First, I want to acknowledge the passing of Duane Ollinger, a patriarch unlike others. He was a man in search of answers and deeply wanting to come upon the clue to the universe that might set us all free. Chad Ollinger is under supervision for potential mental rehabilitation following his supposed murder of a cellmate (trial can't occur until he's competent). I was pleased that Duane saw where the team was headed before he passed and that Charlie came back to the ranch, seeking answers for the curses upon those who worked there.

The team this year was made up of very intelligent and experienced men. Josh and his father definitely brought the treasure hunting/mining aspects, as well as historic research. James brought the native culture understanding, as well as anthropology/archaeology and historic knowledge. Eric brought the geology aspect that was greatly necessary. Chili, the new addition has shown some Chad aspects of being brave and powerful, very good at munitions. Charlie was the eyes for the team. It was a very good mix.

Josh amazed me most at the end of the series when he lost his way, yet again, in a tunnel. For a man with mining experience, that he doesn't drop a rope or make markings to find his way back was truly surprising. Sometimes, he is so eager, he reminds me of a labrador waiting for papa to throw a stick so he can retrieve. There's no doubt he's experienced, but he is under the pressure of video documentation. 

James having a good understanding of the giant civilization, is my very favorite member of the team. I do believe, as many tribes have reported, that there were earlier mighty people in the Americas who built amazing structures and mined. The Native People elongated their young's heads to look like these original people they saw as gods, who had gold and build megalithic locations, mounds culture, and technology that the Native People became focused upon. Even the sacrifices to the gods were likely offerings to the giant people who were cannibals. As they got closer to their target, they came across a pictograph (drawing on the wall. A petroglyph is carved) of a 6-fingered hand. This is a classic giant symbol. 

Eric, the geologist, has always been a steady and strong asset to the team. He is also brave and agile. I enjoyed seeing him grin so big when they drilled through to the golden staircase area. 

After much crawling around underground and surveying, following antique journals, and chasing Rhoads, Mormons, Aztecs, and even Giants, the team ended the season in an area they believed was the golden stairway referred to in code. I guess, my concern was that following Rhoads journals would be like following Mel Fisher to the Atocia after it was already picked over.

In the final episode, the men were down inside the earth, facing a body of water that Chili would traverse in scuba gear. They had followed teohold "Moki" stairs carved into the cavern, much like the ones Native People carved to Pueblos up hillsides. 

Chili entered a chamber where there were a couple of pelvic bones from a deer that were likely used as ceremonial masks. Chili took a big risk removing his tank to shove it in front of him through tight spaces. Chili entered a large chamber where a timber laid. It showed that they were working there when water wasn't there. We know Aztecs were known for trapping locations they want to hide, by diverting water into them. A manmade support structure was there. The sonar was picking up something behind it. They signaled Chili to get out so they can reassess what's behind the supported wall. They ended the season with Chili having an air and tank situation deep in the cavern. It felt like a bit of a bad editing choice. If another episode was comingm that choice might have made sense, but to end a season - a bit of a whack up the rearend.