You Won't Believe Where Netflix's Ransom Canyon Was REALLY Filmed

Hint: You might find Netflix’s Ransom Canyon just as stunningly picturesque, if not more so, than Virgin River. However, there’s a significant difference between the two – unlike Virgin River, Ransom Canyon wasn’t shot in the location you may be imagining.

Transform the interpersonal relationships of Mel, Jack, Brady, Brie, and others into a desert setting, and you’ve created Ransom Canyon. Add a dash of Yellowstone-style land disputes for flavor, and the Netflix series elevates its soap opera structure to unprecedented heights.

In this instance, Staten and Quinn are again finding themselves in an on-again, off-again relationship. However, trouble brews as Staten’s ranch is marked for oil drilling by adversary Davis. Alongside fellow rancher Cap, they strive to preserve their heritage amidst the looming threat of newcomer Yancy, whose storied past promises to bring even more intrigue and turmoil.

In the midst of turmoil lies the captivating scenery of Ransom Canyon, magically transforming from barren plains into a typical American small town. However, you might be surprised to learn that the TV series wasn’t shot in the location you envision.

The real Ransom Canyon looks nothing like it needs to

As a dedicated gamer diving into the world of Ransom Canyon through the pages of Jodi Thomas’ books, I can’t help but feel a tad disappointed when comparing the vivid landscapes painted in my mind with the actual Texas town named Ransom Canyon. It seems that the creators of this show had to go on a hunt for a more authentic setting, eventually choosing New Mexico as their canvas.

A simple internet search of the actual location will make it clear what we’re referring to. Ransom Canyon, primarily, is a desert town, lacking the diverse landscapes one might expect. The visual style of the new TV show gives a strong hint that it’s set in New Mexico, with settings ranging from Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Las Vegas.

In her conversation with Netflix, Minka Kelly expressed, “Until this series, I’d never filmed in Albuquerque before. I felt apprehensive about returning as it’s a place I haven’t visited much since my less than ideal childhood.

Kelly went on to say, “Returning to these places from my childhood felt like dispelling the myth of the boogeyman. It was almost unbelievable to think that if the inhabitants of those times could see me here filming this show, they wouldn’t have believed it. There was a certain divine beauty to it all.

Alongside Jack Schumacher, my co-star added his thoughts: “This location is incredibly beautiful. Riding a horse around this picturesque ranch, you can’t help but feel as if you’ve stepped right into the world of our characters.

Ransom Canyon filming locations in New Mexico

Davis’ Bar W Ranch

Among the initial settings in Ransom Canyon lies Davis’ Bar W Ranch, where everyone gathers for a party prior to Randall’s car accident. The actual Blame Her Ranch is situated approximately 45 minutes beyond Santa Fe, nestled at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level with expansive views stretching over 70 miles.

This area lies at the edge of Santa Fe National Forest, featuring a mix of grassy plains and temporary water bodies during different seasons. Speaking about it, location scout Ashley Valdez shared with House Beautiful, “The vistas are simply stunning. It’s truly awe-inspiring the first time you lay your eyes on it.

The television show offers an extensive, on-screen walkthrough of the house, featuring amenities such as a home theater, game room, fitness center, and a unique outdoor hot tub shaped like a cauldron that is worth noting.

Staten’s Double K Ranch

Staton’s ranch plays a pivotal role in the plot as it shares the most resemblance to Yellowstone among all the locations, and it’s strategically situated. The Double K Ranch, more famously known as Dead Horse Ranch, lies nestled midway between Las Vegas and Santa Fe.

In the TV series, the horse barns you notice aren’t just sets; they actually belong to the larger estate, complete with 11 wells, a spring-fed water source, and two beautiful ponds nestled within the property itself.

Josh Duhamel shared with Tudum his real-life home’s resemblance, stating, “Being from North Dakota, I also own a place in Minnesota that I’ve put a lot of effort into developing. My plan is to raise my children there, and hopefully one day they’ll inherit it and pass it down to their kids.

Cap’s ranch

Primarily, we find ourselves either relaxing in Cap’s lounge or working around the stables with Yancy. However, the vastness of Buena Vista Ranch is quite remarkable, extending its boundaries through San Miguel, Mora, and Colfax counties.

On Ransom Canyon, the primary area is often referred to as the “main complex,” situated approximately 90 miles northwest of Santa Fe.

Quinn’s house

On the television series, we don’t call it a ranch, but in reality, Quinn’s home functions just like one. Interestingly, the Bonanza Creek Ranch, originally known as Jarrott Ranch, is situated within Santa Fe itself. Its story begins in the early 1950s as a simple cattle house. Today, it runs its own film industry, but continues to serve as a functional cattle farm as well.

The two-story building located on the property served as a set for the movie “Troublemakers” (or “The Fight Before Christmas”), and it was constructed in 1994.

Ransom Canyon town

Fun fact: You might be surprised to learn that the central setting of our made-up town, Ransom Canyon, is filmed right in Las Vegas itself! This is where you’ll find scenes set in Quinn’s dance hall, the local school, and even quick glimpses of the bustling town street.

Right now, you can catch the series “Ransom Canyon” on Netflix. If you’re interested in more great content, don’t forget to explore shows similar to “Virgin River”, new TV shows streaming this month, top-rated shows of the year thus far, and upcoming releases in 2025 that are definitely worth checking out!

2025-04-18 17:19

You Won’t Believe Where Netflix’s Ransom Canyon Was REALLY Filmed