One of the region’s most ambitious treasure hunts is about to begin. On August 23, the Seven Paces Treasure Hunt officially launches in Grand Forks, featuring a custom-crafted treasure from River City Jewelers and a grand prize worth over $20,000 in cash and jewelry.
This year’s hunt centers around a newly released book filled with puzzles, hidden meanings, and riddles that point toward a secret location within Grand Forks. Treasure hunters must interpret clues, explore local landmarks, and piece together historical and cultural hints to claim the prize.
“This is more than a scavenger hunt, it’s an immersive story layered into the real world,” said co-creator Justin Auch. “We want players to see Grand Forks in a completely new light.”
The Grand Forks Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is the event’s presenting sponsor, joined by community partners including River City Jewelers, Altru, Ideal Aerosmith, Alerus, the Downtown Development Association (DDA), and Bremer Bank.
💎 A Treasure Unlike Any Other
River City Jewelers designed and donated a one-of-a-kind piece of custom jewelry that forms the physical centerpiece of the treasure. The jewel’s value, both artistic and financial, adds another layer of excitement and uniqueness to this year’s hunt.
“It’s not just a prize—it’s a piece of Grand Forks history,” said co-founder Matt Winjum. “Someone’s going to unlock something beautiful, and we can’t wait to see it happen.”
📖 How It Works
Start Date: August 23, 2025
How to Play: Purchase the Seven Paces book, available online, in local businesses, and at www.sevenpaces.com
Book Price: May vary by location
Prize Value: $20,000+ in cash and custom jewelry
Clues & Storyline: Embedded in the book; follow the trail, solve the puzzles, find the treasure
Only one person or team will claim the grand prize—but everyone gets the thrill of the chase.
About Seven Paces
Seven Paces is a Grand Forks-based creative team led by Justin Auch and Matt Winjum, passionate about storytelling, history, and adventure. Their hunts fuse puzzles, art, and place-based narrative into unforgettable community experiences.