In this adventure Western from Anthony Mann, James Stewart plays Glyn McLyntock, a man of dubious past who guides a band of pioneers from Missouri to a life in the Columbia River Basin. When settlers have their food and livestock stolen, Glyn crosses rivers and mountains to ensure his survival through the winter. Along the way, he meets an ally (Arthur Kennedy), a handsome San Francisco gambler (Rock Hudson), and a farmer's beautiful daughter (Julia Adams). A film that today is considered a classic of the genre.