Through interviews with five Burns Paiute women the traditional lifeways of the Northern Paiute people are depicted. These customs, according to archaeological records, are much the same as they were 5000 years ago. The film shows the Paiute's customs throughout a seasonal cycle, from root-gathering in the spring to building shelter in the winter. Topics covered include root gathering, berry gathering, food preparation, basket making, leather making, hunting, clothing and housing.