Four families from South Dakota, each with strong ancestral ties to the pioneer past, meet for the first time as they trade in their modern clothes and conveniences for those of the late 1800s. Packing supplies and provisions in covered wagons, the pioneers set out together on the journey of a lifetime.

The pioneers recover from a broken wagon and continue their journey with their guide Chase Iron Eyes leading the way. Chase warns them of possible tensions arising as they cross Native American territory, and leaves them to complete the journey on their own. Spirits are lifted when they arrive at their new settlement. But the celebration ends when an encounter with neighboring tribes gives Diane such a scare that she and Mike decide to go home.

Still reeling from one couple's departure, the pioneers put all hands on deck to start construction on their homestead. Their first order of business is digging the foundation for the first sod homes.

The remaining pioneer couples are busy constructing their first sod home on the prairie. Getting used to their new surroundings and trying to source food and water is proving difficult, but it's nothing compared with the giant storm rolling in over the prairie.

After a devastating flood, the pioneers decide to rebuild their settlement, this time on higher ground. They are reunited with Mike and Diane, who return to the homestead and bring along their son Kyle.

Still struggling from the storm that took almost everything, the pioneers are desperately trying to make use of the supplies they acquired by trading their weapons with the locals.