Western Wanderlust Chronicles

After a few cozy days of relaxation at Sangree Hut, Bill met up with Greg and me in Breckenridge, Colorado, where we set off on a whimsical mission: to find trolls! Our destination? The famous Isak Heartstone, Breckenridge’s beloved wooden troll, nestled in the snowy embrace of the Trollstigen Trail.

We bundled up in hats, gloves, and thick winter jackets, completely undeterred by the frosty conditions. Snowflakes clung to our clothes, capturing the excitement of a winter adventure. At the trailhead, the Trollstigen sign stood as a gateway to a magical world, hinting at the adventure that lay ahead. A caution sign reminded us of the icy trail beneath our boots, adding to the thrill of the winter hike. There’s something so special about heading out into the crisp, snowy wilderness , ready to uncover nature’s beauty with a dash of whimsy.

The Trollstigen Trail itself is a short, easy path that winds through a quiet, enchanted forest. The highlight, of course, is Isak Heartstone, a larger-than-life wooden troll sculpture crafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. This troll trail is an ideal family-friendly adventure that combines nature’s tranquility with the fun of art tucked away in the woods.

Our journey began in a winter wonderland, along a freshly packed trail lined with tall pine trees blanketed in snow. The branches overhead formed a picturesque canopy that framed our path, creating a serene and almost mystical atmosphere. The soft, muted light filtering through the trees made the forest feel untouched, inviting us to lose ourselves in the beauty of the winter landscape. It was the perfect setting for a brisk hike and a peaceful walk through the snow-covered forest, where every turn seemed to reveal more of winter’s charm.

Finally, we arrived at Isak Heartstone. Standing about 15 feet tall, the giant troll made of reclaimed wood welcomed us with a friendly, approachable expression. Nestled in the forest, Isak seemed perfectly at home, his outstretched arm and enormous hands dusted with snow, adding a touch of winter magic to his presence. Towering above us, he exuded a playful spirit that seemed to capture the essence of outdoor art.

Bundled against the cold, I couldn’t resist reaching out to tickle one of Isak’s massive feet. This small, silly gesture felt like a moment of pure joy, connecting me with the forest, the snow, and the playful spirit of this incredible sculpture. In that moment, I felt the magic of the Trollstigen Trail, where art and nature come together in a way that captivates adventurers of all ages. The journey reminded me how wonderful it is to explore the outdoors and finding unexpected delights along the way.

If you’re ever in Breckenridge, make sure to visit Isak Heartstone and experience this delightful winter hike for yourself. It’s a short trail, but one filled with charm, wonder, and memories that are sure to stay with you long after the snow has melted.