Yosemite Murder Mystery Captivates Viewers, Irks Park Regulars

Netflix's new murder mystery series "Untamed" has been a runaway success since its premiere on July 17, 2025. In the first two weeks, the show attracted a staggering 50 million viewers, making it one of the most popular titles on the platform. The series follows a moody federal agent, Kyle Turner, as he investigates crimes within the vast wilderness of Yosemite National Park.

While the show's intense opening sequence and gripping storyline have hooked audiences, it has also drawn criticism from those who know Yosemite best. Park rangers, hikers, and climbers have taken issue with the series' numerous inaccuracies, from the characters' use of incorrect gear to the presence of wildlife that would never be found in the park.

"Why claim Yosemite, one of the most unique and cherished landscapes in the national park system, as your setting yet then feature almost nothing recognizable about the park, either in scenery or people?" said Beth Pratt, a local author who has lived near Yosemite for over 20 years.

The creators of "Untamed" have acknowledged the challenges they faced in filming on location, citing limited access to the park during the summer months. As a result, much of the series was shot in British Columbia, Canada, which the show's star, Eric Bana, described as "a beautiful, beautiful part of Canada."

Despite the series' popularity, its departure from the realities of Yosemite National Park has left many longtime visitors and enthusiasts feeling frustrated and disappointed. As one former park ranger put it, "I lasted about 40 minutes into the first episode. That's 40 minutes of my life I can't get back."