Though Twain’s quip about the 500-page octavo reigned true in the late 1800s, and probably reigns even truer today, Nevada’s history isn’t some book that can be understood by being read cover to cover. The history of this great state is meant to be discovered, like an Easter egg or a hidden treasure. Its layers are meant to be peeled back.

The first hunt—the creation of the Olson family—happened in October 2000. The idea was the result of the similar Portland Rose Festival Treasure Hunt. After the Olsons came to Nevada, they found themselves wanting to bring that same excitement to Northern Nevada. Their idea took hold on the Silver State’s historical hounds, and the family went on to host 13 hunts. They recruited the support of local businesses, including the Nevada Appeal, which printed the daily clues.

In 2014, the Olson family passed the torch to the Mahe family, who was entrusted in continuing the hunt. For eight years, the Mahes continued the tradition of the Nevada Day Treasure Hunt in Northern Nevada, working tirelessly to deliver exciting and historically relevant hunts.

In 2022, the McKee family took over the tradition, continuing the legacy that precedes them. The organization consists of family members who are passionate about the tradition of history, riddles, and Nevada pride that makes up The Nevada Day Treasure Hunt. Our family ranges from ages 17- 77 years of age, with varying degrees of professional experience. The leadership team is made up of men and women, all with varying years of living within The Silver State.

We vow to you, dedicated treasure hunter, that we will do everything in our power to ensure the hunt stays fun, fair, and full of Nevada history. Our clues may be complex and sometime downright discombobulating, but we will stop at nothing to carry on Clemens’ condensation.

All For Our Country,

The McKee Family