Nestled in the heart of Southern Utah, Duck Creek Village is more than just an idyllic destination for family getaways. It's also been a favorite backdrop for some of Hollywood’s most beloved classics. Let’s take a trip back in time to explore the cinematic legacy of the area fondly referred to as 'Movie Ranch'.
Our journey starts in the late 1930s with the classic "Drums Along the Mohawk" (1939). Directed by the legendary John Ford, this film presented Duck Creek’s serene beauty to a global audience for the first time. With its rustic vistas perfectly portraying the Mohawk Valley during the American Revolutionary War, Duck Creek Village became a natural choice for filmmakers seeking authenticity.
Just a few years later "My Friend Flicka" (1943) was brought to life in the sprawling meadows of Duck Creek. The story, centering around a young boy and his horse, became an instant hit, prompting two sequels – "Thunderhead, Son of Flicka" (1945) and "The Green Grass of Wyoming" (1948). Both these films continued to capture the untouched beauty of Duck Creek, presenting our village as an emblem of America’s rural heartland.
Following this, the area took a starring role in "National Velvet" (1944). The heartwarming tale of a young Elizabeth Taylor riding her horse to victory in the Grand National steeplechase was partly filmed here. It was later chosen for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry.
Next, we visit the 1950s with the film "Smoky" (1950). This western drama about a man and his horse, Smoky, was shot amidst our picturesque pine forests and grassy meadows, showcasing the timeless charm of Duck Creek Village.
And it's not just the silver screen that has been enchanted by our beautiful village. Several TV shows have also found inspiration in the cinematic landscapes of Duck Creek, with the most notable being "How the West Was Won" and "Daniel Boone."
Airing from 1977 to 1979, “How the West Was Won” used Duck Creek Village to portray the rugged wilderness of the American frontier. The series’ stirring portrayal of pioneer life found the perfect backdrop in our rolling hills and serene forests, further establishing Duck Creek Village as a preferred location for filmmakers.
On a similar note, the iconic TV show "Daniel Boone," which ran from 1964 to 1970, also chose the untouched beauty of Duck Creek Village to bring its stories to life. Set in the late 18th century, this show followed the exploits of the legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone in the wilderness of Kentucky. The varied landscapes of Duck Creek Village effortlessly doubled as the unexplored frontier, capturing the spirit of adventure and exploration.
But Duck Creek Village is not just a location stuck in Hollywood's golden era. It continues to enchant filmmakers with its picturesque settings and has served as a locale for many modern films and TV shows. Today, the 'Movie Ranch' is a living testament to cinematic history, its natural beauty frozen in time on the silver screen.
Experience the movie magic for yourself by booking a trip to Duck Creek Village through Family Time Vacation Rentals. Our local properties capture the same charm as these timeless classics, with modern amenities that keep you in movie-star comfort. A 3-bedroom cabin among the secluded whispering pines will immerse you in these and other silver screen settings while keeping you close to the heart of the city. Lights, camera, vacation!