Giggster logo
The Lone Ranger  movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was The Lone Ranger filmed?

2013

City Locations

Moab (USA), Monument Valley (USA), Shiprock (USA), Alamosa (USA), Angel Fire (USA), Creede (USA), Hurley (USA), Abiquiu (USA), Albuquerque (USA), Lone Pine (USA), Puerco Valley (USA), Arcadia (USA), Kayenta (USA), Sunland (USA)

Location Types

Film Studio, Unique, Intimate, Unusual

Location Styles

Ranch Style, Dated, Neglected

About The Lone Ranger

The Lone Ranger, released in 2013, is an action-packed Western film helmed by the talented director Gore Verbinski and written by the brilliant team of Ted Elliott, Justin Haythe, and Terry Rossio. Tonto (Johnny Depp) narrates how he and the Lone Ranger (Armie Hammer) try to end local villainy in the Old West.

A talented cast, including William Fichtner, Ruth Wilson, Barry Pepper, James Badge Dale, Helena Bonham Carter, Tom Wilkinson, and Curtis Cregan, join The Lone Ranger. The movie follows John Reid (Armie Hammer), a lawyer-turned-Texas ranger who teams up with Tonto to battle Butch Cavendish (William Fichtner) and his gang of outlaws.

With Tonto's help, they set off on thrilling adventures that take them through treacherous terrain as they seek justice for those wronged by the outlaws. Along the way, they make friends with native tribes and encounter unexpected allies who help them in their quest for justice. The duo proves that even one man can make a difference when standing up for what is right.

Based on 250 reviews, The Lone Ranger has received a 31% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. According to the site's consensus, although Armie Hammer and Johnny Depp deliver an appealing performance as the lead roles, their efforts fail to make up for the lackluster script, excessively long runtime, and overwhelming action sequences of The Lone Ranger.

Based on evaluations from 45 critics, the film has received a score of 37 out of 100 on Metacritic. This score suggests that the film has garnered "generally unfavorable reviews." According to CinemaScore, the film received an average grade of "B+" from surveyed audiences, using an A+ to F scale.

The Lone Ranger Locations

The production of the 2013 Western, The Lone Ranger, took place mainly in Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. Monument Valley in Utah captured the film’s unmistakable landscape of towering red-sandstone buttes, creating a stunning backdrop for the movie. It is also worth noting that Creede, Colorado, and Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation in New Mexico also provided settings for many other scenes.

The region offers a wealth of dramatic landscapes, including mountains stretching across Utah and Arizona to the breathtaking Granite Gorge Monument and the ghost town of Chloride. The backdrop created an ideal setting for a Wild West adventure with everything from gold mines to Native American ruins and some of the most iconic Western movie locations like East Canyon Creek Train Station.

A trip to these locations would be worthwhile for the beautiful scenery and to immerse yourself in the history and culture that inspired such a powerful film. Imagine taking in all these breathtaking sights while experiencing life on the open range as you explore Monument Valley or soak up the sun at Lake Powell.

Fun Facts:

Johnny Depp spent over three hours each day getting into character, transforming into Tonto with full face paint and makeup. His dedication paid off with nominations for numerous awards, including Best Actor at the British Academy Film Awards in 2014.

Butch kidnapping Rebecca and her son scene in The Lone Ranger

Plaza Blanca Rd, Abiquiu, NM 87510, USA

Rebecca Reid (Ruth Wilson) and her son (Bryant Prince) are kidnapped by Butch Cavendish (William Fichtner) and taken to the Valley of Tears. Collins (Leon Rippy), a character in the movie, is forced to take the two and shoot them. This intense moment adds to the dramatic tension of the film.

Plaza Blanca Road is in the rugged terrain of Abiquiu, New Mexico. This stunning winding road takes you through awe-inspiring rock formations chiseled by centuries of natural elements. You will pass by towering sandstone cliffs in varying shades of white and beige, creating a striking contrast against the bright blue skies.

Be sure to stop and take in the panoramic views that await you at every turn. Steeped in history and revered for its natural beauty, Plaza Blanca Road is a hidden gem everyone should have on their bucket list.

To explore this beautiful area, take State Road 84 and turn east on County Road 155. Another route is to take US-285 towards Abiquiu and turn onto County Road 165.

The canyon scene in The Lone Ranger

Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Chinle, AZ, United States

John Reid (Armie Hammer) and a group of men are in hot pursuit of the notorious Butch Cavendish (William Fichtner) and his gang. As they race through the rugged terrain, they pass through a majestic canyon. Butch Cavendish and his posse are desperate to escape capture and push their horses to their limits. The gunfire echoes reverberate through the canyon as the two factions exchange shots.

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty and cultural heritage of Canyon de Chelly National Monument in northeastern Arizona. Immerse yourself in centuries of history as you explore the majestic canyon shaped by the relentless flow of water. Experience the spirituality of the Navajo people and be captivated by the towering sandstone cliffs, deep ravines, and picturesque rock formations that stretch over 26 miles. This remarkable landscape is a testament to the ancient forces that shaped it.

The most convenient way to reach Canyon de Chelly is by car. From major cities like Phoenix or Albuquerque, you can take the respective highways and follow the directions to Chinle, Arizona. Once in Chinle, follow the signs to Canyon de Chelly National Monument.

John and Tonto looking at the Wild West scene in The Lone Ranger

John Ford Point, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, United States

Standing at the edge of a cliff, overlooking this majestic landscape, is The Lone Ranger (Armie Hammer), dressed in his signature white hat and mask. His tall figure cuts a heroic silhouette against the panoramic view. Beside him stands Tonto (Johnny Depp), his faithful Native American companion, adorned in traditional attire.

John Ford Point is a breathtaking vantage point in the iconic Monument Valley, Utah. Named after the renowned film director John Ford, who filmed numerous Western movies in this picturesque location, it has become a popular destination for travelers and film enthusiasts.

Perched at the top of a high cliff, John Ford Point offers a sweeping panoramic view of the mesmerizing red sandstone formations that define Monument Valley. From this strategic viewpoint, visitors can marvel at the towering buttes, mesas, and spires that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Access to John Ford Point is part of the 17-mile scenic Valley Drive loop that winds through Monument Valley. The road is unpaved but accessible to most vehicles. Some portions of the road may be bumpy, so drive with caution.

John and Tonto riding through the Wild West scene in The Lone Ranger

Ship Rock, New Mexico, United States

After being recognized as a hero by the town, John (Armie Hammer) is offered a law-enforcement position, but he chooses to decline and instead rides off with Tonto (Johnny Depp). In 1933, Will (Mason Cook) questions the story, prompting Tonto to hand him a silver bullet and advise him to make his judgment. Tonto then departs in the form of a crow, leaving Will inspired. In response, Will puts on a mask, embracing a new identity.

Ship Rock, also known as Tsé Bit' A'í in Navajo, is a remarkable geological formation in San Juan County, New Mexico. Rising nearly 1,583 feet (482.5 meters) above the high-desert plain of the Navajo Nation, Ship Rock is a monadnock that stands out in the landscape. This magnificent landmark is the remnant of an approximately 30 million-year explosive volcanic eruption. It is the solidified feeder pipe of a long-vanished volcano, now exposed as a towering rock formation.

The easiest way to access Ship Rock is by car. From the north, follow US-491 and then turn onto Indian Service Route 13. Continuing for another 7.5 miles will bring you to the base of Ship Rock, where you can enjoy an up-close view of this magnificent landmark.

Tonto placing John on a spirit platform scene in The Lone Ranger

DeadHorsePoint, Dead Horse Point Trail, Moab, UT 84532, United States

After Butch Cavendish (William Fichtner) and his gang shoot John Reid (Armie Hammer), an intriguing moment unfolds. Tonto (Johnny Depp), a Comanche tribesman and steadfast companion of John Reid, takes action to save him. In a gesture rooted in spirituality and Native American mysticism, Tonto places John Reid on a spirit platform.

Dead Horse Point State Park, located in Utah, is a captivating destination offering a mesmerizing desert landscape and stunning views of the surrounding canyons. This park has become a popular attraction for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The name traces back to a tragic legend from the Old West.

As the story goes, cowboys would corral wild mustangs on the mesa, leaving them stranded without an escape route. In one unfortunate incident, a group of horses perished from dehydration, forever immortalizing this place as Dead Horse Point.

To reach Dead Horse Point State Park in Utah, start by heading north on US-191 from Moab for approximately 9 miles. Make a left turn onto Utah Highway 313, and you will arrive at the entrance of Dead Horse Point State Park.

Conclusion

The Lone Ranger is a Western film directed by Gore Verbinski and released in 2013. The narrative revolves around Tonto, a Native American warrior, as he narrates the untold chronicle of John Reid's evolution into a legendary emblem of justice.

The movie features breathtaking views of Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico, perfect backdrops for the classic Western film. From Monument Valley to the wild deserts of Arizona, audiences are sure to be captivated by the stunning visuals and dramatic landscapes that make up the setting.

With a compelling storyline and exceptional visuals, The Lone Ranger is a must-see for any fan of Western movies. This movie offers an exciting journey through iconic American locations, from wagon rides to horseback chases through rugged terrain.

For fans of Westerns, traveling across the USA to visit The Lone Ranger filming locations promises an unforgettable experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.