North Dakota Launches State’s Largest Treasure Hunt for $25,000

The hunt draws inspiration from regional Prohibition-era lore, specifically rumors linking the area to northern liquor routes once used by Al Capone. To participate, seekers must purchase a new book from Seven Paces, which weaves a fictional bootlegging narrative with maps and hidden clues. The company, founded by Justin Auch and Matt Winjum, previously hosted a $20,000 hunt that kept residents engaged for over two months, but this year’s iteration aims to surpass that scope.

"Aug. 21 is the starting line, not the finish line," said Auch, noting that the search will continue indefinitely until the prize is located. The project is backed by a coalition of local partners, including Visit Grand Forks, Choice Bank, and the Grand Forks Downtown Development Association. Starting at 6 p.m. on the launch day, the e-book will be available online, while physical copies will be sold at local venues like Urban Stampede and Rhombus Guys Pizza.