Western Montana's Glacier Country
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Introduction to Western montana's Glacier Country
Western Montana’s cinematic landscapes, Old West allure, and rich history have long inspired film producers, setting the stage for films like “The Revenant” and binge-worthy TV shows like “Yellowstone.” In addition to unrivaled landscapes, Glacier Country features more than 75 vibrant communities where you’ll find historic Western architecture and authentic, small-town Americana. You’ll also find ease of access and unmatched hospitality while filming here.
Film in Western Montana’s Glacier Country
Along with the Montana Film Office, Western Montana’s Glacier Country is here to help you find your next show-stopping location. Discover the perfect setting among idyllic panoramas, towering mountain backdrops, lush forestland, glistening waterways—like Flathead Lake—and endless rivers and streams. Set the scene in Western Montana’s Glacier Country.
A Few Filming Locations in Western Montana’s Glacier Country
Missoula
Libby
Darby
Kalispell
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Missoula
Halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone national parks is the city of Missoula, Montana’s cultural hub. The state’s second-largest city is home to ten historic districts and is surrounded by a vast mountain range that stretches far toward the horizon. This treasured locale has served as the setting for legendary classics in the Western genre, including the ongoing series “Yellowstone,” starring Kevin Costner.
A Few Filming Locations in Western Montana’s Glacier Country
Missoula
Halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone national parks is the city of Missoula, Montana’s cultural hub. The state’s second-largest city is home to ten historic districts and is surrounded by a vast mountain range that stretches far toward the horizon. This treasured locale has served as the setting for legendary classics in the Western genre, including the ongoing series “Yellowstone,” starring Kevin Costner.
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Libby
Libby sits at the base of the Cabinet Mountain Range in the Kootenai River Valley and combines authentic mountain experiences and breathtaking scenery with abundant outdoor recreation. Area attractions include Libby Dam, Ross Creek Cedar Grove, the Kootenai River and Kootenai Falls, seen in 2015’s “The Revenant” with Leonardo DiCaprio. This location is also notable for the Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge, located above Kootenai Falls.
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Libby
Libby sits at the base of the Cabinet Mountain Range in Kootenai River Valley and combines authentic mountain experiences and breathtaking scenery with abundant outdoor recreation. Area attractions include Libby Dam, Ross Creek Cedar Grove, the Kootenai River and Kootenai Falls, seen in 2015’s “The Revenant” with Leonardo DiCaprio. This location is also notable for the Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge, located above Kootenai Falls.
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Darby
Darby sits at the southern tip of the Bitterroot Valley and is home to local antique shops and old-fashioned candy stores, with the surrounding area offering authentic lodges and cabins. Some highlights include Lake Como, Painted Rocks State Park and Alta Ranger Station. Darby is also a primary filming location for the “Yellowstone” series, as the Dutton Ranch is located there.
Darby
Darby sits at the southern tip of the Bitterroot Valley and is home to local antique shops and old-fashioned candy stores, with the surrounding area offering authentic lodges and cabins. Some highlights include Lake Como, Painted Rocks State Park and Alta Ranger Station. Darby is also a primary filming location for the “Yellowstone” series, as the Dutton Ranch is located there.
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Kalispell
Kalispell is a vibrant mountain town with a notable Western allure located between Flathead Lake, Whitefish Mountain Resort and Glacier National Park. This bustling community sits among towering mountain ranges in a valley filled with crystal clear lakes and is known for its proximity to vast recreation areas. The town served as the shooting location for the 2004 film “Hidalgo.”
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Kalispell
Kalispell is a vibrant mountain town with a notable Western allure located between Flathead Lake, Whitefish Mountain Resort and Glacier National Park. This bustling community sits among towering mountain ranges in a valley filled with crystal clear lakes and is known for its proximity to vast recreation areas. The town served as the shooting location for the 2004 film “Hidalgo.”
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Incentives & Rebates
Navigating the world of film production, financial incentives and tax rebates plays a crucial role in bringing your vision to life while maximizing your budget. This section outlines the range of incentives, tax rebates and financial support available to filmmakers choosing this location.
Western Montana may be easy on the eyes, but that’s not the only reason to consider this place of wild wonder as your next shoot location. There are plenty of incentives for filming in Glacier Country.
MEDIA Tax Credit
The state’s MEDIA tax credit offers a 20% transferable income tax credit on production expenditures in the state with additional amounts that can increase the credit up to 35% of the production company’s base investment. The Big Sky Film Grant builds and supports partnerships with filmmakers and production companies intending to create Montana film jobs. Filming in Montana also comes with a host of bonus incentives that include no sales tax, licensing exemptions and free location breakdowns.
Bonus Incentives
From Western hospitality and ease of access to fishing between takes and moseying up to the taproom bar at one of the country’s best microbreweries, being on location in Glacier Country has its perks. Not to mention, golden hour is three hours long.
Big Sky Film Grant
The Big Sky Film Grant Program builds and supports partnerships with filmmakers and production companies with the intention to create Montana film industry jobs. The grant program enhances the marketing efforts of Montana’s tourism regions and advocates for the state’s people, history and overall quality of life.
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Films That Call Western Montana’s Glacier Country Home
Glacier Country boasts a rich history in filmmaking, providing the perfect backdrop for a diverse array of movies. Explore the titles that have transformed this space into a canvas for storytelling, and envision how your project could be the next to add to its legacy.
Film Credits
- The Shining
- Hidalgo
- Forrest Gump
- The Revenant
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Unlock the Perfect Backdrop for Your Production
Racene Friede
Why Contact this Location?
Diverse Locations: From bustling cityscapes to serene landscapes, find the perfect backdrop for any scene.
Permit Assistance: Simplified process to obtain necessary filming permits, ensuring a hassle-free production.
Local Production Support: Access to a network of local professionals, from crew members to equipment rental services.
Financial Incentives: Information on tax credits, grants, and other financial benefits to maximize your budget.
Location Scouting Services: Expert scouts familiar with hidden gems and iconic sites to match your script’s needs.
Accommodation Solutions: Exclusive deals and support in arranging accommodations for cast and crew.
Cultural Insight: Insights into local culture, traditions, and language to enrich your project’s authenticity.
Transport and Logistics: Assistance with transportation and logistics for equipment and personnel.
Network of Creatives: Tap into a vibrant community of filmmakers, artists, and creatives for collaboration.