Bohannon abandons seeking revenge for the deaths in his family in order to battle Durant for control of the Union Pacific Railroad. Eva gives birth to a baby that was sired during her marriage to Gregory Toole. Elam proposes marriage to her, even though her post-partum depression weighs heavily on her. The Swede takes up with a Mormon family on their way to Fort Smith and later reveals his true nature.

In the Season 3 opener, Cullen and Elam travel to New York to secure their positions on the railroad. Meanwhile, Durant fights for his legacy from prison.

Cullen is forced to make a difficult decision; a reporter arrives in Hell on Wheels; and Elam has trouble with his new boss.

An attack on the cattle pens sends Cullen and Elam into the prairie in search of their stolen food. Then, a stranger's arrival threatens Elam's family.

After a railroad accident, Cullen and Elam forge deep into Indian territory to secure a new lumber source. Meanwhile, Durant tells Louise a secret about Cullen.

Cullen helps Elam track down a dangerous criminal. Meanwhile, chaos erupts in Hell on Wheels as the town prepares to move down the tracks.

Cullen's position is threatened after Durant files an injunction against the Union Pacific. Meanwhile, Elam deals with a dangerous newcomer.

A cholera epidemic in Hell on Wheels has Cullen seeking fresh water to help save his workers. Meanwhile, Durant faces political fallout.

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.

With Gen. Grant's deadline looming, a gang of riders attacks Cheyenne while Cullen and Elam pay Durant a visit.

In the Season 3 finale, Cullen deals with consequences, and Elam mounts a rescue attempt. Meanwhile, Durant receives Gen. Grant and the U.P. board in Cheyenne ahead of the deadline.