Winter sets in over the course of the last few episodes of Season 1. The finale makes it clear that the Duttons are in for a tough season: The ranch is running out of food for the livestock, they’re unable to secure a loan for more, and the snow blocks the roads to the ranch. Can the Duttons hold off villains like Banner Creighton and Donald Whitfield when they may not even be able to stave off the bitter winter?
In “1883,” the Native American man who recommends the valley to James Dutton warns him the winters can be especially harsh. They’re so harsh, in fact, that James (Tim McGraw) and Margaret (Faith Hill) both fall victim to it. Now, the Duttons will need to get through with few resources, little money, and a deadly enemy at their doorstep. Any number of problems could befall them as they wait for Spencer’s return — enough, perhaps, to end their legacy before he arrives.
As the calendar rolls over, it might be tempting to assume nothing can go wrong, because we know the ranch survives into the 21st century. But we’re not so sure of victory. It’s possible that when the next season picks up, the ranch will be taken, the Duttons will be dead, and Spencer will be left to fight back alone. That’s just how harsh the winter can be.