3 Utah men missing while on search for legendary gold mine in central Arizona desert

3 Utah men missing in Arizona treasure hunt

APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. — Authorities say three Utah men are missing after they set out to find the legendary Lost Dutchman Gold Mine in central Arizona, which has been entrenched in triple-digit heat for weeks.

The Maricopa County sheriff’s office began a ground and aerial search Sunday after family members called to say they had not heard from the men since they left Utah five days earlier.

Family members say the men planned on hiking into the rugged Superstition Mountains and exploring the area.

Two of the men reportedly have medical conditions, and it was not known if they have enough medication or camping provisions.

Sheriff’s officials say a vehicle belonging to the men was found at the Lost Dutchman State Park, but it hadn’t been used for days.

They say one of the men was rescued last year when he became lost on another hike to find the Lost Dutchman’s gold, which treasure hunters have been seeking since at least 1892.