Travel / Thursday, 20-Nov-2025

Batavia Man Died in Yellowstone Looking for Famed Treasure

Batavia Man Died in Yellowstone Looking for Famed Treasure

At least two others have died searching for a supposed trove of jewels and gold hidden somewhere in the West.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

A 53-year-old Batavia man who died in a fall at Yellowstone National Park last June was searching for the famed treasure of gold and jewels reportedly hidden somewhere in the West. Author Forrest Fenn said he hid $2 million worth in treasure, then left cryptic clues to its location in a poem. At least two other people have died looking for the loot.

Jeff Murphy was hiking along Turkey Pen Peak when he fell approximately 500 feet down a steep slope, according to a report produced by the park. The park began a search for him on June 8 after his wife reported him missing.

Thousands of hunters have been combing the western United States for the millions of dollars of gold and jewels supposedly hidden by Fenn, a New Mexican art dealer who left clues to the location of his treasure in a memoir, titled The Thrill of the Chase. In 2014, BACKPACKER correspondent Brian Mockenhaupt headed to New Mexico to try to track it down (he came back empty-handed). 

Woman Dies in Rare Grizzly Bear Attack Near Yellowstone
Hiker Dead in Suspected Grizzly Attack Near Yellowstone National Park
The Internet Claimed Animals Were Fleeing a Supervolcano Eruption in Yellowstone. It Was a Hoax.
Hypothermia Caused Second Hiker's Death on Katahdin, Medical Examiner Finds

Follow Us

Newsletter

Be the first to know about new products and promotions.

Subscribe with your email

Tranding

Tags

trendglee

Fresh, fast, and fun — all the entertainment you need in one place.

© Trendglee. All Rights Reserved. Designed by trendglee