
Elizabeth Thatcher is a young teacher accustomed to high society, so she experiences culture shock when she gets her first classroom assignment in Coal Valley. Life in the small mining town is filled with challenges. A recent explosion has killed more than a dozen of the town's miners, compelling the widows of those men to work in the mines to earn money. Constable Jack Thornton, also a newcomer, is not as welcoming, because he believes Thatcher's wealthy father doomed his career by assigning him to Coal Valley so he could protect Elizabeth. Over time, though, Elizabeth and Jack become closer and begin a relationship. Janette Oke's books about the Canadian West inspired the series.
The sudden arrival of Lucas' mother makes Elizabeth more than a little nervous; Lee injures his back; a newcomer's arrival causes Rosemary to reflect on what she wants in life.
A geyser erupts at the oil rig and everyone in Hope Valley drops everything to help. Nathan is summoned for an inquiry by a Mountie from his past and Jesse takes a liking to driving Lee's motorcycle.
The inquiry begins, and Nathan starts to question his own actions. Meanwhile, a new family, the Canfields, buy Gowen's cabin and Elizabeth welcomes them to Hope Valley. Lee's sister and niece arrive in Hope Valley.
It's graduation day at the Jack Thornton School house. Rosemary and Lee adjust to having family in town. A letter from Dottie sends all the Coulters reeling. Clara learns Jesse made a big mistake.