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Make The Lodge Your DL Troll Hunting HQ
Make The Lodge Your DL Troll Hunting HQ
In the spring and early summer of 2024, the efforts of Thomas Dambo, Project 412, and hundreds of local volunteers added Detroit Lakes Troll Hunting to a growing global phenomena. By June, six giant trolls emerged from discarded materials, each strategically placed across various locations in the area. You’ll find them at spots like Detroit Lakes City Park, Dunton Locks and Detroit Mountain. These whimsical sculptures are more than mere art—they carry a powerful environmental message. Dambo’s commitment to recycling and transforming trash into beauty shines through.
Embark on an interactive giant troll-hunting adventure! Six trolls await discovery in Detroit Lakes. All are from 0.3 – 8.9 miles of The Lodge on Detroit Lakes (see our driving map links to their parking areas). Begin your quest with Alexa, the first troll, located in Detroit Lakes City Park by the beach. The sixth troll, an elusive golden Rabbit must be found by deciphering clues hidden within the trolls’ symbols and letters—keeping the location secret for others to enjoy.
Each troll has its own personality and backstory, inviting families to engage in imaginative play and storytelling. The trolls are designed to be touched and climbed on, making them perfect for children and adults alike to enjoy. The experience is more than just visual; it’s educational. It’s a fun and engaging way for families to learn about sustainability while enjoying the great outdoors.
DETROIT LAKES TROLLS FAQ
Follow this optimal order to accumulate clues and discover the six Dambo trolls when embarking on your troll-hunting adventure in Detroit Lakes:
Click above image to enlarge.
Alexa is a troll mixing an elixir. This troll is a character woven into a fairy tale crafted by artist Thomas Dambo. The concept revolves around helping Alexa brew an elixir to break a curse cast by an evil golden rabbit upon humans. Visitors can use this story to embark on a treasure hunt, seeking giant sculptures scattered across Detroit Lakes and even as far as Fargo and Perham. Alexa has a challenge for you!
Trolls in Detroit Lakes: Alexa’s Elixir
Accessibility: This troll stands proud in the city park and is view by the parking lot. This is the easiest troll to find and has a story to tell. A great troll to start your troll hunt!
Difficulty Level: Easy
Location: Detroit Lakes City Park | 1355 Washington Ave, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
Driving directions from The Lodge:
- Head northwest on Frontage Rd toward N Shore Dr 0.6 mi
- Turn left onto N Shore Dr 1.1 mi
- Continue onto Roosevelt Ave 0.1 mi
- Turn left onto N Shore Dr 0.3 mi
- Turn left onto Park Lake Blvd 335 ft
- Turn right 171 ft
ARRIVAL @ LONG/LAT: N 46° 48.422′ W 095° 50.717′ | Detroit Lakes City Park, Minnesota 56501
Click above image to enlarge.
Barefoot Frida is an outdoorsy type that loves small but fun challenges! Does she have a challenge for you?
Trolls in Detroit Lakes: Barefoot Frida
Accessibility: Barefoot Frida is located about 1/3 mile from the parking area. The walk has mild inclines.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Location: Randolph Ave & Highway 54, Detroit Lakes, MN
Driving directions from The Lodge:
- Head south on Frontage Rd toward Co Hwy 24/Co Hwy 53 0.1 mi
- Turn left onto Co Hwy 24/Co Hwy 53 374 ft
- Continue onto Co Hwy 54 0.1 mi
ARRIVAL @ LONG/LAT: N 46° 48.087′ W 095° 48.245′ | Lake View Township Minnesota
Click above image to enlarge.
Long Leif earned his name due to his impressive height—he stands at a towering 36 feet (Thomas Dambo’s tallest troll)! Leif is a friend of the trees. He enjoys hanging out with them and he has become as tall as them! His features include a long, flowing beard, expressive eyes, and a welcoming demeanor. His arms stretch wide, inviting visitors to engage with his story and the surrounding environment. To find Long Leif, keep an eye out for his unique identifier necklace—a symbol and number that tie into the larger treasure hunt.
GRAVELL LANE NOTE: Do not turn down Gravell Lane as it is a private lane with a dead-end. Some folks are getting confused and it’s causing problems for the property owner!
Trolls in Detroit Lakes: Long Leif
Accessibility: You can find him about a 1/3 mile from the parking lot on a wooded trail. The walk is fairly easy with slight hills.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Location: Detroit Mountain Recreational Center | 29409 170th St, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
Driving directions from The Lodge:
- Head south on Frontage Rd toward Co Hwy 24/Co Hwy 53 – 0.1 mi
- Turn left onto Co Hwy 24/Co Hwy 53 – 374 ft
- Continue onto Co Hwy 54 – 308 ft
- Turn left onto Randolph Rd – 0.7 mi
- Turn right onto Highland Dr – 0.8 mi
- Turn right onto Mountain Rd – 1.0 mi
- Continue onto 170th St – 0.4 mi
- Turn right onto Detroit Mountain Rd – 0.5 mi
- Turn left – Destination will be on the left – 384 ft
- ARRIVE AT Detroit Mountain Recreation Area
- PARK near the Tubing Lodge; Look for the cluster of birdhouses to begin your trek.
Click above image to enlarge.
Ronny Funnyface earned his playful name due to his quirky expression and whimsical features and expression. Ronny stands tall, constructed entirely from recycled materials; his face a canvas of fun—expressive eyes, a mischievous grin, and perhaps a few secrets hidden in his features. Keep an eye out for his unique identifier necklace—a symbol and number that will guide you on your troll-hunting adventure.
Trolls in Detroit Lakes: Ronny Funnyface
Accessibility: You can find Ronny on a fully paved trail that runs along the lake. It is easy to access about a 1/4 from the parking lot.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Location: Dunton Locks County Park | 24878 Dunton Locks Rd, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
Driving directions from The Lodge:
- Head northwest on Frontage Rd toward N Shore Dr 0.6 mi
- Turn right onto N Shore Dr 108 ft
- Turn left at the 1st cross street onto US-10 W 2.1 mi
- Turn left onto US-59 S 1.1 mi
- At the traffic circle, continue straight to stay on US-59 S 1.8 mi
- Turn right onto Dunton Locks Rd 479 ft
ARRIVAL @ LONG/LAT: 46° 47.080′ W 095° 52.683′ | 24878 Dunton Locks Rd, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
Click above image to enlarge.
Jacob loves to listen, that’s why his ears are so big! Make sure to tell him a story when you visit him. Jacob Everear’s name is a whimsical blend of “Jacob” and “evergreen.”, part of his connection to evergreen trees. Jacob’s face reflects wisdom and age, with a long, flowing beard. His eyes hold secrets, inviting you to unravel his story; his arms stretch wide, embracing the magic of the outdoors. As you follow the riddles and clues provided by Alexa’s story to lead you to Jacob Everear be sure to keep an eye out for his identifier necklace—a symbol and number guiding your troll-hunting adventure.
Trolls in Detroit Lakes: Jacob Everear
Accessibility: Jacob is located on a short trail about 1/3 mile from the parking lot. The trail is mainly even.
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Location: Wannigan Regional Park | 200 N River Dr, Frazee, MN 56544
Driving directions from The Lodge:
- Take Frontage Rd to US-10 E 0.2 mi
- Turn right onto US-10 E 5.3 mi
- Continue on Co Hwy 10 to your destination 3.3 mi
ARRIVAL @ LONG/LAT: N 46° 44.379′ W 095° 41.646′ | Burlington Township Minnesota
Click above image to enlarge.
The Golden Rabbit’s name hints at its magical nature. It plays a pivotal role in the larger folk tale woven by artist Thomas Dambo. The rabbit’s curse binds humans, and your quest involves helping the troll Alexa brew an elixir to break that curse. To Find the Golden Rabbit, begin your journey at Alexa’s Elixir in Detroit Lakes City Park and follow the trolls in the order shown on this webpage. Collect letters from the trolls’ symbols and mirrors—these will guide you to the rabbit’s secret location. Decipher the word formed by these letters to unveil where the elusive Golden Rabbit awaits.
GRAVELL LANE NOTE: Do not turn down Gravell Lane as it is a private lane with a dead-end. Some folks are getting confused and it’s causing problems for the property owner!
Trolls in Detroit Lakes: Golden Rabbit
Accessibility: This is a difficult sculpture to find because first you need to solve the riddles and then you need to walk to the Rabbit. The trail to the Rabbit is only about 1/2 mile from a parking lot, but you will need to go through woods, over hills, through dales (no rivers or Grandma’s house – only if you get off trail!) to find the secret Rabbit and solve the riddle!
Difficulty Level: Hard
Location: You have to solve the riddle to find the Golden Rabbit! Of course, you can also use the driving link we include, but it is still a challenge from the parking area.
Driving directions from The Lodge:
- Head south on Frontage Rd toward Co Hwy 24/Co Hwy 53 – 0.1 mi
- Turn left onto Co Hwy 24/Co Hwy 53 – 374 ft
- Continue onto Co Hwy 54 – 308 ft
- Turn left onto Randolph Rd – 0.7 mi
- Turn right onto Highland Dr – 0.8 mi
- Turn right onto Mountain Rd – 1.0 mi
- Continue onto 170th S – 0.4 mi
- Turn right onto Detroit Mountain Rd – 0.2 mi
- Arrive at Detroit Mountain Parking Lot: The trail to the Rabbit is only about 1/2 mile from a parking lot.
When you find the Golden Rabbit: You can peep the rabbit on the very last part of your trek. You get quite the surprise when you find him but also a sense of calm. Enjoy your visit with the Golden Rabbit; it took a bit of time to get to him.
Click above image to enlarge.
KSTP 5 Report: Trolls Taking Over Detroit Lakes
Discover the Magic of a Detroit Lakes
Troll Hunt Adventure
A family outing that weaves art, nature, and education awaits you in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Picture this: towering trolls made from recycled materials, nestled amidst the serene lakeside landscape. Thomas Dambo’s whimsical sculptures captivate both young and old, inspiring awe and curiosity.
Why Visit?
Artistry and Sustainability: These remarkable trolls blend creativity and environmental consciousness. Witness the beauty of recycled art up close—a testament to the power of imagination.
Hidden Treasures: Follow the clues, explore the scenic backdrop, and uncover the trolls’ secret locations. Each discovery adds to the enchantment.
Valuable Lessons: Beyond entertainment, Dambo’s trolls teach us about stewardship and the magic of repurposing materials.
So, gather your loved ones, pack a picnic, and lace up your hiking shoes. The Detroit Lakes Troll Hunt promises wonder, learning, and endless fun for all ages. Let the adventure begin!
Detroit Lakes Joins a Global Phenomenon
As of June 2024, Thomas Dambo has built similar art installations in 17 countries and now 18 states, but the Detroit Lakes installation will be the largest in the U.S. The Minnesota sculpture series, opening June 10, will include six trolls and three other sculptures, one of which is the artist’s largest troll to date, measuring 36 feet from head to toe.
Meet the Artist: Thomas Dambo
Thomas Dambo, a Danish artist renowned for his large-scale, recycled wood sculptures, is the creative genius behind Detriot Lake’s trolls. His work is driven by a passion for sustainability and a desire to inspire others to see the potential in discarded materials. Dambo’s trolls are crafted from reclaimed wood, often sourced from old fences, pallets, and scrap wood, giving new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
In 2011 he quit his job to become an artist and follow his mission to ‘Waste no more’. Dambo’s journey into the world of trolls began in 2014 when he started building these mythical creatures as part of his mission to create art from recycled materials. His trolls quickly gained international fame, with installations popping up in various countries, each one telling a unique story connected to its location.
Today, he spends his life showing the world that beautiful things can be made out of trash. He gives new life to discarded materials by turning them into large-scale artworks. His journey has led him to create artworks in 20 countries across five continents, including his giant Trolls, plastic works, birdhouses, and Happy Wall exhibitions. All these projects are realized using hundreds of tons of recycled materials, working in and with local communities, who are co-creators of the art that he makes because the mission he follows needs the involvement of everybody. Dambo also hosts talks as a speaker, such as TEDx talk, and sometimes hosts workshops to teach people how to reuse and upcycle.
This is my biggest and most ambitious exhibition of my career.
I am so happy to have been given so much trust in my artistic decisions and support from Project 412 and the Detroit Lakes community. I am very excited to show you what is being stirred up.
Thomas Dambo: International Recycle Artist
Project 412: A Community Effort to Coordinate Troll Magic
Project 412 emerged as a dynamic force, collaborating closely with Danish Recycle Artist Thomas Dambo to transform Detroit Lakes into a whimsical wonderland. Here’s how they made it happen:
Scouting Troll Locations: Project 412 played a crucial role in helping Dambo identify the perfect spots for his troll sculptures. These locations were carefully chosen to blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the area.
Harnessing Community Power: Hundreds of enthusiastic individuals stepped up to contribute their time and energy. They signed up for 472 work shifts, working tirelessly to bring the trolls to life. From hammering nails to shaping expressive faces, the community rallied together.
Global Troll Fans Unite: Detroit Lakes became a hub of creativity and camaraderie. Volunteers from as far away as Texas and Georgia joined the effort. Their passion for trolls transcended geographical boundaries.
Beyond the Trolls
Project 412’s impact extended beyond troll-building:
Meals and Housing: The community provided sustenance and shelter for the hardworking crew. Meals were cooked, and housing was offered—a testament to Detroit Lakes’ generosity.
Birdhouses Galore: In addition to the trolls, over 800 birdhouses were crafted and painted. These charming bird abodes accompanied the trolls, adding an extra touch of magic to the landscape.
The Troll Symphony: As the sun set on the final Thursday, the air buzzed with activity. Drills whirred, and wood met wood as crews completed the eight troll sites within just four weeks. Dambo’s vision had materialized—the largest U.S. installation of his trolls in one concentrated area.
Dambo’s Artistic Freedom: Thomas Dambo, the mastermind behind the trolls, reveled in his artistic freedom. His trolls—whether waggling tongues, lounging on grassy hillsides, peeking into cabins, or fishing from rocky ledges—reflected his whimsical spirit. “I’m the troll man,” he declared, emphasizing his creative autonomy.
In the end, Project 412’s dedication and Detroit Lakes’ unwavering support brought these mythical creatures to life. The town now boasts a magical tapestry of trolls, reminding us that art, community, and nature intertwine beautifully. *Note: The estimated 1,000 hours per troll—designing, planning, and building—only scratches the surface of the love poured into this project.
If you're lucky you may meet a troll!
Dunton Locks Park is really nice, though quite busy on the weekend. Thankfully there is overflow parking to the side which is right at the lake and has a nice walking path through the woods that leads to a small waterfall. Very pretty. And if you’re lucky you may meet a troll in the woods! Roberta P., Google Review, June 2024
Best Hotels Near We Fest in Detroit Lakes
The Lodge on Lake Detroit & The Spa Within
WE Fest is a massive country music festival that takes place annually in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. The host venue is a large plot known as Soo Pass Ranch that affords visitors from all over the opportunity to enjoy three full days of top-notch country music entertainment and a festive environmen. While many attendees prefer to camp on-site, hotels in Detroit Lakes are booked to capacity each year for folks that want to kick back with all the creature comforts of a modern hotel. If you’re looking for the best hotel near We Fest, start with the Detroit Lakes hotel consistently voted top hotel by TripAdvisor Guests. Best Western Premier The Lodge On Lake Detroit is a Lifestyle Lakefront Minnesota Hotel, offering a great location that is directly across Big Detroit Lake from The Lodge (6.5 mi). The Lodge is a natural to host a crowd of We Fest visitors, as it hosts live musical entertainment throughout the year in its Fireside Lobby.
Lodge Gallery
With our modern amenities and thoughtful design, we stand out among other lodging choices in Detroit Lakes, MN. For couples or family getaways, we offer a variety of rooms and suites with king, queen or two queen beds. Our daily free hot breakfast, free local calls, indoor heated pool and fitness center make the hotel a great place to recharge between enjoying Detroit Lakes attractions and activities. View hotel detail.
All rooms feature lakefront views, free Wi-Fi and wired internet, flat-screen TVs with extended channels. Rooms are equipped with mini-frige, microwaves, and coffee makers and are pet and smoke free. View accommodation detail.
Detroit Lakes Day Spa: The Spa Within at The Lodge offers an extensive menu of select spa treatment services, many of which are signature treatments exclusive to this spa. These revitalizing treatments include the use of warm and cold basalt stones for face and body, and a variety of facials and massage therapies that are sure to induce a state of deep relaxation.
Spa Within Gallery
Detroit Lakes Trolls FAQ
Where are the trolls located around Detroit Lakes, MN?
This GIANT art project includes six sites in the Detroit Lakes and Frazee area plus three “portals” cleverly hidden in Fargo, North Dakota, Detroit Lakes, and Perham, Minnesota. Part of the magic is that you read a riddle provided by the artist, Thomas Dambo, and follow the clues to find the Trolls, so we cannot share exact locations. We recommend beginning your journey at Alexa the Elixer in Detroit Lakes City Park and use the kiosk to access the rest of the journey.
Can the public touch and take pictures of the trolls?
Absolutely! Selfies are encouraged. Please remember to tag Project 412 and Thomas Dambo. The intention is for visitors to interact with the Trolls – hug, take photos, walk around them, but climbing is discouraged! We want to avoid injury and ensure the Trolls can be enjoyed for many years to come.
Are the trolls all publicly accessible to visitors with designated pathways to each?
All the Trolls live on publicly accessible land with various types of trails (some paved, some more rugged). Some Trolls are easier to reach than others, and we encourage the public to enjoy the search and experience the beauty of our 412 Lakes Area while you look for the Trolls.
What are the trolls made of?
Each Troll is made of recycled materials including a combination of structural wood, used pallets, and found decorations including tree branches, stones and other organic material. Much of the wood came from trees/lumber rescued from the Highway 34 road construction project plus pallets, scrap pieces, donated wood, and other materials from local businesses and individuals. Of special note, the head, hands, and feet of each troll were built by the Dambo team in Denmark and then the bodies of the Trolls were built by 100s of volunteers working side by side with the Dambo crew.
Are pets allowed?
Yes! Pets are welcome. They must be on a leash and please pick up after them.
How long will the trolls be available?
The Trolls were introduced to the public in mid-June of 2024. Because they are made of recycled materials the Trolls will eventually be reclaimed by the earth. However, we plan to maintain and care for these gentle GIANTS for many years to come! Please help us care for the Trolls! We are committed to keeping them alive as long as possible and as long as the public enjoys them
By LakeD|2024-07-11T18:34:06+00:00June 24th, 2024|Attractions Top Category Level, Local Attractions, , Summer Fun|
