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Godless movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Godless filmed?

2017

City Locations

Santa Fe (USA), Lamy (USA), Abiquiu (USA), Galisteo (USA), Jemez Pueblo (USA)

Location Types

Ranch, Unusual

Location Styles

Dated, Building Dated, Ranch Style, Southwestern

About Godless

Godless is an American Western drama limited series that debuted on Netflix in 2017. A seven-episode series, it follows the residents of La Belle, a small New Mexico town run by women since a mining accident killed most of its male inhabitants. As the townspeople deal with their newfound independence and headstrong views, they must fight against an outlaw gang led by Frank Griffin (Jeff Daniels).

The series follows many of La Belle’s inhabitants as they seek justice, redemption, and their form of freedom from oppression. Among them are widow Alice Fletcher (Michelle Dockery), who works to protect her land and fend off hostile neighbors; Roy Goode (Jack O'Connell), an outlaw seeking refuge; and white-hat lawman Bill McNue (Scoot McNairy).

As their lives intersect in unexpected ways, they must decide what it means to survive in a world determined to be godless. Godless is a riveting, suspenseful story about survival set against the backdrop of the American Wild West that will keep viewers on their toes until the very last episode.

Godless Locations

Godless, the critically acclaimed production, was predominantly based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and utilized the sublime and rugged landscapes of the northern region. La Belle, the central town setting of the show, may seem like a real place, but it is a fictitious location inspired by historic mining towns in the Southwest.

The purpose-built set was constructed at the San Cristobal Ranch just south of Santa Fe and consisted of 28 distinct buildings - including a hotel, saloon, and jail. The set took over 12 weeks to build, making it an impressive feat of construction and design.

The opening scene of Godless, a tragic one, takes place in the authentic town of Creede, Colorado. However, a studio provided the setting, and the show's creators paid close attention to detail, meticulously recreating the small town's rocks and storefronts to resemble the actual location.

Although the vast majority of Godless unfolds in New Mexico, the final episode of the Western miniseries sees Roy Goode embark on a journey to California to reunite with his estranged brother. After reaching his final destination, the show's last scene features Jack O'Connell gazing out over the Pacific Ocean, which came to life on location in the rugged Big Sur region of California.

Fun Facts:

Godless was the first major U.S.-based period television series to feature an all-female town leadership. It includes Sheriff Anna Turner (Merrit Wever), who becomes one of the main protagonists as she attempts to bring justice to La Belle while protecting its citizens from Frank Griffin's ruthless gang.

Marshall arrives through a dust storm scene in Godless

Cerro Pelon Movie Ranch, Galisteo, NM 87540, United States

In the movie scene, Marshal John Cook (Sam Waterston) and a group of men ride through a dusty storm and hear a woman singing. The town has streets and buildings filled with dead bodies and burning structures. They stumble upon a trail and telegram station that had derailed.

There are multiple dead bodies scattered around both locations. While surveying the scene, Cook notices a woman dressed in white sitting next to one of the bodies. She was the only survivor and the source of the singing. When he looks up, one of the deputies falls to his knees upon seeing a small boy's mutilated hanging corpse.

Cerro Pelon Movie Ranch, located in Galisteo, New Mexico, is the perfect destination for movie and television fans. The ranch features some of the most beautiful scenery in the state and has provided a backdrop for films such as No Country for Old Men, Lonesome Dove, and 3:10 to Yuma.

Visitors to the ranch can explore its many locations, which range from lakeside forests to mesas, arroyos, and even villages. For those looking for a more immersive experience, guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how films come to life. Cerro Pelon Movie Ranch provides visitors with an unforgettable experience.

To get to Cerro Pelon Movie Ranch in Galisteo, New Mexico, visitors should travel along I-25 until they reach Exit 276. Continue on Route 41 for approximately 5 miles and eventually arrive at the ranch. Alternatively, take exit 219 from I-25 and follow Route 14 toward Santa Fe for about 25 miles before turning left onto Galisteo Road.

Narrienta healing McNue scene in Godless

Chama River, Abiquiu, New Mexico, USA

Narrienta (Michael Horse) applies mud over the eyes of Sheriff McNue (Scoot McNairy), hoping to restore his failing eyesight. However, McNue washes the dirt off in a nearby river, much to the Chief's disappointment. Bill dismisses the Chief's beliefs, referring to them as "witchy nonsense." The Chief then warns McNue that he has lost his shadow and that a man without a shadow is dangerous, as he has no more attachments or burdens to hold him back.

The Chama River is a water body in Abiquiu, New Mexico. The river starts at the confluence of the Rio Chama and Rio Grande Rivers and flows for approximately 150 miles before draining into the Elephant Butte Reservoir.

The river passes through gorgeous red sandstone cliffs, steep canyons, picturesque forests, and agricultural lands. Visitors can participate in various activities, including paddle boarding and kayaking on the calm sections of the river or whitewater rafting. Fishing is also popular in this area, with opportunities to catch trout, catfish, bass, and walleye.

To reach the Chama River in Abiquiu, New Mexico, take US-84/285 south out of Espanola and follow it to Abiquiu. Turn right onto NM State Road 84 and follow it until you reach the river.

Alice shooting Roy scene in Godless

San Cristobal Ranch, 90 San Cristobal Ranch Road, Lamy, NM 87540, United States

Marshal John Cook (Sam Waterston) finds a train wreck in Creede, Colorado, in 1884. He discovers that all the people on board have died. Marshal Cook suspects that the cause is Frank Griffin (Jeff Daniels), an infamous outlaw who seeks revenge against Roy Goode (Jack O'Connell), who has betrayed him like a son.

Roy arrives at Alice Fletcher's (Michelle Dockery) ranch outside La Belle, New Mexico. Alice wounds Roy but later takes care of him with the assistance of her Paiute mother-in-law, Iyovi (Tantoo Cardinal), and her mixed-race son, Truckee (Samuel Marty).

San Cristobal Ranch, located in Lamy, New Mexico, is an oasis of beauty and relaxation. Wildflowers and majestic mountain views dot the stunning landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that feature spectacular views of the Santa Fe River Valley and participate in various activities such as horseback riding, fly fishing, or soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

The ranch is approximately 25 miles south of Santa Fe and 40 miles north of Las Cruces. It is also accessible via Route 285 from the west and Route 84/285 from the east.

Griffin catching Roy scene in Godless

Diablo Canyon, Old Buckman Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87506, United States

Frank Griffin and his gang relentlessly pursue Roy Goode on horseback through the plains. He crosses a river and clings onto a rope, desperately trying to escape, using it to get to the other side. With Frank and his men hot on his trail, Roy lands on the opposite bank and begins to make his way up the steep embankment.

However, his pursuers reach the water and pull the rope, causing Roy to lose his grip and plummet into the river below. Despite the fall, Roy manages to make it to the shore and continues his escape on foot. The sequence is intense, with high-stakes action and a thrilling setting that perfectly captures the harsh, unforgiving landscape of the Wild West.

Diablo Canyon, located just a few miles from Santa Fe, is a geological marvel that offers stunning views of colorful rock formations and rugged terrain. Formed from volcanic ash, Diablo Canyon is an otherworldly landscape that transports visitors to a time long gone.

In addition to its natural beauty, Diablo Canyon also holds cultural significance for the Santa Clara Pueblo tribe, who consider the area sacred. Visitors should respect the land and history and not disturb archaeological sites or artifacts.

To get to Diablo Canyon in Santa Fe, drive or hike, depending on your preference. The canyon is approximately 15 miles northwest of Santa Fe.

Sheriff looking for Frank scene in Godless

Bonanza Creek Ranch, Bonanza Creek Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87508, United States

As Marshal John Cook's (Sam Waterston) lifeless body lies before him, Sheriff Bill McNue (Scoot McNairy) surveys the scene. The Mayor of Olegrande (Forrest Fyre) inquires about McNue's plan for apprehending Frank Griffin (Jeff Daniels) and his cohorts. McNue responds with a simple yet resolute approach, stating his desire to capture Frank and bring him to justice before he can cause more harm.

Situated on over two thousand acres in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the Bonanza Creek Ranch is a perfect getaway for those seeking to explore the stunning beauty of nature. The ranch offers visitors horseback riding and fishing opportunities in spectacular natural settings. Visitors can access miles of scenic trails, perfect for hiking or mountain biking, among towering ponderosa pines, rugged hillsides, and ancient petroglyphs.

To reach the Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe, New Mexico, take I-25 north from Albuquerque and take exit 279. Turn east onto NM-14/NM-502 and follow the signs for Santa Fe.

Frank's gang taking refuge scene in Godless

Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico, USA

Frank Griffin (Jeff Daniels) and his gang seek refuge in the isolated mining town of La Belle, taking advantage of its rugged mountain terrain and tall evergreens for cover from the authorities. However, tensions within the gang soon rise, causing Frank to face the harsh reality that their journey will be much more challenging than anticipated. Faced with limited options, Frank must rely on his gang to maintain their unity and evade capture by the law.

Jemez Pueblo is a beautiful and vibrant Native American Tribal community in New Mexico with a long and rich history. The Jemez Pueblo people have lived in the area since ancient times. They are descendants of an ancient Anasazi tribe of Native Americans who occupied northern New Mexico more than two thousand years ago.

The Jemez Pueblo is known for its religious ceremonies, traditional arts, handmade crafts, and agricultural practices. It is also home to one of the most visible landmarks in New Mexico - the Old Church of San Jose de los Jemez, built by early Spanish missionaries near what is now known as the modern-day Jemez Pueblo State Monument.

Getting to Jemez Pueblo requires some planning. The closest airport is Albuquerque International Airport, a two-hour drive from Pueblo. You can also take a bus from Santa Fe or Albuquerque to Jemez Pueblo.

Conclusion

Godless is a captivating television series that follows the story of La Belle, a small western town run by women. Though the townspeople struggle to survive in the aftermath of a deadly mining accident, their lives are further complicated when a gang of outlaws comes to town.

As viewers watch the characters navigate their hardships, they also get to explore a variety of visually stunning landscapes - from rolling hills and red-rock formations in Santa Fe and Socorro, New Mexico, to deserted ghost towns in Grants and Albuquerque, to lush green forests near Durango; and remote prairies and mountain passes in Colorado.

Godless captures the beauty and danger of this wild frontier with its sweeping vistas and thrilling shoot-outs. Despite its struggles with tragedy, La Belle remains an unforgettable place - filled with resilient people determined to make it through whatever life throws at them.