Exploring John Wayne’s ‘True Grit’ Colorado Filming Locations Then and Now
True Grit is one of John Wayne‘s most iconic movies he ever starred in. As a result, many of his fans continue to dive into the fun behind-the-scenes information that the film has to offer. The True Grit filming locations are particularly special for many longtime fans. Here’s a look at the real-life locations and how they changed over the years.
The ‘True Grit’ movie follows John Wayne as U.S. Marshal ‘Rooster’ Cogburn
True Grit takes place after a hired hand named Tom Chaney (Jeff Corey) kills 14-year-old Mattie Ross’ (Kim Darby) father. As a result, she seeks revenge on him and hires U.S. Marshal “Rooster” Cogburn (Wayne) for the job. Mattie will need his help to track Tom down and get the job done.
The unlikely pair pursues him but comes across a Texas Ranger named La Boeuf (Glen Campbell) along the way. He joins them, but he has a different idea of justice, which he plans to deliver. The True Grit filming locations breathe life into the movie, offering stunning views and incredible set pieces. However, they changed a bit over the years.
‘True Grit’ Colorado filming locations then and now
A YouTube channel named JeepsterGal sought out the True Grit filming locations. They compared how these locations looked in the film compared to 2007. The True Shot filming locations are in and around Ridgway, Colorado in the San Juan Mountains.
The video begins on the ranch shown in the True Grit opening credits. The Ross Ranch still exists on Last Dollar Road in all of its scenic glory. The images show a green landscape with ranch construction perfect for the Western classic.
Meanwhile, the Fort Smith Saloon is now a store on Lena Street. However, it maintains its Western charm.
The True Grit filming location that depicts the hanging scene is in Ridgway’s Hartwell Park. It’s instantly recognizable thanks to a large tree. The video depicts the scene buzzing with local community life. Meanwhile, the paddy wagon is still on display in the area.
Next, True Grit fans might recognize the Chambers Groceries sign in the background. It’s now an interior wall at the True Grit Cafe.
The video moves to the Ouray County Courthouse, where you can see the stairway and the exit displayed in the film. The funeral parlor behind Wayne and Darby in the town is also visible on Clinton Street. However, the building is now a Natural Foods store. Chen Lee’s is on the same street, although the building with his name on it is gone.
The ferry scenes were filmed at the Blue Mesa Reservoir, which is instantly recognizable by the cliffside. However, the actual location is now underwater. The video lists other True Grit filming locations, such as Sneffels Range of the San Juan Mountains and the Dallas Divide.
Another significant True Grit filming location is the camping spot on Cow Creek at Deb’s Meadow. However, another noticeable tree points out another filming location at the Horsefly Mesa, which is still standing.
Speaking of Horsefly Mesa, McAlester’s Store was in this location. However, one hitching post still remains.
Remember the rock that Wayne drinks while laying against? That’s at the summit of Owl Creek Pass, which is one of the most significant True Grit filming locations. However, the camp and snakepit are on Camp Bird Road outside of Ouray, which is on private property and can’t be accessed by the public.
You can’t miss Chimney Peak with its instantly recognizable appearance on top of the mountains. The final shootout is in Deb’s Meadow below Chimney Peak, which offers the sprawling beauty of nature.
John Wayne earned his only Oscar for his performance in the movie
Wayne only earned a single Oscar win over the course of his extensive career. However, it would be for one of the most iconic movies of his career. Wayne won the Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role for True Grit. However, that isn’t to say that he didn’t think that he should have been nominated for more of his work.
The True Grit filming locations are particularly beautiful. They offer scenic looks at nature that continue to exist today. It’s clear that the area embraces the film, as well. After all, it finally landed Wayne the industry’s top award.
