Gnome Hunt Rules
Guidelines for a magical and safe adventure through the enchanted realm

Art by @lillylin.art
Treasure Hunt Gameplay Rules
The Prospect Park Treasure Hunt is a live puzzle adventure where teams race to solve 12–18 interconnected clues hidden throughout the park. Each clue solved reveals the location of the next, bringing you closer to the finish line — and victory.
Note: These rules are for reference only. Full instructions and updates will be given on the day of the hunt.
1. Clues & QR Codes
- Clues are hidden on QR codes placed around the park. When your team scans a QR code, it will reveal a puzzle or riddle to solve.
- Puzzle types vary and may include riddles, ciphers, secret codes, wordplay, and logic challenges to name a few.
- Every hunt blends new puzzles with returning favorites to test both your wits and teamwork.
- Clues may reference landmarks or labels shown on your custom map, so keep it handy.
- No internet or outside resources are required; all puzzles can be solved using your phone to scan QR codes, your map, paper, and pencil.
2. Teams
- Each team is made up of 3-6 players. Children are welcome to participate, but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- Teams can sign up as a full team or, if you sign up solo or in a pair, you will be assigned to a team with other adventurers on the day of the hunt.
- Your team must remain together while traveling between clues — splitting up is not allowed.
3. Arrival & Staggered Starts
- Please arrive during the designated check-in window to receive your hunt packet and instructions. After check-in, teams will start at different clues spread throughout the park to avoid crowding.
- Each team moves cyclically through the hunt, visiting every clue once. After finding their original starting clue at the end of the cycle, teams must return to the starting area to officially finish the race.
4. Your Hunt Packet
At check-in, your team will receive a packet containing everything you need to complete the hunt:
- A custom map of the park
- A starting clue QR code
- Blank paper and a pencil
- Other useful and secret information that will be disclosed on the day of the hunt
5. Prizes
- The winner is the first team to complete all the clues and return to the starting area in the fastest time. We stagger start times and locations so the winner may not be known until everyone has completed the hunt.
- Second and third place teams will also receive prizes.
- There are bonus challenges along the way that unlock extra rewards and take time off a team's final score.
6. General Gameplay Guidelines
- Safety Reminder: Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid dangerous terrain, and prioritize safety over speed throughout the hunt.
- Be respectful of the park, other teams, and bystanders — don't disturb nature or non-players.
- Follow all local park rules and regulations.
- Teams are responsible for keeping their phones charged and ready to scan QR codes.
- Safety first: Watch your step, be mindful of uneven terrain, and prioritize safety over speed. No clue will ever require dangerous climbing, entering restricted areas, or breaking park rules.
- Liability: Each participant is responsible for their own actions and assumes all risks associated with participating in the hunt.