Garrison, Colorado, is a name that might evoke curiosity, especially for those familiar with the television series The Ranch. However, it’s important to note that Garrison is a fictional town created for the show. While the series portrays Garrison as a small town in southwestern Colorado, there is no actual place by that name in the state. The setting for the series is designed to reflect the rural and rugged landscapes of Colorado, capturing the essence of small-town life in the Rocky Mountains.
Understanding the Fictional Setting of Garrison
The town of Garrison serves as the central location in The Ranch, a Netflix series that delves into the lives of the Bennett family, who run a ranch called Iron River Ranch. The series showcases the challenges and dynamics of ranch life, family relationships, and the complexities of modern rural America. Garrison is depicted as a close-knit community where everyone knows each other, and the local bar owned by the Bennett family is a central gathering spot for the townspeople.
While Garrison itself doesn’t exist, the show’s creators chose to set the town in southwestern Colorado, near the real town of Ouray. This region is known for its breathtaking mountain views, expansive ranchlands, and a slower pace of life that aligns with the show’s themes. The choice of this location adds authenticity to the portrayal of rural life, even though the town of Garrison is a product of fiction.
Real Locations Featured in the Series
Even though Garrison is fictional, the series was filmed in various real locations that contribute to the authentic feel of the show. Some of these locations include
- Ouray, ColoradoKnown as the Switzerland of America, Ouray is a picturesque town nestled in the San Juan Mountains. Its historic architecture and stunning natural surroundings make it a popular filming location for productions seeking a mountain town setting.
- Ridgway, ColoradoLocated near Ouray, Ridgway offers expansive ranchlands and scenic vistas that serve as the backdrop for many of the show’s outdoor scenes.
- Last Dollar RoadThis scenic route near Ridgway provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and is featured in the opening and closing credits of the series.
These real locations help bring the fictional town of Garrison to life, providing viewers with a visually compelling setting that enhances the storytelling of The Ranch.
Exploring the Themes of the Show
The Ranch explores themes such as family, tradition, and the evolving dynamics of rural America. The fictional town of Garrison serves as a microcosm for these broader themes, illustrating how small-town communities navigate change and the complexities of modern life. The characters’ interactions with the town and its residents reflect the interconnectedness of rural communities, where personal and communal lives are deeply intertwined.
The series also delves into the challenges faced by ranching families, including economic pressures, generational conflicts, and the impact of societal changes on traditional ways of life. Through the lens of Garrison, viewers gain insight into the resilience and adaptability of rural communities as they confront these challenges.
While Garrison, Colorado, is not a real town, its depiction in The Ranch serves as a testament to the rich storytelling that draws inspiration from the landscapes and cultures of southwestern Colorado. The choice to set the fictional town in this region adds depth and authenticity to the series, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the world of rural America. Whether real or fictional, the essence of Garrison captures the spirit of small-town life and the enduring bonds that define communities.