Golden Crossroads Treasure Hunt - FAQs

1. What is The Golden Crossroads Treasure Hunt?

The Golden Crossroads is a real-world treasure hunt inspired by California’s railroad past and the spirit of exploration. Players follow poetic riddles, historical clues, visual puzzles and go boot-on-the-ground to uncover the location of a hidden token that can be exchanged for the cash prize – a 1-ounce American Gold Eagle coin.

2. How does the hunt work?

Players register on the Golden Crossroads Treasure Hunt site and pay a minimal $35 entry fee. There are 7 locked clues to solve. Players receive and solve one clue at a time to unlock and advance to the next clue. Each clue points toward a specific location somewhere in California tied to history, love, travel and mystery. The first player to solve and physically find the hidden token wins the prize.

3. Do I need to travel to find the treasure?

Yes. While you can study clues from anywhere, the final solution leads to a physical location that you must visit in person to locate and unlock the box to claim the treasure token. The hunt encourages exploration, local history, and a bit of adventure.

4. How do I know if I’ve found the right spot?

You’ll find a small box and a final clue on how to open the box. Once found, follow the instructions in the box to enter the information on the clue website. The hunt organizer will be notified of your solution and your contact information; and will then contact you to arrange delivery the American Gold Eagle coin.

5. Is there a time limit or deadline?

No official deadline. The hunt remains active until the token is discovered. Updates (if needed) will be posted on the official site and social channels to keep players informed of progress.

6. How do I know if the treasure hunt is still active and has not been found?

As a member, you can visit the website to determine if the hunt is still active. If you can access the site and the clues, then the hunt is still active. If you arrive at the website and see the message: “The Treasure Has Been Found!” - you will know the hunt has been solved and is now inactive. If the hunt has been solved and terminated you won't be able to register or pay for the hunt.

7. What happens after someone finds the treasure?

Once the winning token is verified, the hunt clue site will display the message: “The Treasure Has Been Found!”, and the shopping cart will be closed. Once the hunt has been solved the finder will receive the prize, and the clue solves will be announced publicly. Release of the finder(s) identity or anonymity is at their discretion. A new hunt may then be released and begin in a different California location.

8. Can I participate as a team or family?

Absolutely. You can hunt solo or with others. Many players enjoy solving riddles collaboratively, visiting historic sites, and making it a day trip or weekend adventure.

9. What should I bring or prepare for?

Bring a notebook, smartphone, map app, and perhaps a camera to document your journey. You should also bring a live link (cellular) to the clue website on your smart phone or iPad to validate your clue solutions on the spot at the treasure site. Comfortable shoes and curiosity are essential; you won’t need special tools or to dig — the treasure is hidden safely and legally in public view. If you’re hunting in a dangerous, precarious or restricted spot you are in the wrong place.

10. Who created The Golden Crossroads?

The hunt was created by a California-based designer and treasure hunt enthusiast inspired by treasure hunts such as Byron Preiss’s The Secret, local railroad history, and mysterious legends. The goal is to blend history, art, and adventure into one unforgettable experience.