The world of Yellowstone is built on grit, loyalty, and a fierce connection to the land—and the Dutton family embodies all three in spades. But when it comes to running the ranch, not all Dutton women are created equal. Some have the cunning, resilience, and heart needed to preserve the Yellowstone legacy, while others, despite their strengths, might not be ready to shoulder the immense responsibility that comes with leading one of the most powerful ranches in Montana. Starting from the bottom of our ranking, the least likely candidate is Summer Higgins, whose ideals often clash with the very traditions the ranch stands for. While she’s intelligent and passionate, her environmental activism could put her at odds with the daily operations that require hard, sometimes ruthless decisions. Moving up, Monica Long Dutton lands just above her—not because she lacks compassion or wisdom, but because her priorities often lie with her immediate family rather than the ranch itself. She’s a stabilizing force but tends to shy away from the cutthroat politics necessary for leadership. Next, we have Jamie’s birth mother, Garrett Randall’s ex, a shadowy figure in Dutton lore whose unpredictable nature could both be a strength and a liability; while she’s not deeply involved in the current ranch affairs, her raw determination can’t be overlooked. Mid-ranking is Lynelle Perry, the shrewd former governor, who has the political savvy to protect the ranch from outside threats. However, her ties to the Duttons are more strategic than emotional, which could cause friction when tough calls require family-first thinking. Climbing higher, we reach Kayce’s mother, Evelyn Dutton, whose presence in flashbacks showed a woman deeply committed to ranch life and raising her children with toughness and independence. Her ability to shape strong leaders is undeniable, though her sometimes harsh methods might alienate allies. In the runner-up position sits Teeter—yes, the tough-as-nails, foul-mouthed ranch hand whose work ethic, fearlessness, and loyalty to the Yellowstone brand make her an unexpected but formidable contender. She knows the ranch inside out, commands respect from the bunkhouse, and can ride, rope, and fight with the best of them. But topping the list, without question, is Beth Dutton. Love her or fear her, Beth is the ultimate protector of the Yellowstone legacy. She’s brilliant, ruthless, and unwaveringly loyal to her father and the ranch. Her ability to strategize, manipulate corporate threats, and crush anyone who dares cross her makes her the single most powerful Dutton when it comes to preserving their empire. In the end, running the ranch isn’t just about knowing how to mend a fence or herd cattle—it’s about outsmarting enemies, navigating politics, and protecting the land at all costs. And while all seven women have qualities that could serve the ranch well, Beth stands above the rest, the embodiment of the Dutton spirit: unyielding, fiercely protective, and willing to burn the world down if it means keeping Yellowstone safe.