Finding steady wealth in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires looking past typical hunting jobs and turning toward hidden hoards of wealth scattered around the frontier. One of the most lucrative pursuits is the Poisonous Trail treasure hunt, which begins with a highly isolated map tucked away in the freezing northern landscape. Securing this initial document is your crucial first step toward obtaining a massive payout that can heavily fund your camp upgrades and weapons.
Locating the Frozen Lockbox
To begin this quest line, you must travel far up into the snow-capped region of Ambarino near Grizzlies West. Players should set a custom marker for a small body of water known as Cairn Lake, which sits southeast of the abandoned settlement of Colter. On the edge of this frozen lake stands a lonely wooden cabin that often serves as a backdrop during early gunslinger missions.
Once you step inside the chilly interior of Cairn Lodge, bypass the main table items and immediately inspect the floor space underneath the bed. You will spot a small lockbox tucked away out of sight that contains the first vital piece of parchment. Open this box to acquire your prize, which kicks off your journey toward a massive reward worth thousands of dollars at any fence.
Deciphering the Rock Face Hint
Examining the drawing on the newly acquired document reveals a highly distinct geological formation that resembles a human profile outlined in stone. The illustration indicates a secret path winding past trees and leading down a slope right beside this iconic rock head. Experienced virtual trackers will recognize this exact landmark as Face Rock, which is located far to the south in the state of Lemoyne.
You can track down this specific destination by riding directly north of Hill Haven Ranch in the scenic region of Scarlett Meadows. The prominent stone profile will appear clearly on the left side of the dirt path as you travel northwest through the open fields. Once you spot the landmark, you know you are standing in the absolute correct spot to find the hidden solution.
Securing the Next Clue Location
From the front of the massive rock face, you must consult your drawing and carefully head to the right past a nearby tree. Walk down the short slope until you spot a withered tree trunk that stands roughly six feet tall with a fallen log resting right behind it. This specific spot matches the map drawings perfectly and serves as the exact hiding place for the next objective.
Approach the hollowed-out side of the withered tree trunk and use the interaction prompt to inspect the hole near the base. Your character will reach deep inside the wooden cavity to pull out the second document in the sequence. Collecting this item officially solves the first puzzle phase and prepares your map for the subsequent journey across Roanoke Ridge.
