$1 Million Treasure Hunt is Underway in Canada

The Great Canadian Treasure Hunt’s first clue is a 13-stanza poem.

An actual treasure chest filled with around $1 million in gold coins is hidden somewhere in Canada - intentionally hidden by a mining consortium to celebrate the country’s “rich mining heritage and spirit of adventure.” All you have to do is follow the clues. “Like the prospectors before you, you’re chasing discovery - driven by grit, curiosity, and the pursuit of exploration,” say the official Great Canadian Treasure Hunt website.

A series of monthly hints released over the next year will help them chart the course. The master clue consists of a 13-stanza poem referencing a phoenix, “zinc-toned waters,” and “sunken whispers,” among many other pointers. An additional clue was released on September 3, and reads:

"Though crystal clear and calm it seems,

This mirror hides more than it gleams.

A single step may seal your fate,

Best not disturb the water’s state."

However, before you hop on a plane and head into the wilderness with your compass and shovel, you need to know that (sadly) the hunt is restricted to Canadian citizens. But the good news for Canadians is that they will not need to figure out a way of carrying the gold back to base, as the hidden treasure chest actually only contains an alphanumeric code similar to a lottery ticket that will serve as proof of success - after which you can claim your riches.

But it's going to be a significant challenge as the grand prize has been squirrelled away somewhere on publicly accessible land in a country that encompasses about 3.5 million square miles - and the clock is ticking. According to the contest’s guidelines, the reward is forfeited if it isn’t located by December 31, 2026.