As the Oregon Territory prepares to welcome settlers in 1846, wagons traveling the Oregon trail face increasing hostility from the Native Americans who have vowed to protect their land. Dispatched to investigate rumors that President Polk is sending troops to the Oregon Territory disguised as pioneers, New York Herold reporter Neal Harris (Fred MacMurray) is captured by angry natives as he makes his way back to the city. Enlisting the help of a comely Native American maiden to make a daring escape, Harris makes it out just in time to warn the trrops of a potentially devistating attack. Subsequently resigning from his position as a reporter, Harris decides to make a home for himself and his faithful maiden in the new territory.