Centers on the Kilcher family and their community outside Homer, Alaska. Begun by patriarch Yule Kilcher who immigrated from Europe during WWII, and currently led by his sons, Otto and Atz Kilcher (singer Jewel's father) the family have lived on their land for four generations. The show also features the homesteaders who live nearby and interact with the Kilchers.
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. mobilises 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; 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; Jane and her cousin take Charlotte off the homestead for the first time since Otto's injury.
Before leaving for college, Etienne endures a homestead right of passage in the wilderness and August finally knows what he wants to do with his future.
