The narrative follows an elderly solitary man who lives on a high mesa, observing wildlife and caring for a devoted black mare. Encounters with wild horses, rustlers, and a harsh desert winter force him into action during a tense wild-horse drive, capture, and eventual escape. Interwoven scenes depict meadow creatures and the rhythms of mountain life while showing practical skills used to survive and protect animals. The story traces the breakup of a wild band, tests of endurance in remote country, and the central figure's return toward a settled home after trials on the range.