When the going gets tough, the tough seek new frontiers. Six recession-hit patriots from Oregon become greenhorn old miners and risk everything. Heading north to Alaska to dig for gold they hope to strike big and save themselves from financial ruin

The greenhorn miners continue risking it all to hit gold in Alaska, but disaster strikes the project when Jack drops a 22,000lb rock-shaker off a lowboy.

The crew races to set up the mining plant and start running dirt. When the families arrive from Oregon and question the lack of gold and the men's only mechanic becomes dangerously ill, the tension builds so high Dorsey and Todd come to blows.

The team attempts to finally run dirt through the wash plant. But a visit from the Department of Fish and Game reveals a violation, jeopardizing their vital water supply to the mine. Then disaster strikes as Todd's daughter fights for her life.

The miners continue to run dirt but an equipment malfunction brings the operation to a halt. Meanwhile, James Harness collapses and Jimmy Dorsey drives a wedge between himself and the crew when he takes on an extra job to earn cash.

After 80 days, the miners are behind schedule and out of money. They need to find $10,000 worth of gold within two days or the families will be sent home. Meanwhile, after Dorsey struggles with the wave table, tensions flare and fists fly.