As I explore the charming town of Breckenridge, Colorado, I’m drawn to the fascinating tale of Isak, the Troll. but do you know his true story? Let’s dive in.
The Story Behind Isak
Isak, a 15-foot-tall, 500-pound wooden Troll, was created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo in 2018. Commissioned by the Breckenridge Festival of Arts, Isak was meant to be a temporary installation. However, his whimsical presence quickly captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
The Girls with the Stone Hearts
Three girls from the town visited Thomas Dambo and gave him three heart-shaped stones, which he placed in the heart of the troll.
Popular Destination
Isak’s initial home, near the Riverwalk Center, became a hotspot for visitors.
How Did He Become a Problem?
Some residents complained about congestion, noise pollution, and the Troll’s sheer size, which allegedly obstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
According to Thomas Dambo “The problem is to my understanding, that some people park in a near by residential area, and it has upset a small group of local citizens because of the extra cars on the streets.”
Vandalism of Isak
In 2020, vandals targeted Isak, damaging his arms and legs. This senseless act sparked outrage and sympathy.
Take Isak Down
Citing safety concerns and maintenance costs, local authorities decided to remove Isak in 2021. The decision sparked protests and petitions. “Save Isak!” campaigns flooded social media.
HELP ME SAVE ISAK HEARTSTONE!!
Thomas Dambo posted on social media asking locals for help to save Isak. He expressed frustration, questioning why the troll was being removed just three months after its completion. He concluded by saying that it would take three years for the local weather to cause significant damage to the troll.
Current Location and Accessibility
After a brief exile, Isak was relocated to the Trollstigen Trail.
You can find him at 1103 S. Ridge St, Breckenridge, CO 80424. If you park in the ice skating lot, it’s an easy 1/4-mile hike to reach Isak the Heartstone.
Not the only troll sculpture in Colorado
Isak Hearthstone is not the only troll sculpture. Driven by foot traffic, tourist attraction, and Thomas Dambo’s ambition to build 1,000 recycled trolls worldwide, the second troll was built in Colorado. Her name is Rita.
Rita the Rock Planter, the charming troll of Victor, resides at the trailhead of Little Grouse Mountain, just a short drive from Cripple Creek. To find Rita, follow CO-67S towards Cripple Creek, then take a sharp right turn onto CO Rd 87, a wide dirt road.
