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Isak Heartstone: The Breckenridge Troll

Discover Isak Heartstone, the whimsical wooden troll of Breckenridge, a unique art installation promoting recycling and environmental awareness.

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Isak Heartstone is a 15-foot-tall wooden troll sculpture created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo using recycled materials. Located on the Trollstigen Trail near the Stephen C. West Ice Arena, Isak has become a beloved and whimsical attraction in Breckenridge, Colorado.

A brief summary to Isak Heartstone

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or early evening to avoid crowds.
  • Take the free Breckenridge bus to the Ice Rink stop for easy access to the trailhead.
  • Parking at the trailhead is limited; consider parking in town and walking or taking the shuttle.
  • The trail is not maintained in the winter, so be prepared for icy or snowy conditions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Breckenridge Welcome Center (203 S. Main St), walk southeast on Main Street. Turn left onto Boreas Pass Road and continue for about 0.25 miles. The Stephen C. West Ice Arena will be on your right. The Trollstigen Trailhead is located in the southeast corner of the Ice Arena parking lot. Follow the signs for the Trollstigen Trail to reach Isak Heartstone. Walking from downtown Breckenridge takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Breckenridge Station, take the free Breck Free Ride bus. Hop on the Gray Route of the Breck Free Ride shuttle service, which provides a direct and complimentary ride to the Trollstigen Trailhead. Get off the shuttle at the Ice Rink stop. From the Ice Rink stop, it is a short walk to the trailhead. The bus ride takes approximately 5 minutes.

  • Parking

    Drive to the Stephen C. West Ice Arena (189 Boreas Pass Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424). Limited free parking spaces are available at the trailhead, marked with a “Troll” sign. These spots fill up quickly. If the free parking is full, park at the South Gondola Lot (0.50 cents per hour) and the F Lot (3 dollars per hour and free after 3pm). From there, hop on the free shuttle to the trail.

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Discover more about Isak Heartstone

Nestled in the forests of Breckenridge, Colorado, Isak Heartstone, also known as the Breckenridge Troll, is a captivating sculpture crafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Standing at 15 feet tall, this gentle giant is made entirely from reclaimed wood, reflecting Dambo's commitment to recycling and environmental awareness. Originally created for the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts in 2018, Isak quickly gained popularity, drawing thousands of visitors daily. Due to the large crowds and complaints from local residents, Isak was moved to his current location on the Trollstigen Trail in 2019. The trail itself is a short, easy walk, making the troll accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities. Isak's story adds to his charm. Legend says that a group of children gifted him a heart-shaped stone, which Dambo incorporated into the sculpture, hence the name Heartstone. Today, Isak welcomes visitors year-round, offering a unique blend of art and nature. The trail is open 24/7, allowing visitors to experience the troll in every season. While the trail is well-maintained in the warmer months, it is not maintained during winter, so caution is advised. Visiting Isak Heartstone is more than just a photo opportunity; it's an invitation to appreciate art, nature, and the importance of sustainability. As you stroll along the Trollstigen Trail, you'll find yourself immersed in the beauty of the White River National Forest, with Isak waiting to greet you with his friendly demeanor.

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