There are many ways to make money in Red Dead Redemption 2, some more legitimate than others. However, if you want to make *a lot* of money without glitches or cheats, your pool of options shrinks somewhat. There is one method, though, that’s guaranteed to bring in one heck of a payday: the Poisonous Trail side mission. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the mission step by step.
How to Complete the Poisonous Trail Side Mission in Red Dead Redemption 2
The Poisonous Trail mission involves tracking down a series of treasure maps which are hidden at distinct locations. Finding all the maps leads to a final reward of four gold bars which can be sold for $2,000. Each map hints at the next map’s location, but if you’re impatient we’ve provided the exact spots to look below. Also, you need to find all the maps to receive the final gold bar payout. This means you can’t just head straight to the final treasure’s location from the start.
Map 1
To begin your treasure hunt, head north from Valentine up to Cairn Lake. When you reach Cairn Lake, look for a small abandoned cabin on the southeast side of the lake itself. Inside the cabin you’ll find a lockbox underneath a bed which contains the first map.
Map 2
For the second map you’ll have to find a landmark called Face Rock. Travel south from New Hanover into the Lemoyne region and then look at your map. Using the “Scarlett Meadows” signage as a guide, start at the “R” in “Scarlett.” Then, travel east and slightly south to find Face Rock up on a hill. As you approach Face Rock, go past it and look for a thin tree standing beside a fallen tree. The second map is found inside that thin tree trunk.
Map 3
The third and final map is located far over to the east end of the game world. Start at the “R” in “New Hanover” and then head south. You’re looking for an odd snake-like mound which is to the northwest of the coastal Van Horn Mansion. Near the mound you’ll spot a distinct pile of rocks. Search the rock pile to find the third map.
Final Treasure
The final map directs you to a waterfall with a hidden cave behind it. You’ll find this waterfall on the western side of the Elysian Pool landmark. Looking at your map, Elysian Pool is just northeast of the “E” in “Hanover” (referring to New Hanover).
As you explore the cave, you’ll eventually reach a large bottomless pit. Turn to the left and you’ll spot a solid perch you can reach with a running jump. That perch leads down into a pool of water. Swim over to a ledge on the left and you’ll find the area with the gold bars.