Young but determined, the man of the family too soon, Jake Zane comes of age with the help of a massive mute escaped slave. It's conquer the wilderness, protect your mother and sisters, or die trying. A grueling challenge: 2,000 miles of rutted trail with little or no civilization, no water or far too much, wild animals, wicked weather, and savages both red and white. The good news: you have family and friends, and hundreds more making the trip. That is, until disease and accidents threaten everything. The Oregon Trail is the artery that brought lifeblood to the west, long before wagon or rail. It was the ultimate challenge for thousands who wanted land and opportunity.