseph Ranch. Its name pays homage to Chief Joseph, a previous leader of the Nez Perce tribe who is a prominent figure in Native American history.
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The sprawling property covers more than 2,500 acres and includes everything from lush pastures to picturesque mountain views. But at the core of the ranch is the historic lodge that serves as the Dutton family home on-screen.
The Ford-Hollister Lodge
The lodge itself, known as the Ford-Hollister Lodge, is an incredible log home built in the early 1900s. The lodge, designed by the acclaimed architect Bates & Gamble, was built for glass magnate William S. Ford and his family. With towering timber beams, a river-rock fireplace and an open great room, the lodge epitomizes rustic elegance.
For fans of the show, this isn’t just a setting; it’s a character in its own right. From family dinners at the dining-room table to angry clashes in the great room, the Ford-Hollister Lodge has served as the setting for some of Yellowstone’s most memorable scenes.
History of Chief Joseph Ranch
History and Cultural Importance
The ranch is named after Chief Joseph, the beloved leader of the Nez Perce tribe who fought against the U.S. government’s attempts to move the tribe onto a reservation. The ranch has a deep historical connection, adding significance to the ranch within the context of the cultural heritage of the region.
Today known as the Double Bar Ranch, the ranch exchanged owners several times through the years. Designed as a private retreat for William S. Ford, who aspired to build a lavish getaway in the midst of Montana’s natural splendor, it was originally created to be a private haven. Shane and Angela Libel bought it in 1987, and the pair have embraced the property’s role as a shooting location for Yellowstone.
Architectural Highlights
A masterpiece of Western architecture, the lodge melds rustic charm with sophisticated design. Here are some of its key features:
| Feature | Description |
| Timber Roof | A single-tree timber roof beam showcases the craftsmanship of early 20th-century builders. |
| River-Rock Fireplace | A massive fireplace made of river rocks serves as the centerpiece of the great room. |
| Two-Story Great Room | The lodge’s great room boasts soaring ceilings and expansive windows with breathtaking views. |
Not only do these architectural elements make the lodge visually gorgeous, they give the structure the authenticity needed for its purpose in Yellowstone.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Filming at Chief Joseph Ranch
Shooting a blockbuster TV show like Yellowstone at an actual ranch is not without its complications. To protect the property, the production team goes to extra lengths, such as laying protective mats over floors and restricting access to certain spaces. In spite of these challenges, ranch owners have made the most of the experience, sharing their own stories of life in a filming site.
Living in a Filming Location
The ranch’s owner, Shane Libel, has offered interesting insights into what it’s like to live in a house that appears on one of the most popular shows on television. “It is surreal but it’s been a good experience because it allows me to share this small piece of paradise with millions of viewers,” Libel said.
The Cultural Significance of the Yellowstone House
Popularity Among Fans
Thanks to the success of Yellowstone the house has become a cultural icon, embodying the rugged beauty of Montana and the timeless appeal of life in the West. Fans of the show frequently consider the house to be a character in its own right, marveling at its rustic charm and classic design.
Impact on Tourism
Due to Yellowstone’s popularity, the Chief Joseph Ranch has become a bucket-list destination for fans. Visitors sleep in cabins with names like “Lee Dutton” and “Rip Wheeler,” bringing them into the world of the program. Although cabin rentals are on hold until 2026, the ranch’s notoriety draws visitors the world over.
Visiting Chief Joseph Ranch
Guest Experience
And for those fortunate enough to visit the Chief Joseph Ranch, it’s truly one of a kind. Guests can partake in horseback riding, cattle ranching and admiring the beautiful landscape of Montana. The ranch’s cabins are cozy as well as authentic, but with all the conveniences of modern living.
What to Expect
When you take a trip to your ranch, you might get used to stunning views, from rolling hills to rapids. It’s an ideal getaway for those who want to experience a taste of the cowboy lifestyle.
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- The Roof Beam: One timber beam supports the lodge’s roof, displaying the incredible skill of its builders.
- Memorable Moments: Some of Yellowstone’s iconic most scenes, including family dinners and meaningful conversations, were filmed in the lodge’s great room.
The attire is historic if you have time but it’s the historic property that is really at risk here.
Conclusion
The Yellowstone house — situated at the Chief Joseph Ranch — is not simply a filming location, this location embodies the heart and soul of the show. Whether it’s its storied history or stunning architecture, the lodge has found itself the muse of fans across the globe. If you’re a fan of the Western culture or just a die-hard Yellowstone fan, the Yellowstone house is a diamond in the rough and should be seen.
So what do you think of the Yellowstone house? Then, would you want to site this iconic destination? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to plan your trip to the Chief Joseph Ranch when it opens back up to guests in 2026!
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