We grew up reading about trolls and other mythical creatures and were always told they were merely fairy tale characters… or are they? If you live in Colorado, trolls are very much real and can be seen via this Centennial State trail:
Colorado, meet Isak Heartstone, AKA the Breckenridge Troll!
Google/Patrick Duffy
Located outside of - you guessed it! - Breckenridge - the Breckenridge Troll is billed for being the “troll that has stolen the hearts of thousands,” as he was created of recycled wood and stands (err, sits) at an impressive 15-feet-tall.
Flickr/Anthony Quintano
Originally part of 2020’s Breckenridge International Festival of Arts, Isak was created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo and, unfortunately, caused a stir amongst residents upon its original reveal, as the increase in foot traffic to see the Troll was deemed a public nuisance.
Flickr/Anthony Quintano
Fortunately, Isak the Breckenridge Troll is still upright and well in his new home along the Trollstigen Trail, a permanent residence created just for the sculpture (hence the trail name).
Google/Nancy Stiles
Isak Heartstone and the Trollstigen Trail can be accessed via the Breckenridge Welcome Center by heading south on Main Street toward Peak 9, turning left at the light on Boreas Pass Road for .25 miles. You will find the Trollstigen Trailhead on the southeast corner by the Illinois Gulch trailhead (opposite the Stephen C. West Ice Arena).
Google/UOVDrummer79
Please note: Breckenridge also offers a free bus ride to see Isak via the Breck Free Ride (located next to the base of the BreckConnect Gondola).
Flickr/Anthony Quintano
To learn more about the Breckenridge Trail, please visit GoBreck’s website.
Flickr/Anthony Quintano
Do you have a favorite place that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado? Remember to nominate it here! For even more must-take Centennial State hikes, click on Colorado’s Most Refreshing Hike Will Lead You Straight To A Beautiful Swimming Hole.
Google/Patrick Duffy
Flickr/Anthony Quintano
Google/Nancy Stiles
Google/UOVDrummer79
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Address: Isak Heartstone, Breckenridge, CO 80424, USA
