Tucked into the pine trees along the short Trollstigen Trail near Breckenridge, you'll find Isak Heartstone, a 15-foot wooden troll sculpted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Built in 2018 using reclaimed wood, Isak is a part of a global art series that combines whimsy with environmental awareness.
Isak’s story is one of town charm—and transformation. Originally placed near a residential area, he attracted so many visitors (some days up to 3,000!) that locals asked for a move. In 2019, Isak was carefully relocated closer to the Illinois Gulch trailhead and now rests along a dedicated accessible path called Trollstigen.
Finding Isak is part adventure, part scenic stroll: it’s a flat, 0.25-mile walk through the forest, with benches and troll foot signage guiding the way. For those wanting a little more trek, you can extend the route by connecting with nearby trails.
Isak is more than just a landmark—he's a symbol of creativity, conservation, and community spirit. Crafted entirely from recycled local wood (even featuring a heartstone gift from children), he encourages us to look at “trash” as treasure and reminds us how art can bridge people and the outdoors.
· Getting There: Take the free Breck bus, walk, or bike. Don’t try to park at the trailhead—parking is limited and restricted.
· Best Time to Visit: Early morning or after 5 PM offers quieter moments with Isak.
· Please Respect Isak: Stay on the trail, pack out your trash, and don’t climb on the sculpture—it helps keep Isak standing for years to come.
Exploring Isak Heartstone is a magical way to combine art, nature, and family-friendly adventure. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best treasures are moments shared under the trees.
