Few films capture the rugged beauty of the American West quite like “True Grit.” The 1969 classic, starring John Wayne as the one-eyed U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn, was filmed primarily in Colorado, utilizing stunning locations that perfectly embodied the harsh yet captivating landscape of the late 1800s. Today, these filming sites continue to attract film buffs and history lovers alike, offering a glimpse into the world that brought this timeless tale to life.
Let’s saddle up and journey through some of the most iconic “True Grit” filming locations in Colorado, then and now:
Ouray County – The Wild Frontier
The rugged mountains and desolate plateaus of Ouray County stood in for Indian Territory in the film. Director Henry Hathaway chose this area for its authentic frontier feel and breathtaking scenery.
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Million Dollar Highway: Driving the winding Million Dollar Highway, which connects Ouray to Silverton, will transport you directly into the heart of “True Grit.” Keep an eye out for familiar vistas featured in scenes where Rooster Cogburn, Mattie Ross (Kim Darby), and Texas Ranger LaBoeuf (Glen Campbell) navigate treacherous mountain passes.
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Placerville: This historic mining town served as a primary filming location for several key sequences, including the saloon brawl and the climactic showdown between Cogburn and the outlaw Tom Chaney.
Mesa Verde National Park – Ancient Ruins and Dramatic Landscapes
One of the most striking locations in “True Grit” is Mesa Verde National Park. While not specifically mentioned by name in the film, its ancient cliff dwellings provide a dramatic backdrop for several scenes, including the initial meeting between Mattie and Rooster Cogburn.
Mesa Verde remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to awe visitors with its preserved Ancestral Puebloan history. Today, you can explore these same archaeological wonders and imagine yourself back in 1870s territory.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – A Timeless Journey
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a working tourist railway that traverses the breathtaking San Juan Mountains, played a significant role in “True Grit.” This historic railway served as the mode of transportation for Mattie and Rooster Cogburn’s journey to track down Chaney.
Riding this narrow-gauge train today offers passengers an unforgettable scenic adventure through stunning canyons, thick forests, and alongside the Animas River.
Exploring Further:
The beauty and history captured in “True Grit” continue to inspire visitors to Colorado. As you explore these filming locations, consider digging deeper into the rich heritage of the Wild West. Visit local museums, talk to historians, and perhaps even imagine yourself in Mattie’s boots, facing danger head-on alongside the legendary Rooster Cogburn.
What other classic Western films have filming locations worth visiting? And how do these sites help us connect with history and cinematic storytelling?
