The Best TV Shows Set in Montana

Ranker TV
Updated February 23, 2026 12 items

Montana is one of the most beautiful states in the U.S., and it's no surprise that some of the best TV shows set in Montana are about rugged cowboys, strong women, and a sense of community. This list features all of the best TV series set in Montana, many of which are about life on a ranch or family drama. As you can see from this list, there are plenty of great shows filmed in Montana that have aired throughout television history.

What shows will you find on this list? Northern Exposure was filmed entirely in Roslyn, Washington where it was set - but it's still one of the most popular TV shows set in Montana. Big Little Lies is another show that takes place partially within The Treasure State - specifically within Monterey County where much of season two takes place (and yes, we're counting Monterey as being part of Montana). Other good series featured on this list include Longmire and Hell On Wheels - both gritty dramas about life on a ranch during different eras.

Which television series do you think are the best to feature Montana? Give your favorite show a thumbs up and please add any other great programs to this list!

 

Latest additions: Marshals
Help shape these rankings by voting on this list of The Best TV Shows Set in Montana
This list is dynamically ranked based on user voting. The order reflects the consensus of our voters and is not influenced by paid placements or editorial bias.

  • Yellowstone
    1
    Wes Bentley, Kelly Reilly, Luke Grimes
    31 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveLongmire, Hell on Wheels, The Ranch, Justified, Sons of Anarchy
    Why Should I Stream? Immerse in the world of Yellowstone, a modern-day Western drama that has quickly gained prominence in pop culture for its striking visuals and compelling themes. The show delves into the power struggles and moral complexities within a family-owned ranch, earning high praise from critics and viewers alike. For those seeking an intense, character-driven series with stunning cinematography, Yellowstone is definitely worth adding to the watchlist.

    • Premiered: June 20, 2018
    • Number of Episodes: 74
    • 1883
      11883
       
       
      33 Votes
    • Return to Lonesome Dove
      2Return to Lonesome Dove
       
       
      13 Votes
    • Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency
      3Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency
       
       
      39 Votes
    • Lonesome Dove
      4Lonesome Dove
       
       
      21 Votes
  • Lonesome Dove
    2
    Robert Duvall, Tommy Lee Jones, Diane Lane
    10 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveStreets of Laredo, Rough Riders, Dances With Wolves (TV Miniseries), Legends of the Fall (TV Miniseries), Unforgiven (TV Miniseries)
    Why Should I Stream? Experience the quintessential Western masterpiece Lonesome Dove, a timeless tale that has captivated audiences worldwide with its epic story of friendship, love, and adventure in the late 19th-century American West. With unforgettable performances by Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones alongside an outstanding ensemble cast, this award-winning miniseries is essential viewing for any true connoisseur of television. Saddle up for a thrilling journey across the vast plains as you become engrossed in this classic saga.

    • Premiered: February 5, 1989
    • Number of Episodes: 4
  • 1883
    3
    Sam Elliott, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill
    23 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveDeadwood, Hatfields & McCoys, Godless, True Grit (TV Mini-Series), Texas Rising
    Why Should I Stream? Venture back in time with 1883, the highly anticipated prequel to Yellowstone that explores the origins of the Dutton family's legacy while providing deeper insights into the Wild West era. From captivating performances by renowned actors like Sam Elliott and Tim McGraw to its breathtaking landscapes and immersive storytelling, this ambitious series promises to deliver on all fronts for fans of Western dramas. Don't miss out on witnessing the trials and tribulations faced by these early settlers as they carve out their place in history.

    • Premiered: December 19, 2021
    • Number of Episodes: 11
  • Frontier House
    4

    Frontier House

    Kristen Brooks, Nate Brooks, Rudy Brooks
    10 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveColonial House, The 1900 House, Victorian Farm, Manor House, Edwardian Country House
    Why Should I Stream? Frontier House offers an intriguing glimpse into 19th-century homesteading life through a fascinating social experiment chronicling the lives of three families as they try to survive in the Montana wilderness using only period-appropriate resources. This critically-acclaimed reality series presents an authentic portrayal of historical American life, giving viewers a renewed appreciation for modern conveniences while also sparking curiosity about simpler times. For history buffs or anyone who enjoys unscripted television with substance, Frontier House is a must-watch.

    • Premiered: 2002
    • Number of Episodes: 6
  • Big Sky
    5
    Katheryn Winnick, Kylie Bunbury, Brian Geraghty
    11 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveKilling Eve, Twin Peaks, Ozark, Broadchurch, The Killing
    Why Should I Stream? Immerse yourself in the suspenseful world of Big Sky, a crime thriller hailed for its jaw-dropping twists and stellar performances. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Montana, this gripping series delves into dark secrets lurking beneath small-town life. A must-watch for fans of complex character studies and intricate plotlines, Big Sky will keep viewers guessing until the very end.

    • Premiered: November 17, 2020
    • Number of Episodes: 49
    • Mare of Easttown
      1Mare of Easttown
       
       
      23 Votes
    • Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
      2Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
       
       
      18 Votes
    • How to Get Away with Murder
      3How to Get Away with Murder
       
       
      18 Votes
    • Sharp Objects
      4Sharp Objects
       
       
      18 Votes
  • Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency
    6
    Samuel Barnett, Elijah Wood, Aaron Douglas
    15 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveDoctor Who, Sherlock, Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (TV Series), The Librarians, Warehouse 13
    Why Should I Stream? Dive into the quirky universe of Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency, based on Douglas Adams' beloved novels that boast an eccentric blend of mystery, humor, and supernatural elements. With its highly imaginative storyline and endearing characters brought vividly to life by a talented ensemble cast—including Elijah Wood—this offbeat show has garnered a loyal following since its debut. Join millions in indulging your penchant for unconventional detective stories with a touch of British wit.

    • Premiered: October 22, 2016
    • Number of Episodes: 18