Get to Know the Alabama Hills: Famous Film Location
Have you visited a place because your favorite movie or TV show was filmed there?
The answer may be yes or it may be no. Either way, the truth is that tourism directly related to film locations has boomed in recent years.
Tours, walks and other activities cater to people who would love to follow the steps of their favorite characters from “Game of the Thrones” or “Star Wars.” Others want to have their picture taken at the “Friends” café in New York City or the house of the TV series “Full House.”
In one way or another, a lot of us cherish those places because they bring us good memories or emotions.
I think that is the reason why here in California we are so proud of having one of the premier film locations in the Hollywood industry.I am referring to the Alabama Hills. Ok, that may not sound familiar (or exciting, to be honest). But, here is the thing, if you are a movie lover, you gotta visit this place. Hundreds of movies, commercials, shows, music videos, and other productions have been filmed in the area. I am telling you, this place is famous!
Table of Contents
About the Alabama Hills
The Alabama Hills are a range of hills and rock formations near the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada (in geological terms, they are considered part of the Sierra).
The name of the area comes from the CSS Alabama, a Confederate ship used during the Civil War. Pro Confederation Californians named mines in the area after the ship. With time, the entire range acquired the name.
Why is this place so important for producers scouting for locations? First, it is located three to four hours from Hollywood. It is an excellent place to film really close to the studios.
Second, the area is beautiful. A lot of people in the industry like to have the amazing Sierra peaks as a background. Plus, the “Hills” are full of spectacular formations and natural arches.
And by the way, Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the continental United States, can be seen from all over the area. If you have never seen Mount Whitney, take a look at the next photo. It is the peak right in the middle.
Third, the place can double as a far away locale. In some movies, it has been used to represent the Himalayas or the Arabian Desert.
Movies Filmed at Alabama Hills
Hundreds of cowboy movies used the Alabama Hills as its location. So, this is the Old West seen in the 1920- 1960’s movies. Below is a sample of the big names that have filmed in the area.
Hopalong Cassidy
Roy Rogers
John Wayne
Clint Eastwood
Joe Kidd
Gene Autry
Classics such as the Lone Ranger
Once the cowboy fever passed, other movies started to be filmed in the area. Now, I can relate better with these (I am not a fan of cowboy movies at all). Here is an example of some blockbusters filmed there:
Tremors
Gladiator
Star Trek Generations
Disney’s Dinosaur
J.I. Joe
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Iron Man
Django Unchained
Godzilla (2014)
Additionally, commercials for almost all models of cars have been filmed in the area (you are going to see the car riding in front of a mountainous backdrop, the other day I saw one of these commercials for an SUV). Tons of artists (even international artists) film music videos in the area.
And, if you are not a movie fan, hey, I get it. Remember I said this is a gorgeous area? Then, that would be reason enough to visit. You will feel so small (and I mean really small) while standing in front of that gigantic mountain range.
Visiting the Alabama Hills
I recommend starting to explore the area by getting a map with directions to the most famous film locations. You can find a copy inhere.
Additional information can be found at the Lone Pine Film History Museum or at the Eastern Sierra InterAgency Visitor Center (located one mile south of Lone Pine). With the proper information, you can do a self-tour.
The area is full of interesting rock formations and arches (oh, I love arches!). I was able to find the notorious Mobius Arch. This formation is the perfect frame for Mount Whitney.
The Latte Arch is located a short distance from the Mobius Arch.
I was able to find the Heart Arch too.
Other arches to find include:
Eye of Alabama Hills
Boot Arch
Cyclops Arch
The book Arches of the Alabama Hills, by Orlyn Fordham, has information about how to find 72 arches in the area.
Instead of going back through the same way we got in, we decided to continue on Movie Road. The road is unpaved and rough.
At some moments, I questioned my sanity (driving a Camry around there wasn’t a good idea after all). Even with the drawbacks, the scenery was spectacular. You are driving parallel to the Sierra and you can see the peaks rising from a flat valley. Those views are going to be hard to beat!
So, here you have it. I think I have given you enough evidence to help you decide to visit the Alabama Hills. To recap, if you are a movie fan, go. If you are a geology and nature lover, go. If you do not fit any of the two previous categories, go anyway.
Lone Pine Film Museum
If you want to learn more about this area, you can always pay a visit to the Beverly and Jim Rogers Museum of Film History located in the town of Lone Pine. The museum celebrates and preserves the diverse movie history of Lone Pine, Death Valley, and the Eastern Sierra.
Exhibits at the museum reflect the museum’s extensive collections and include early silent films, post-war films, “eastern,” science fiction and the many cowboy heroes who worked locally. Temporal exhibits highlight famous times, characters and actors.
The museum also includes a movie theatre (a 15 minutes movie summarizing the history of the area is presented every half an hour) and a shop with plenty of movie-related gear.
The museum is located at 701 South Main Street in the town of Lone Pine. Donation is $5.
Alabama Hills Camping
The Alabama Hills Recreational Area is administered by The Bureau of Land Management. Since this is public land, visitors are allowed to park their car or RV and spend the night in the area.
Now, this is as primitive as camping can get. There are no services available and you need to clean up your area before leaving. Also, you need to understand the rules of the area. For example, fires are not allowed without a permit.
If your camping preferences are a little bit higher, consider staying in campgrounds such as Tuttle Creek, Portagee Joe or Diaz Lake.
In addition, there are plenty of campsites along US-395.
Lodging
You can find plenty of hotels and motels in Lone Pine, Big Pine, and Bishop. I personally, prefer to stay in Bishop since there are more options (and a nice selection of places to eat).
Nearby Attractions
I love this area! I would visit every few months if possible. There is so much to do. Therefore, you have plenty of options to stay in the area for several days.
Here are some ideas for trip planning purposes:
Mount Whitney Portal – In here, you can find the trailhead to the climb to the top of Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the continental United States. Even if you are not intending to climb the mountain, the Portal offers amazing views, trails, fishing opportunities, and campgrounds.
Manzanar National Historic Site – One of the 10 camps were Japanee American were incarcerated during WWII.
Copper Top BBQ – I have to include this place in the list of attraction since the food for sale is delicious. Get something to eat if you pass by.
Bishop Creek – Easy access to beautiful mountain scenery and several lakes.
Erick Schat’s Bakery – This is a must if you are visiting Bishop. The bakery has the most delectable bread, pastries, and cookies. Plus, they have sandwiches, salads and other dishes. You have to check this place out. There is so much you can buy to take home (or give away).
Location
The Alabama Hills are located 210 miles from Los Angeles. As you can see, it is not that far from the big city so it is a nice option for a long weekend away.
The “Hills” are located 6 miles from Lone Pine, 55 miles from Bishop and 100 miles from Mammoth Mountain. The latter counts with an airport which receives direct flights from cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Details
From US-395, take the Whitney Portal Road and then, turn right at the aptly named Movie Road. You are going to start seeing the rock formations right away.
The main (connecting) roads are paved. However, the vast majority of the roads in the area are unpaved. The roads are in good condition but you have to exercise caution.
Since most roads are unpaved and there are no signs, it is not that simple to find exact locations. Be alert and have somebody helping you with the navigation.
A short visit should take you between two to three hours (including a short hike). However, the entire day can be spent here if you are interested in spotting several film locations and rock formations.
There are no services in the area. Go prepared with food, water, and enough gas on the tank.
The Alabama Hills can be seen from above if you continue driving towards Mount Whitney’s Portal
You can visit the Lone Pine Film History Museum to learn more about the history of the area.
Have you visited the Alabama Hills? What movie location have you visited?
Your photographs are absolutely stunning. I so enjoyed looking through that had to catch myself and be sure to read your words, too! Such an interesting place, and love that heart arch.
Fascinating! We are driving from San Diego to Lake Tahoe up 395 in June, so we are passing right through this area. Thanks for sharing! I had no idea about the Alabama Hills!
That is nice! It would be nice to make a quick stop in here. I have never been to Tahoe. I know it is one of those places I have to visit in California.
Not sure who had the great idea to film here but that person nailed the location. So many movies filmed there. And, I see so many commercial filmed there too.
I had never heard about Alabama Hills before now but I can sure see why this is such a popular spot for filming movies! Those mountains look so gorgeous! Thanks for putting the place on my radar 🙂
I am sure not a lot of people know the place by its name. Now, if we start to see movie scenes, I bet you a lot of people will say they “know” the place ;0)
This is my type of location! I could spend all day here! And it’s so close to LA! I’m due for a trip back to Southern California and this is definitely on my list now!
As soon as I saw the first picture I knew that had to be where Tremors was filmed! I love that movie and have seen it so many times! What a fun place to visit! Oh, and my middle name is Whitney named after Mt. Whitney!
What an amazing location I can understand why it’s been used in so many movies – I can just see Godzilla appearing on the horizon! The heart arch is too cute! For film locations, my children are currently keen on Harry Potter filming locations – it’s fun to spot real life places we’ve seen in movies. #WkendTravelInspiration
I can see Godzilla there too. Not sure what he will be destroying around there though. It has to be fun to visit Harry Potter locations. I am sure kids love to go to those places.
I lived in California for over ten years and hubby for about 25 years. Neither of us has heard about the Alabama hills until recently. It looks worth exploring next time we’re in the USA.
I haven’t been to Alabama Hills, but I must confess to visiting a few different movie, TV, and book locations. So far my absolute favorite “on location” location has to be the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou in Morocco (GoT). Thanks for another inspiring link up! #wkendtravelinspiration
I can see why film directors choose the Alabama Hills – such startling rock formations. I’ve seen some rocks similar to some of these. They are called Monkey Fingers and they were in the Dades Gorge in Morocco! Isn’t that strange but not?
I had never heard of the Alabama Hills before but wow – such stunning scenery! It almost looks “otherwordly” doesn’t it? I can see why the area has been used in so many different films. Thanks for sharing!
Yes, it is a very particular place. I guess it can be used as an outer space set depending how you place the camera. There are many enclosed areas that are good for filming.
Aww the heart arch is so sweet! Funny how I might have seen these mountains in so many different films and never knew where they were. Thanks for sharing!
Love the heart arch! I can see why they movies choose this location – looks very uninhabited, so no skirting around onlookers. There is so much visible beauty around me, that am not very interested in film locations, nor the movies or celebs, since it’s a world of pretend. Also since we lived for 3 decades an hour from hollywood, universal studios, Six Flags, Sea World, etc. and half an hour from Disney Land.
I didn’t know you lived in Southern California for so long. I guess you escaped to another area of California like many people do. The Eastern Sierra is an ideal place to disconnect and enjoy nature. Gladly, it is not that far from Los Angeles.
Headed to Cali in May for the first time ever from East TN. We have the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains, but I am so looking forward to seeing the Sierra Nevada!
Interesting, I had not heard of the Alabama Hills and it really is an impressive place. I can see why it is used so much in movies. Plus, it really isn’t too far from LA. I would love to go and maybe do some hiking.
This is a paradise for hikers. Not only this area but the entire Sierra. The towns along the highway cater to people who visit your for the different outdoor activities. I like the vibe of these places a lot.
I’m fascinated. How have I never heard of Alabama Hills? And why am I not familiar with mount Whitney? What is wrong with me?! Really enjoyed this post..learn something new everyday…#theweeklypostcard
Corey, I am glad you learned about those in here. I am not sure Mt. Whitney is well known across the United States. A lot of people think the highest peak or longest mountain range is in the Rockies.
Seeing how beautiful the Alabama Hills are I am not surprised the place was used as a filming location for so many movies. I’d love to hike those hills in early spring or maybe in fall. I’m sure in summer it’s very hot there. #TheWeeklyPostcard
I have never visited the area during summer. Temperature varies with altitude. The Hills are about 5,000 feet above sea level. They may get a bit hot. But you can get up to 10,000 feet by car. Those areas should be cooler.
I can’t believe so many movies were filmed here! Seen so many of them and had no idea. So cool that this place has so many different types of terrains so that it can be used for different scenes! Seems like a great place to visit!
Yes, so many have been filmed and I guess some more are going to be filmed in the future. It is not as popular as it used to be for movies but it stills gets attention.
I love checking out which movies have been filmed in locations I have visited, there have been some big movies filmed at Alabama Hills! I drove past these on a recent road trip but had no idea about the movie history or the fact that the tallest mountain in the mainland USA, Mount Whitney was there!
Incredible photos of an incredibly beautiful and unique area. – we have been through there and I kept expecting John Wayne or the Lone Ranger or a herd of bandits to come pounding out from behind those rocks. It
I am sure it is a trill for fans of the cowboy movie genre. Last time I visited, the Lone Pine Film Fest was taking place. There were tons of people dressed in cowboy gear.
Awesome views! Some pictures made me feel like I´ve already been there! Must have seen it in movies a lot, although never knew the actual name of this place! Thanks for sharing!
What a fun story. My husband and I were just talking the other day about how the dessert and mountains outside of LA have stood on for all kinds of locations around the U.S. (and I guess across eh galaxy). some of the rock formations are very cool.
Locations scouts seem to be interested in places full of rocks and interesting formations. They like to film on the Vazquez Rocks area too. I have not been in more than 10 years.
Ruth, this sounds like so much fun! Plus, I love getting a chance to do some hiking somewhere as gorgeous as the Sierras. Definitely tucking this away for our next trip to California. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard!
Of the movies/shows you listed, I’ve only seen one (Star Trek Generations), but I swear that this landscape looks familiar from a bunch of other shows that I’ve watched. I think it’s interesting that many TV shows that supposedly take place all over the world do an establishing shot (probably stock) to set the scene and then cut to something that was filmed in this area. Really saves some money instead of flying to the actual location! That photo of the heart arch is my favorite. I’ve never actually been to the Alabama Hills, but it looks interesting geologically, too, in addition to the entertainment business connection.
Michelle, I find that interesting too. There are a lot of movie studios close to where I live and work. Sometimes, I see things that seem out of place and I know it is because the studios are using it. For example, I have see seen New York City police cars being towed around. I know those are being taken to the studios!
A gorgeous landscape that’s for sure! You’ve captured all the various rock formations perfectly, love that loop-shaped one! I was trying to think of what movies it made me think of, but once you said Iron Man I instantly recognised it. Definitely my kind of place to visit. #wkendtravelinspiration
I have never heard of Alabama Hills. We have passed by the area on our way to Mammoth several times. It looks so interesting and I love the diverse landscape. I can certainly understand why this is a popular backdrop for filming. One of our favorite movie location visits was Salzburg, Austria to see the Sound of Music film locations. Thanks for this tip and we hope to stop by here when we’re in the area.
Ruth Daly says
Your photographs are absolutely stunning. I so enjoyed looking through that had to catch myself and be sure to read your words, too! Such an interesting place, and love that heart arch.
Ruth says
Oh, thanks a lot! This is a very unique place. I think that is the case when big boulders are involved. The heart arch was a great find.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linky says
Great shots. Thanks for sharing at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2017/04/making-dangerous-situation-kid-friendly.html
Ruth says
Thanks for stopping by!
Sharon says
Fascinating! We are driving from San Diego to Lake Tahoe up 395 in June, so we are passing right through this area. Thanks for sharing! I had no idea about the Alabama Hills!
Ruth says
That is nice! It would be nice to make a quick stop in here. I have never been to Tahoe. I know it is one of those places I have to visit in California.
Jim says
Beautiful landscapes
Ruth says
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the photos.
ladyfi says
I can see why it’s such a good location for films! Gorgeous shots!
Ruth says
Not sure who had the great idea to film here but that person nailed the location. So many movies filmed there. And, I see so many commercial filmed there too.
Photo(Geo)grapher says
What beautiful raw landscapes! Great photos!
Ruth says
So nice to know you liked them. Many thanks!
Carol says
They do have an alien ty pe of look even though there just rocky hills. Great fun!
Ruth says
That is so true! Some rocks resemble faces. I only saw a small portion of the area. Wander what else is there.
Birgitta says
Great photos here!
Ruth says
Thanks much!
Jane @ Raincity Librarian says
What an incredible setting! I could absolutely imagine so many ways that scenery could be used, and so close to the big city!
Ruth says
Seems to be the perfect place to film all sort of movies. The museum in town has more information and scenes of the movies filmed in the area.
Van says
I had never heard about Alabama Hills before now but I can sure see why this is such a popular spot for filming movies! Those mountains look so gorgeous! Thanks for putting the place on my radar 🙂
Ruth says
I am sure not a lot of people know the place by its name. Now, if we start to see movie scenes, I bet you a lot of people will say they “know” the place ;0)
Christine | The Journey of Christine says
This is my type of location! I could spend all day here! And it’s so close to LA! I’m due for a trip back to Southern California and this is definitely on my list now!
Ruth says
That sounds great! Southern California offers so much. Love all the landscapes and interesting places around here.
Sharon Wagner says
I love all the arches. And the smiling rock is quite the character. I can see why the area has gotten so much attention from Hollywood. It’s cool.
Ruth says
Agree it is cool! I had seen them from above but had never stopped. It would not be the last time since everything around this place is gorgeous.
Jessi (Two Feet, One World) says
Ha wow those are some popular mountain ranges! And I can see why, they are beautiful.
Ruth says
Glad you liked them Jessi! This is the longest mountain range in the United States. You be tit is popular.
Sam | Away She Went says
As soon as I saw the first picture I knew that had to be where Tremors was filmed! I love that movie and have seen it so many times! What a fun place to visit! Oh, and my middle name is Whitney named after Mt. Whitney!
Ruth says
Really? Are you named after the mountain? That is so cool. Tremors is one of the most popular movies that have been filmed there.
Lolo says
Oh that’s way cool and realllly beautiful! Sadly, again, I never knew about this! #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
You have to move back to California! Just kidding but you have to come and visit and discover new places.
jo says
What an amazing location I can understand why it’s been used in so many movies – I can just see Godzilla appearing on the horizon! The heart arch is too cute! For film locations, my children are currently keen on Harry Potter filming locations – it’s fun to spot real life places we’ve seen in movies. #WkendTravelInspiration
Ruth says
I can see Godzilla there too. Not sure what he will be destroying around there though. It has to be fun to visit Harry Potter locations. I am sure kids love to go to those places.
Rhonda Albom says
I lived in California for over ten years and hubby for about 25 years. Neither of us has heard about the Alabama hills until recently. It looks worth exploring next time we’re in the USA.
Ruth says
This would be a perfect place to explore. Plus, you can add all the other great places located nearby. This is an outdoor lover paradise.
Trekking with Becky says
Incredible! I especially love the ❤️ heart ❤️ and the big arch.
Ruth says
The arches are great! There are like 10 around the area. I need to go back and see more of them.
Jim ~ ReflectionsEnroute says
I haven’t been to Alabama Hills, but I must confess to visiting a few different movie, TV, and book locations. So far my absolute favorite “on location” location has to be the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou in Morocco (GoT). Thanks for another inspiring link up! #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
I have heard about and see pictures of the place you mentioned. It is incredible! I really wan to visit Morocco one day.
budget jan says
I can see why film directors choose the Alabama Hills – such startling rock formations. I’ve seen some rocks similar to some of these. They are called Monkey Fingers and they were in the Dades Gorge in Morocco! Isn’t that strange but not?
Ruth says
Funny you mentioned Morocco since Jim in the previous comment mentioned it too. First time I hear about the Monkey Fingers. Have to google that one!
Minoru says
Hi! Your photos are very beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Ruth says
Thanks! That means a lot coming from you!
Jill says
I had never heard of the Alabama Hills before but wow – such stunning scenery! It almost looks “otherwordly” doesn’t it? I can see why the area has been used in so many different films. Thanks for sharing!
Ruth says
Yes, it is a very particular place. I guess it can be used as an outer space set depending how you place the camera. There are many enclosed areas that are good for filming.
La Brutta Figura says
Aww the heart arch is so sweet! Funny how I might have seen these mountains in so many different films and never knew where they were. Thanks for sharing!
Ruth says
That is true! Once you go there, it is easy to recognize it once you are seeing a movie or commercial.
jesh StG says
Love the heart arch! I can see why they movies choose this location – looks very uninhabited, so no skirting around onlookers. There is so much visible beauty around me, that am not very interested in film locations, nor the movies or celebs, since it’s a world of pretend. Also since we lived for 3 decades an hour from hollywood, universal studios, Six Flags, Sea World, etc. and half an hour from Disney Land.
Ruth says
I didn’t know you lived in Southern California for so long. I guess you escaped to another area of California like many people do. The Eastern Sierra is an ideal place to disconnect and enjoy nature. Gladly, it is not that far from Los Angeles.
Kathy Marris says
What an amazing landscape. I can see why this setting would be so popular for using as movie scenery.
Ruth says
Yes, movie makers in the 30s and 40s had a good eye.
Amanda says
Headed to Cali in May for the first time ever from East TN. We have the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains, but I am so looking forward to seeing the Sierra Nevada!
Ruth says
That is so exciting! I have never been to those mountain ranges in the east. Would be nice to check them out. Have a wonderful time in California.
Tanja (the Red phone box travels) says
I’m sure I’ve seen them in a movie or two 🙂 #theweeklypostcard
Ruth says
Ha, ha, I am sure too!
Anisa says
Interesting, I had not heard of the Alabama Hills and it really is an impressive place. I can see why it is used so much in movies. Plus, it really isn’t too far from LA. I would love to go and maybe do some hiking.
Ruth says
This is a paradise for hikers. Not only this area but the entire Sierra. The towns along the highway cater to people who visit your for the different outdoor activities. I like the vibe of these places a lot.
Corey at fifi + hop says
I’m fascinated. How have I never heard of Alabama Hills? And why am I not familiar with mount Whitney? What is wrong with me?! Really enjoyed this post..learn something new everyday…#theweeklypostcard
Ruth says
Corey, I am glad you learned about those in here. I am not sure Mt. Whitney is well known across the United States. A lot of people think the highest peak or longest mountain range is in the Rockies.
Anda says
Seeing how beautiful the Alabama Hills are I am not surprised the place was used as a filming location for so many movies. I’d love to hike those hills in early spring or maybe in fall. I’m sure in summer it’s very hot there. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
I have never visited the area during summer. Temperature varies with altitude. The Hills are about 5,000 feet above sea level. They may get a bit hot. But you can get up to 10,000 feet by car. Those areas should be cooler.
Lauren says
I can’t believe so many movies were filmed here! Seen so many of them and had no idea. So cool that this place has so many different types of terrains so that it can be used for different scenes! Seems like a great place to visit!
Ruth says
Yes, so many have been filmed and I guess some more are going to be filmed in the future. It is not as popular as it used to be for movies but it stills gets attention.
Only By Land says
I love checking out which movies have been filmed in locations I have visited, there have been some big movies filmed at Alabama Hills! I drove past these on a recent road trip but had no idea about the movie history or the fact that the tallest mountain in the mainland USA, Mount Whitney was there!
Ruth says
Well, now you know. I am sure you will have a blast taking photos in the area.
Sallie (FullTime-Life) says
Incredible photos of an incredibly beautiful and unique area. – we have been through there and I kept expecting John Wayne or the Lone Ranger or a herd of bandits to come pounding out from behind those rocks. It
Ruth says
I am sure it is a trill for fans of the cowboy movie genre. Last time I visited, the Lone Pine Film Fest was taking place. There were tons of people dressed in cowboy gear.
Anna says
Awesome views! Some pictures made me feel like I´ve already been there! Must have seen it in movies a lot, although never knew the actual name of this place! Thanks for sharing!
Ruth says
Seems like movie lovers are familiar with the area in one way or another. Yes, the views are great.
eileen g says
What a fun story. My husband and I were just talking the other day about how the dessert and mountains outside of LA have stood on for all kinds of locations around the U.S. (and I guess across eh galaxy). some of the rock formations are very cool.
Ruth says
Locations scouts seem to be interested in places full of rocks and interesting formations. They like to film on the Vazquez Rocks area too. I have not been in more than 10 years.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
Ruth, this sounds like so much fun! Plus, I love getting a chance to do some hiking somewhere as gorgeous as the Sierras. Definitely tucking this away for our next trip to California. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard!
Ruth says
Nice! I am sure you will have tons of fun discovering this area.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
Of the movies/shows you listed, I’ve only seen one (Star Trek Generations), but I swear that this landscape looks familiar from a bunch of other shows that I’ve watched. I think it’s interesting that many TV shows that supposedly take place all over the world do an establishing shot (probably stock) to set the scene and then cut to something that was filmed in this area. Really saves some money instead of flying to the actual location! That photo of the heart arch is my favorite. I’ve never actually been to the Alabama Hills, but it looks interesting geologically, too, in addition to the entertainment business connection.
Ruth says
Michelle, I find that interesting too. There are a lot of movie studios close to where I live and work. Sometimes, I see things that seem out of place and I know it is because the studios are using it. For example, I have see seen New York City police cars being towed around. I know those are being taken to the studios!
David | Travelsewhere says
A gorgeous landscape that’s for sure! You’ve captured all the various rock formations perfectly, love that loop-shaped one! I was trying to think of what movies it made me think of, but once you said Iron Man I instantly recognised it. Definitely my kind of place to visit. #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
I have not seen Iron Man (well, there are several movies about the character). Will need to check it out just to spot the Alabama Hills.
Mary {The World Is A Book} says
I have never heard of Alabama Hills. We have passed by the area on our way to Mammoth several times. It looks so interesting and I love the diverse landscape. I can certainly understand why this is a popular backdrop for filming. One of our favorite movie location visits was Salzburg, Austria to see the Sound of Music film locations. Thanks for this tip and we hope to stop by here when we’re in the area.
Sid Burke says
Joe Kidd is a character played by Clint Eastwood in the movie by the same name.
Russel Beaufait says
Do you have any video of that? I’d want to find out more details.|