The Breckenridge troll hike is a fun and unique family-friendly walk in Colorado where you can see a giant wooden troll named Isak Heartstone.
The friendly troll in Breckenridge was designed by an artist from Denmark named Thomas Dambo, and it’s one of almost 50 similar trolls that he’s built around the world, including a bunch in the United States.
This travel guide will give you the location and directions for the Breck troll, what to expect on the short hike, and everything else you need to know before you go!
Breckenridge Troll Hike: What To Expect
The Breckenridge troll hike is short, flat, and easy for all ages. It’s not even a hike. You only have to walk about 400 feet to reach the troll from the parking area, so you can get there in less than 5 minutes.
Even though it’s only a quick stroll in nature, you’re surrounded by pine trees and it’s a great setting. We really enjoyed the experience. Dogs are also allowed on the trail if they’re leashed.
After a short walk on the ‘Trollstigen Trail’ you’ll see Isak Heartstone, the friendly wooden troll, sitting on the side of the hill looking down at you. Fun! He’s got his arm wrapped around a pine tree.
This spot is starting to become pretty popular now, so you may have to wait in line a few minutes to take pictures. Please don’t climb on the troll, so we can all continue to enjoy it for many years to come.
Kids can easily do this hike, and it’s flat enough it should be fine for strollers and wheelchairs in the summer as well, although the trail’s not officially made to ADA standards.
The trail is meant to be a one way loop because of its popularity, so after you reach the Breck troll, you’ll turn the corner and follow the loop back to the trailhead. However, if you want to go further, you can continue on the Illinois Creek Trail.
As always, please remember to keep the trail clean, be considerate of other hikers, and leave no trace. Thanks and happy travels!
Trailhead sign for the Breck troll hike
Where Is The Troll In Breckenridge? Location/Directions
The Isak Heartstone troll is located in Breckenridge, Colorado, at the Illinois Creek Trailhead, which is near the Stephen C. West Ice Arena.
The trailhead is just a 5 minute drive from the Breckenridge town center, or it’s also easy to get there from nearby towns like Frisco, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Vail.
You can use the map below to navigate you directly to the parking area (or click here). Most of the parking lot is reserved for the ice rink, but there are some free parking spaces next to the trailhead that are marked with a troll sign. You can use these for the hike if they’re open.
If the troll parking is full, you can also park at the Breckenridge South/North Gondola lots and walk 20 minutes, bike 5-10 minutes, or ride the bus to the trailhead. The Breck Free Ride regularly leaves from Breckenridge Station.
Fun Facts About Isak Heartstone
Isak Heartstone, the Breckenridge troll, is a 15 foot tall wooden sculpture made by Danish artist Thomas Dambo using recycled scrap wood.
Thomas has built about 50 similar trolls in states like Florida, Maine, and Wyoming. Outside of the USA, he’s also made trolls in Europe, China, Singapore, and South Korea.
You can read more about the artist (and see a map of his many troll creations) on his website here.
The troll in Breckenridge was built in 2018 as an exhibit for the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts. After the festival, Isak became famous and attracted thousands of visitors to Breckenridge wanting to see him. Locals complained, and there were plans to move or destroy the sculpture.
Thankfully, Isak Heartstone was saved by relocating him to his current location in 2019, where he remains today. We’re hoping he’ll stay there permanently, because he’s a fun work of art.
Hours & Entrance Fees
The Breckenridge troll is always open to the public 24/7. However, if you want to have the place to yourself then the best time to visit is in the morning or early evening.
It’s FREE to visit the troll. There’s no entrance fee. Parking was also free when we visited.
Visiting Isak Heartstone In Winter
You can still visit the Breckenridge troll in winter, but the trail is not maintained so you’ll want to be careful not to slip on mud or ice.
Winter can be a fun time to visit the troll because the snow gives everything a nice look. A fresh blanket of snow can be great for photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
• Is The Breckenridge Troll Still Open?
Yes! The Breck troll is open 24/7/365 at the time of this article (2023).
• Where Is The Troll In Breckenridge?
Isak Heartstone is located at the Illinois Creek Trailhead. There’s limited parking at the trailhead, or you can park elsewhere in Breckenridge and walk, bike, or bus to the trailhead.
• How Long Is The Breckenridge Troll Hike?
Less than 5 minutes to reach the troll, and then the same amount of time to go back to the trailhead and parking area. It’s very quick and easy. The distance is only a few hundred feet.
• How Many Trolls Are In Breckenridge?
Isak Heartstone is the only troll Breckenridge has to offer, and he’s currently the only troll like this in Colorado. However, you can find other trolls from Thomas Dambo across the United States and in other countries around the world. There’s a full map on his website here.
More Colorado Hiking Guides
Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this guide for visiting the Isak Heartstone troll in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Don’t forget to check out my other Colorado hiking guides before your trip!
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