Stories of a vanished gold metropolis buried amid Yellowstone’s great wilderness accompanied early European explorers. Early in the 1800s, this myth became especially popular when fur trappers claimed to have seen odd shining constructions in the distance that seemed to be composed of valuable metals. According to the narrative, an ancient civilisation used the natural heat of the geysers to create complex golden temples close by for its enigmatic ceremonies. According to some legends, the city would only show itself under specific climatic conditions—typically at sunset when the light reflected off the mineral deposits surrounding hot springs produced an illusion of golden structures. Although no such city was ever discovered, the rumour endured for decades and drew many treasure seekers to the area, hence supporting early investigation and documentation of Yellowstone’s characteristics.
