By ETT 
Unveiling the Breathtaking Filming Locations of ‘Ransom Canyon’
Ransom Canyon, the latest Netflix sensation, has captivated audiences with its engaging storyline and stunning visuals. One of the most frequently asked questions by fans is about the real-life locations where this gripping western drama was filmed. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the picturesque settings that brought this fictional Texas town to life.
The series, set in a fictional west-Texas town, was primarily filmed in New Mexico. The state’s diverse landscapes, from vast open spaces to historic architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for the story. Whether it’s the charming adobe structures or the breathtaking natural vistas, New Mexico’s unique beauty played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of Ransom Canyon.
Discovering the Real-Life Ransom Canyon
Many fans might be surprised to learn that Ransom Canyon is not a real place. However, the filming locations are very much real and scattered across New Mexico. The production team chose various sites in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and even a town called Las Vegas—though not the one in Nevada.
Lying close to the Texas border, Las Vegas, New Mexico, with its turn-of-the-century architecture, perfectly mimics an old Texas town. Show creator April Blair highlighted the area’s charm, saying, “Most of New Mexico is adobe architecture, and there’s this one little old mining town in northern New Mexico very close to the Texas border called Las Vegas, ironically, that just looks like an old Texas town.”
Exploring the Iconic Ranches of Ransom Canyon
Ransom Canyon features several iconic ranches that are central to the plot. One of the most notable is the Double K Ranch, owned by Staten Kirkland, played by Josh Duhamel. This ranch was filmed at Dead Horse Ranch, located between Las Vegas, New Mexico, and Santa Fe. The natural beauty of the area and its vast landscapes made it an ideal choice for the production team.
Another significant location is the Bar W Ranch, which serves as the home of Davis Collins. This setting was brought to life at the Blame Her Ranch outside Santa Fe. The Buena Vista Ranch, meanwhile, was transformed into Cap’s Fuller Ranch, adding another layer of authenticity to the series.
Quinn’s charming home was filmed at Bonanza Creek Ranch, a location that has a rich history in Hollywood. Over 150 films, series, and commercials have utilized this expansive ranch, including Django Unchained and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The ranch boasts a large Western Town set, multiple homesteads, and even a Spanish Fort, making it a versatile filming location.
Why New Mexico Stood in for Texas
While Ransom Canyon is set in Texas, the decision to film in New Mexico was strategic. The state’s unique landscapes and architecture provided a perfect stand-in for the Lone Star State. The adobe buildings and open plains of New Mexico closely resemble those found in Texas, creating an authentic visual experience for viewers.
April Blair shared, “Honestly, you can actually see Texas from some of the ranches. Mood and topography-wise, it’s very, very similar.” The production team also embraced New Mexico’s natural resources, with the basecamp and catering powered almost entirely by solar power—a first for a Netflix production.
The spiritual essence of New Mexico added another dimension to the filming experience. Josh Duhamel, who plays Staten Kirkland, expressed his admiration for the state, saying, “New Mexico is a spiritual place. You can see why so many artists migrate there and why it is known as the Land of Enchantment. The sunsets, the hillsides, the vistas—everything is simply unbelievable.”
Conclusion: The Magic of Ransom Canyon’s Filming Locations
Ransom Canyon has not only captivated audiences with its compelling narrative but also with its breathtaking visuals. The series showcases the natural beauty of New Mexico, transforming it into a striking stand-in for Texas.
From the historic architecture of Las Vegas to the expansive ranches near Santa Fe, each filming location contributes to the overall charm of the show. The combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, and sustainable production practices makes Ransom Canyon a testament to the magic of filmmaking.
Fans of the series can take comfort in knowing that the real-life locations are as enchanting as they appear on screen. So, the next time you watch Ransom Canyon, remember the incredible journey that brought this fictional town to life in the heart of New Mexico.