Rhoads returned to Utah Territory in 1849, reportedly bringing significant amounts of gold, some of which was allegedly used to support the Deseret Mint.
Evidence cited by treasure hunters and historians includes petroglyphs, Spanish symbols, waybills, and historical accounts describing mining activity.
[4][1] Treasure hunters have sought the Lost Rhoades Mine for over a century, drawn by reports of hidden wealth and its legendary status.
[6][1] Expeditions by figures such as George "Tommy" Thompson and Mel Fisher have included SCUBA dives in Scout Lake to search for underwater entrances to the mine.
[5][1] Some legends surrounding the Lost Rhoades Mine suggest that it contains the golden plates of the Book of Mormon and the Sword of Laban, referencing elements of LDS Church scripture.
[7] Despite skepticism from geologists about the possibility of significant gold deposits in the Uinta Mountains, proponents of the legend cite unexplained findings, such as Spanish carvings, prayer trees, and historical accounts of treasure in the region.