The worst episodes of Hell on Wheels
Ranked by viewer rating, lows first. Lit marks on the season rail place this list across the run. Vote on a placement to back it or contest it.
- 01
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.
- 02
A Western about a former Confederate soldier (Anson Mount) and his quest for revenge on the Union troops who killed his wife. In the premiere episode, he heads west to take a job helping to construct the first transcontinental railroad.
- 03
Cullen attempts to reconnect with Elam upon his return. Meanwhile, Durant takes matters into his own hands while putting an old problem to rest.
- 04
Mickey's dirty business with Durant leaves him with blood on his hands. Meanwhile, Campbell's return to town complicates Louise's life.
- 05
Cullen's deadly actions leave him in a battle for his life; Lily fights to survive her plight in the wilderness; Durant tries to turn a tragedy into a political advantage.
- 06
An unexpected obstacle impedes Cullen's search for the sergeant; Durant convenes a search party to track down Lily in the wilderness.
- 07
In the Season 1 finale, Cullen's past and future collide, impacting his life on the railroad.
- 08
Cullen faces life-changing decisions in Utah as Truckee adapts to life without him. Meanwhile, Durant's lies compromise his new partner.
- 09
A cholera epidemic in Hell on Wheels has Cullen seeking fresh water to help save his workers. Meanwhile, Durant faces political fallout.
- 10
With Gen. Grant's deadline looming, a gang of riders attacks Cheyenne while Cullen and Elam pay Durant a visit.
- 11
Season 4 opens with Cullen awaiting the birth of his baby while laboring under the Swede at Fort Smith. Meanwhile, Durant deals with the fallout from a railroad accident.
- 12
Cullen makes a decision to ensure his family's safety. Meanwhile, Campbell hires a new federal marshal to clean up the streets.
- 13
Cullen grapples with Ruth's unexpected decision; Louise jeopardizes her reputation to fight for a story she believes in.
- 14
A stranger's arrival stirs up old feelings in Cullen and puts his family at risk. Meanwhile, the Swede faces consequences at Fort Smith.
- 15
The Swede's murderous rampage on the Hatch homestead results in a long overdue showdown with Cullen.
- 16
Elam and Cullen are assigned a mission of vengeance by Durant. Meanwhile, Lily tries to settle in at the settlement.
- 17
Despite fighting to save his own life, Durant must try to keep the railroad from going under. Meanwhile, Cullen comes to the aid of an old comrade.
- 18
Cullen's position is threatened after Durant files an injunction against the Union Pacific. Meanwhile, Elam deals with a dangerous newcomer.
- 19
Cullen and Durant fight to save the life of a criminal. Meanwhile, Louise tries to provide support as Ruth copes with a great loss.
- 20
Cullen is in California with the Central Pacific Railroad, and must deal with the new workers.
- 21
Cullen enlists new workers to help him move a locomotive on a sled.
- 22
Cullen and Durant reunite in Salt Lake City to meet with President Grant about the future of the railroad. Meanwhile, Swede enacts his plan against the Mormons.
- 23
The golden spike, government hearings and unpredictable actions mean new beginnings and endings for the survivors.
- 24
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.
- 25
As the railroad prepares to leave Cheyenne behind in the Season 4 finale, Cullen returns to Fort Smith to retrieve his family.
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