A small-scale gold rush erupts in a Colorado town after treasure is found in a grave. The area quickly becomes a magnet for criminals and other ne'er-do-wells, but everyone is too intent on searching for gold to consider law and order. When Jason McCullough (James Garner), a clever and supremely laid-back gunslinger, wanders into town, he becomes the de facto lawman, aided by local eccentric Jake (Jack Elam). McCullough's ingenuity is tested, however, when he runs afoul of the tough Danby gang.