The gambler has plans involving a gold mine, a railroad, and a hotel, all swirling around blackmail, bribery and murder. U.S. Marshal Henry McKay is tasked to investigate a stage robbery and murders, while his older brother, James, leads one of the first cattle drives from Texas to Denver, Colorado. Intrigue and betrayal follow as the drovers battle the elements, Indians, rustlers, and a giant, prehistoric bear. When they get to Denver, their troubles are not over—no, they just fell from the proverbial frying pan into the fire.