Immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes and rich history of Wyoming as seen through the lens of cinema. This comprehensive travel guide takes you on a cinematic journey, exploring the towns, landscapes, and landmarks that have served as the backdrop for famous films, TV shows, and books.
10 Famous Films Shot in Wyoming
Wyoming’s diverse landscape has played a starring role in numerous renowned films. From the sweeping plains to the majestic mountains, the state’s natural beauty has captivated audiences worldwide.
Classic Films
- Shane (1953): Directed by George Stevens, this iconic western film was shot in the stunning Jackson Hole valley, with the towering Grand Teton mountains providing a dramatic backdrop.
- Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977): Directed by Steven Spielberg, the climactic scenes of this sci-fi classic were set at Devils Tower National Monument – the first national monument in the U.S.
- Heaven’s Gate (1980): Directed by Michael Cimino, this epic western film showcases the scenic beauty of Glacier National Park and the town of Kalispell.
- Brokeback Mountain (2005): Directed by Ang Lee, this critically acclaimed film beautifully captures the wide-open spaces of Wyoming, although most of it was filmed in Alberta, Canada. However, some scenes were shot in Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming.
Contemporary Films
- The Hateful Eight (2015): Directed by Quentin Tarantino, this western mystery thriller was shot in Telluride, Colorado, but the story is set in wintry, post-Civil War Wyoming.
- Wind River (2017): Directed by Taylor Sheridan, this murder mystery set on the Wind River Indian Reservation showcases the state’s rugged winter landscapes.
- Django Unchained (2012): Another Tarantino classic, this film features Wyoming’s National Elk Refuge and Grand Teton National Park.
- Free Solo (2018): This Oscar-winning documentary about free solo climber Alex Honnold includes breathtaking climbing scenes shot in Sinks Canyon.
- The Revenant (2015): Directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, this film depicting the survival story of frontiersman Hugh Glass was partially filmed in Wyoming, capturing the state’s raw and untamed beauty.
5 TV Shows Set in Wyoming
Wyoming’s unique charm and picturesque scenery have also made it a popular setting for TV shows.
- Longmire (2012-2017): This modern western crime drama, based on the “Walt Longmire” mystery novels by Craig Johnson, is set in the fictional Absaroka County, Wyoming.
- The Virginian (1962-1971): One of the first western dramas of American television, this show is set in Medicine Bow, Wyoming, and showcases the lifestyle of the late 19th-century Wild West.
- Hell on Wheels (2011-2016): This western drama, set in the 1860s, features parts of Wyoming as it follows the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad across the U.S.
- Yellowstone (2018-present): Although primarily filmed in Montana and Utah, this modern western drama is set in the Yellowstone region, which extends into Wyoming.
- Wild West Alaska (2013-2015): This reality TV series showcases the true spirit of the Wyoming wilderness, with its hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures.
5 Animated Films Set in Wyoming
The animation world has also found inspiration in Wyoming’s enchanting landscapes.
- Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron (2002): This animated film, set in the 19th century American West, features scenes inspired by Wyoming’s landscapes.
- Open Season (2006): In this animated adventure, the spectacular landscapes of Wyoming serve as the backdrop for the story of a domesticated grizzly bear and a wise-cracking mule deer.
- Home on the Range (2004): This Disney animated feature, set in the Old West, showcases landscapes inspired by the rustic charm of Wyoming.
- An American Tail: Fievel Goes West (1991): This animated western film, a sequel to “An American Tail,” sees the Mousekewitz family moving out West, with scenes inspired by Wyoming’s landscape.
- The Good Dinosaur (2015): Although not specifically set in Wyoming, the film’s animators were inspired by the state’s dramatic landscapes, especially the Teton Range and Yellowstone National Park.
Famous Books Set in Wyoming: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary
Wyoming’s rich history and cultural significance have also made it a popular setting for numerous literary works.
Classic Books
- “The Virginian” by Owen Wister: Often regarded as the first western novel, it paints a vivid picture of Wyoming’s ranching life in the late 19th century.
- “Riders of the Purple Sage” by Zane Grey: Another significant western novel set in the rugged landscapes of Wyoming.
- “Shane” by Jack Schaefer: This classic western novel, set in the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming, tells a story of homesteaders and cattle drivers.
Contemporary Books
- “Close Range: Wyoming Stories” by Annie Proulx: This collection of short stories captures the harsh and oftentimes bleak reality of life in modern Wyoming.
- “The Cold Dish” by Craig Johnson: The first in the “Walt Longmire” mystery series, it’s set in the fictional Absaroka County, Wyoming.
- “In Open Spaces” by Russell Rowland: This family saga is set in the vast ranchlands of early 20th-century Wyoming.
Exploring Wyoming’s Filming Locations – Where to Go
To fully immerse yourself in Wyoming’s cinematic history, there are several key locations you must visit.
- Jackson Hole: The filming location for the classic western “Shane,” Jackson Hole offers stunning views of the Grand Teton mountains and the Snake River.
- Devils Tower National Monument: Featured in “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” this geological marvel is a sight to behold.
- Bighorn National Forest: Featured in “Brokeback Mountain,” this forest area offers breathtaking vistas and numerous hiking trails.
- The National Elk Refuge: Featured in “Django Unchained,” this refuge offers viewing opportunities for large herds of elk.
- Sinks Canyon: Featured in “Free Solo,” the canyon is a popular spot for rock climbing and wildlife viewing.
Where to Sleep in Wyoming: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
Whether you’re looking for luxury lodges or budget-friendly inns, Wyoming has a wide range of accommodations to suit every preference and budget.
Budget Options
- Cowboy Village Resort in Jackson: This resort offers cozy, cabin-style accommodations with kitchenettes, close to the town square.
- Buffalo Bill Village in Cody: Offering rustic cabins, this property is conveniently located near the Yellowstone Regional Airport.
- Wind River Hotel & Casino in Riverton: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, with the added excitement of a casino.
Luxury Options
- Amangani in Jackson Hole: This luxury resort offers stunning mountain views, an outdoor pool, and a spa.
- The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga: Offering luxury cabins and lodges, this property also provides a variety of outdoor activities.
- Four Seasons Resort in Jackson Hole: This luxurious mountain resort offers easy access to skiing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Where to Eat in Wyoming: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
Experience the flavor of the West with Wyoming’s diverse culinary offerings, from upscale dining to budget-friendly eateries.
Budget Options
- Cowboy Cafe in Dubois: Serving hearty western fare, this local favorite is a great place to enjoy a meal without breaking the bank.
- The Middle Fork in Lander: This charming restaurant offers delicious breakfast and lunch options at reasonable prices.
- Bubba’s Bar-B-Que in Jackson: For authentic Wyoming barbecue, Bubba’s is the place to be.
Luxury Options
- The Granary in Jackson: With its stunning views of the Teton Range, this upscale restaurant offers a menu of regional cuisine.
- Snake River Grill in Jackson: Offering a sophisticated dining experience, this restaurant serves a range of dishes from steak to seafood.
- Jenny Lake Lodge Dining Room in Grand Teton National Park: For a luxury dining experience in a rustic setting, this restaurant offers a five-course rotating menu using local ingredients.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
To make the most of your cinematic journey in Wyoming, follow this detailed itinerary that explores key filming locations.
Day 1: Jackson Hole
- Start your day in Jackson Hole, the filming location for “Shane.”
- Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art.
- Take a scenic drive through the Grand Teton National Park.
- Enjoy dinner at The Granary, featured in “Django Unchained.”
Day 2: Devils Tower National Monument
- Visit Devils Tower National Monument, featured in “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.”
- Explore the surrounding area and take in the stunning views.
- Visit the town of Sundance and see the Sundance Kid statue.
- Stay overnight in the town of Gillette.
Day 3: Bighorn National Forest
- Head to Bighorn National Forest, featured in “Brokeback Mountain.”
- Enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Visit the historic town of Sheridan and explore its western heritage.
- Stay overnight in Buffalo, where parts of “Longmire” were filmed.
Day 4: National Elk Refuge
- Visit the National Elk Refuge, featured in “Django Unchained.”
- Take a wildlife tour to see the elk herds.
- Visit the nearby town of Cody, named after “Buffalo Bill” Cody.
- Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a complex of five museums.
Day 5: Sinks Canyon
- Head to Sinks Canyon, featured in “Free Solo.”
- Enjoy rock climbing, hiking, or wildlife viewing.
- Visit the nearby town of Lander and explore its historic Main Street.
- Stay overnight in Riverton, home to the Wind River Hotel & Casino.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities
Wyoming is also home to fascinating cryptid legends and curiosities, adding an element of mystery to your trip.
- Jackalope: The mythical creature, a jackrabbit with antelope horns, is said to inhabit the state and is even the official mythical creature of Wyoming.
- Devils Tower: This geological monument is not only a filming location but also a site of legends. Native American tribes have various stories about its origin involving bears.
- Bigfoot: Sightings of the elusive creature have been reported in the wilderness areas of Wyoming, particularly in the northwest.
Hidden Gems in Wyoming
Beyond the well-known landmarks, Wyoming also offers hidden gems that are off the beaten path.
- Saratoga Hot Springs: Enjoy a relaxing soak in these natural hot springs, located in the charming small town of Saratoga.
- Medicine Wheel/Medicine Mountain National Historic Landmark: This sacred site, located in the Bighorn National Forest, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Fort Laramie National Historic Site: Explore the preserved buildings of this 19th-century trading post and military fort.
What to Pack for a Trip to Wyoming
Depending on the time of year, packing for a trip to Wyoming can vary. Remember to pack layers as weather can change quickly. Don’t forget your camera to capture the cinematic landscapes, a good pair of binoculars for wildlife viewing, and sturdy shoes for hiking.
Transportation Tips
Getting around Wyoming can be done by car, bus, or even bike for shorter distances. The state also has several regional airports for quicker travel. Remember, Wyoming is a large state with significant distances between towns, so plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a bookworm, or a nature lover, Wyoming offers a unique travel experience. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and cinematic connections, a trip to Wyoming truly is like stepping into a scene from your favorite movie or book. So pack your bags, and embark on your own cinematic adventure in the Cowboy State!
