Hal Croves and azdave35,
I hold the belief that the two trail Stone Maps are authentic and lead to somewhere in or surrounding the Superstition Mountains. But I cannot prove that. I have a weight of circumstantial evidence that sways me in that direction but no solid iron clad proof. It is what I believe, my own opinion based on what I've personally learned.
On the other hand, in spite of all the Videos, the in depth research, the Tnet Forum Threads, hundreds of posts and thousands of views, there is not one single shed of proof the trail Stone Maps are not authentic. There is a weight of circumstantial evidence but again nothing that proves they are fakes, or frauds or even that Travis Tumlinson was a fraud or a fake. It's all opinion, 100% personal opinion.
I couldn't care less if anyone believes what I believe, I've reached my conclusion and keep an open mind for anything new that might show up. New as in Hal's solid connection of the Tumlinson's history with Stone Maps. Something that cannot be dismissed offhand even by the most hardened skeptics. Once again it doesn't prove anything but it adds weight to one side of the circumstantial evidence.
The debate will go on and on with both sides claiming premature victory. A few posts here have offered some great insight and perspective. Those who have kept an open mind, regardless of their belief, are the winners.
Matthew