BRECKENRDIGE, Colo. – Isak Heartstone, the giant, friendly-faced wooden troll in Breckenridge who became so popular it had to be removed from its original location, has come back to life and is ready to greet visitors should they venture out to find him this summer.
The 15-foot tall art installation created by Denmark native Thomas Dambo was dismantled last fall and was relocated near the Stephen C. West Ice Arena after residents complained the troll was creating issues with traffic, trash and parking near a residential area of town.
Dambo returned to Breckenridge last month to build the troll from the ground up and Town of Breckenridge officials worked for several weeks after that to build a new trail, aptly named “Trollstigen,” or the “Route of the Troll” on a previously existing social trail, they said in a news release.
“Our goal was to ensure this trail has longevity and is sustainable, given the anticipated number of visitors over the coming years,” said Open Space and Trails Manager Anne Murphy. “The crew worked hard to create a safe, enjoyable experience for those visiting Isak.”
Those wishing to remain by Isak’s side a little longer after a selfie can do so thanks to stone benches that have been added to the viewing area at the end of a flagstone pathway that leads visitors from a picnic area/trailhead to the troll and back.
Officials do urge those wanting to see Isak to not park at the arena but instead to hike or bike from the Breckenridge Welcome Center to the Illinois Gulch trailhead on the south end of Breckenridge.