Every summer, thousands of Utahns obsessively study a poem, lace up their boots, and set off in search of hidden treasure worth $25,000!
Started in 2020 by Utah real estate entrepreneurs John Maxim and David Cline, the Utah Treasure Hunt has become a statewide phenomenon that brings together families, hikers, and puzzle-solvers alike.
If you’re new to the hunt, or just need a refresher, this page will get you up to speed on everything you need to know for the 2026 treasure hunt!
-> Already familiar with the Utah Treasure Hunt? Head straight to our 2026 Treasure Hunt Updates page for the latest clues, theories, and community chatter
The hunt itself is simple: John and Dave release a poem, and somewhere in those lines are clues leading to a hidden $25,000 treasure.
Solving it…wheww, now that’s the hard part. The clues can point to history, landmarks, wordplay, measurements, trail details, or things that only make sense once you’re in the right place.
While Trails Utah isn’t affiliated with the Utah Treasure Hunt, we love that it brings families, friends, and curious minds outside to explore trails in Utah. We follow along as an unofficial resource by sharing public updates, pointing hunters to official sources, and encouraging everyone to search safely and respectfully. That includes staying aware of trail etiquette and taking care of the places you visit along the way.
Each year, a new poem is released that contains clues pointing to the treasure’s location. The poem is the only direct source of information. As the weeks progress, if the treasure hasn’t been found, John and Dave release additional clues. Here’s how to follow the official clues:
Email Newsletter – Sign up at utahtreasurehunts.com/ to receive clues directly.
Instagram Stories – Clues appear next on their accounts: @onthejohn and @the.cline.fam
Official Website – Clues are later archived on utahtreasurehunt.com/hunts/2026-poem
We summarize all this information weekly in our 2026 Treasure Hunt Updates post.
-> Si hablas español y buscas una descripción general rápida, mira este video (¡todo en español!) que resume el lanzamiento de la búsqueda del tesoro de Utah de 2025.
Thousands of people across Utah are already preparing for the 2026 hunt. Whether you’re joining solo, with friends, or making it a family adventure, you’re not alone.
Follow updates, share theories, and dive deep into the puzzle on:
Reddit: r/utahtreasurehunt
Instagram hashtags: #utahtreasurehunt #utahtreasurehunt2026
Podcast: Cache Me Outside – A group of treasure hunt enthusiasts sharing thoughts and theories throughout the season.
For weekly clues and the latest theories, follow our 2026 Treasure Hunt Updates.
What Trails Utah is following along?
Trails Utah is not affiliated with the Utah Treasure Hunt, but we love that it brings families, friends, and curious minds outside to explore trails in Utah.
We follow along as an unofficial resource by sharing public updates, pointing hunters to official sources, and encouraging everyone to search safely and respectfully. That includes staying aware of trail etiquette and taking care of the places you visit along the way.
Before you head out, review our Trail Etiquette Guide.
What does Trails Utah do?
Trails Utah helps move trail projects forward across the state by working with local governments, land managers, funders, trail builders, and community partners.
We help turn trail ideas into real public access.
Did you know that John and Dave fund the $25,000 prize themselves each year? It’s truly their passion project.
While they’ve partnered with sponsors before, the $25,000 prize still comes straight from their pockets—putting both their passion (and wallets) to the test. Want to help them (and your business) out? Consider becoming a sponsor.
Sponsorships offer a unique way to join the fun—like the video clue reveals from Element United and First Class Fireplace, which reached 70,000+ highly engaged followers who rewatch every frame for hidden clues.
If your company wants to get involved, send John (@onthejohn) or Dave (@the.cline.fam) a direct message on Instagram.
