Otto is trampled by a cow during a severe snowstorm and must be rescued before he succumbs to his life-threatening injuries.

After his brush with death, Otto has a long, painful road of recovery ahead. Eivin and August bear the burden of their father's injury.

Otto considers leaving cattle ranching behind and Atz Sr. mobilizes a group of veterans to bring water to a local homesteader.

Eivin considers expanding the Kilchers' reach by becoming a bush pilot. Tela takes Alysse dipnetting and Jane's cousin Kate comes to visit from Texas.

August must make some hard choices about his future. To help him clear his mind, Eivin brings his brother on a trip to Red Mountain.

Before leaving for college, Etienne endures a homestead rite of passage in the wilderness and August finally knows what he wants to do with his future.