Hell on Wheels: Season 3
Season 3 Lore Primer
Key plot threads, lore context, and character stakes you need to remember before diving into this season.
- Directly follows the overarching narrative developments of Hell on Wheels Season 2.
- Faction dynamics and core character alliances shift under escalating external stakes.
- Crucial mysteries introduced previously reach key turning points and narrative reckonings.
- Sets up serialized story arcs that build directly toward the climactic season finale.
Episode Guide
Season 3 Progress Shield
Big Bad Wolf
Aug 10, 2013
After a hard winter, Cullen and Elam travel to New York to secure their positions on the railroad as Durant fights for his legacy from prison.
Eminent Domain
Aug 10, 2013
An unexpected roadblock forces Cullen to make a difficult choice as a reporter arrives in Hell on Wheels. Elam struggles with his new boss.
Range War
Aug 17, 2013
Cullen and Elam search for their stolen food on the prairie; a stranger's arrival threatens Elam's family.
The Game
Aug 24, 2013
Cullen and Elam try to secure a new lumber source following a railroad accident; Durant tells Louise a secret about Cullen.
Searchers
Aug 31, 2013
Cullen helps Elam track down a dangerous criminal; the town prepares to move down the tracks.
One Less Mule
Sep 7, 2013
Durant files an injunction against Union Pacific, threatening Cullen's position; Elam deals with a dangerous newcomer.
Cholera
Sep 14, 2013
When a cholera epidemic hits Hell on Wheels, Cullen must find fresh water before his workers die. Durant faces political fallout.
It Happened in Boston
Sep 21, 2013
After his workers defect to the Mormons, Cullen recruits Durant to help get them back. Meanwhile, Sean and Mickey's past comes back to haunt them.
Fathers and Sins
Sep 28, 2013
With General Grant's deadline only two days away, a gang of riders attacks Cheyenne while Cullen and Elam pay Durant a visit.
Get Behind the Mule
Oct 5, 2013
Cullen grapples with consequences while Elam mounts a rescue attempt. Durant receives Gen. Grant and the U.P. board in Cheyenne ahead of the deadline.