Colorado's stunning landscapes have long attracted filmmakers, making it a popular destination for movie shoots. With everything from majestic mountains to picturesque deserts, it's no wonder that directors keep returning to this state. The movies capture the beauty of locations like Estes Park, Telluride, and the San Juan Mountains. From action-packed car chases to thrilling westerns, these scenes bring Colorado’s unique charm to the big screen. In this article, we’ll explore 14 unforgettable movies filmed in Colorado that you can visit on your next road trip.
12 Movies Filmed in Colorado
The Hateful Eight (2015)
Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight was filmed in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, primarily around the town of Telluride. The remote, snow-covered landscapes played a major role in setting the tense and claustrophobic atmosphere of the movie. A group of bounty hunters, including characters played by Samuel L. Jackson and Kurt Russell, become trapped in a cabin during a blizzard. The stunning mountain views and the isolation of the environment perfectly amplify the film’s growing sense of danger and dread, making Colorado’s wilderness an integral part of the narrative.
The Shining (1980)
While Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining was not filmed at Estes Park’s Stanley Hotel, the hotel served as the inspiration for Stephen King’s Overlook Hotel. The chilling atmosphere of the hotel and its surroundings influenced the eerie, isolated tone of the movie. The opening scenes of the hotel’s long, desolate driveway set the tone for the psychological horror that unfolds inside. Though filmed in the UK, the Stanley Hotel in Colorado remains a popular destination for fans of the movie, and the hotel’s real-life haunted reputation only adds to its spooky appeal.
Furious 7 (2015)
In Furious 7, Colorado’s high-altitude landscapes provide the backdrop for some of the film’s most thrilling action sequences. The famous "airdrop scene," where cars parachute from a plane into the mountains, was filmed in part along the dangerous roads of Pikes Peak and Monarch Pass. These locations, with their steep cliffs and winding roads, gave the movie an extra layer of intensity, showcasing Colorado's rugged terrain in all its dramatic glory. The breathtaking vistas heighten the excitement of the chase and serve as a reminder of the state’s wild, untamed beauty.
Dumb & Dumber (1994)
This classic comedy featuring Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels is packed with memorable scenes filmed across Colorado. Some of the film’s most iconic moments were shot at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, which provides a stunning, historic setting. Other locations, like the slopes of Breckenridge and the picturesque Rocky Mountains, served as backdrops for the zany road trip that the characters take. From the infamous scene where the duo drives their van off a snowy mountain road to the absurd snowman scene, Colorado’s landscapes add a quirky charm to the film's lighthearted and outrageous humor.
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Filmed in Colorado’s Durango, Silverton, and Telluride, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid features some of the most famous Western landscapes captured on film. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which still operates today, was used for a thrilling train robbery scene in the movie. The rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and dramatic deserts of Colorado’s Western Slope provide a stunning backdrop for the film’s legendary outlaw duo. Colorado’s authentic Wild West feel helps ground the story in realism, making it a staple in the Western film genre.
True Grit (1969)
The classic Western True Grit, starring John Wayne, was filmed primarily in Colorado’s Ouray, Montrose, and Ridgewood. The movie's stark, open landscapes and the breathtaking scenery of the San Juan Mountains provide a perfect setting for the story of a young girl seeking justice for her father’s murder. The famous "sleeping rock" scene was filmed in the stunning Owl Creek Pass, and the Ouray County Courthouse, featured prominently in the movie, is still standing today. These Colorado locations are integral to the film’s sense of rugged individualism and frontier justice, capturing the spirit of the Old West.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
Though much of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade was filmed in Europe, some memorable scenes were shot in Colorado’s rugged terrain. The Cumbres & Toltec Railroad, which runs from Antonito to Chama, served as the backdrop for a thrilling train chase scene. The railroad’s vintage steam locomotives and picturesque mountain scenery gave the action sequences a sense of old-world charm. Additionally, the location for "Indy’s childhood home," featured early in the film, can be found in Colorado and is available for rent, giving fans a chance to visit a key location from one of the most beloved adventure films in cinema history.
Christmas Vacation (1989)
The Griswold family's holiday antics in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation were filmed in part in Colorado’s Arapaho National Forest near Breckenridge. This iconic Christmas movie captures the hilarious journey of Clark Griswold as he attempts to create the perfect holiday for his family. The snow-covered forests and the towering mountain peaks set the stage for the film’s most memorable moments, including the infamous tree-cutting scene. The forest, with its peaceful winter beauty, serves as the ideal setting for the Griswold family’s chaotic holiday adventure.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
In Mr. & Mrs. Smith, starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, Colorado’s Glenwood Springs plays a starring role in some of the film's most exciting sequences. The town's dramatic red rock cliffs provide the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating rock climbing chase scene. The surrounding rugged terrain and natural beauty of the area also serve to heighten the stakes, providing a stunning contrast to the tension-filled plot. Glenwood Springs has become a popular destination for fans of the film, as it offers both adventure and scenic relaxation in one location.
The Prestige (2006)
The Prestige tells the story of two rival magicians in the late 1800s, with key scenes filmed at Redstone Castle in Colorado. The historic mansion, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, perfectly complements the film's themes of mystery and magic. The secluded, gothic atmosphere of the castle enhances the story’s dark undertones, and its stunning architecture makes it a memorable location for fans. Today, Redstone Castle is a popular spot for visitors looking to step into the world of this mysterious film and its iconic characters.
Badlands (1973)
In Badlands, director Terrence Malick used Colorado’s southeastern towns like Rocky Ford, La Junta, and Las Animas to create a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for the film's tragic love story. The barren, open landscapes provide a stark contrast to the passionate and reckless actions of the young couple on the run. Iconic locations like the Bloom Mansion in Trinidad and the Rosemont Museum in Pueblo appear throughout the film, enriching the narrative with their historical significance. These places, steeped in both beauty and history, lend a quiet, yet potent, sense of melancholy to the film's atmosphere.
Catch and Release (1996)
Filmed in Boulder, Colorado, Catch and Release follows Jennifer Garner’s character as she navigates grief and new beginnings after her fiancé’s sudden death. The film highlights several iconic Boulder locations, including the vibrant Pearl Street Mall, known for its historic charm and artsy vibe. The natural beauty of Boulder’s nearby Flatirons and the scenic Boulder Creek also play a significant role in creating the film’s reflective, healing tone. These locations serve not only as the backdrop for the characters' emotional journeys but also as a reminder of the peace and beauty that nature can provide in times of sorrow.
Iconic Action and Thrills in Movies Filmed in Colorado
Movies filmed in Colorado are known for their action-packed sequences, set against the state’s stunning landscapes. Films like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Furious 7 take advantage of Colorado’s dramatic terrain to enhance thrilling moments. From steep cliffs to rugged mountains, these locations add excitement and realism to high-energy scenes.
The state’s diverse environments, including snow-covered mountains and rocky roads, make it ideal for action films. Whether it’s the intense chase scenes in The Hateful Eight or the iconic moments in Dumb & Dumber, movies filmed in Colorado bring these locations to life, making the scenes even more unforgettable.
Iconic Western Landscapes in Movies Filmed in Colorado
Colorado’s open landscapes are a perfect fit for Westerns, as seen in films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and True Grit. The state’s rugged mountains and vast plains create an authentic Wild West backdrop, bringing these classic stories to life. The natural beauty of Colorado helps transport viewers to a different era, adding depth to the films.
Filmmakers continue to use Colorado’s terrain to capture the essence of the Old West. Whether it’s the Durango & Silverton Railroad in Butch Cassidy or the sweeping vistas in True Grit, movies filmed in Colorado bring the adventure and danger of the Western genre to the screen with unforgettable locations.
Hollywood’s Love Affair with Colorado’s Scenic Beauty
Colorado’s diverse landscapes have made it a favorite among filmmakers, who use the state’s beauty to enhance their stories. From mountains to forests, Colorado provides stunning backdrops for movies like Catch and Release and The Lone Ranger. These locations help set the tone and make the stories more immersive for viewers.
The state’s natural beauty is also ideal for intimate moments in films. Movies filmed in Colorado like Christmas Vacation and Catch and Release show how the state’s picturesque settings add warmth and charm, creating unforgettable scenes in both comedies and dramas.
The Eerie Atmosphere of Horror Movies Filmed in Colorado
The eerie landscapes of Colorado are perfect for horror films, with movies like The Shining using the Stanley Hotel’s isolation to create a sense of dread. The hotel’s surroundings and eerie architecture add to the psychological terror of the story, making it one of the most memorable horror movie locations.
Other movies filmed in Colorado, like The Prestige and The Hateful Eight, use remote locations to build suspense and fear. Colorado’s desolate areas provide the perfect setting for horror, giving these films an added layer of tension and unease.
Conclusion: Exploring the Best Movies Filmed in Colorado
In conclusion, movies filmed in Colorado showcase the state’s stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and unique atmosphere, which have made it a favorite among filmmakers. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the desolate, eerie corners of the state, Colorado's variety of settings provides the perfect backdrop for a wide range of movie genres, from action-packed blockbusters to haunting horrors.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a movie buff, or someone looking to explore new locations, Colorado offers countless opportunities to visit famous film spots. Movies filmed in Colorado not only highlight the state's beauty but also give fans the chance to step into the scenes of some iconic films, making it a must-visit destination for any movie lover.
