Pia the Peacekeeper I’ve been visiting Bainbridge Island a bit more often these days. It’s a nice place to hang out and there is a special someone there for me. We slept in Sunday morning and woke up hungry. A quick trip to Starbucks took care of the hunger. While we sipped our coffee, we thought about what we wanted to do for the day. I have been hearing about the Troll on Bainbridge for some time now and was pleased to hear that it was near enough that we could walk there. It was a bit chilly out, but the sky was clear, so off we walked. If we had chosen to drive, we could have easily found a parking spot, despite the large number of people there. The only downside to parking there was that recent rains had left things a little muddy. We were able to walk around the puddles and stay clean, but people’s dogs delighted in wading right in. There is a short walk to where Pia sits. I like a good walk, so this was too short for me, but it should be accessible for less active walkers. There is a short plaque with some information about the sculpture. The plaque includes a QR code so you can look up more information on your phone. The plaque asks you to not climb on Pia, but it is hard to keep kids off of it. We waited for a couple of young adventurers to get their picture taken (As evidence of their trespass?) before we took our turn in Pia’s arms. Another visitor was happy to take a few shots for us. While we hung out, we returned the favor by taking several shots for others. Apparently, you are supposed to act frightened by the troll, but Pia seems like the kind of troll that wouldn’t...
Read moreOh Pia. I do love you! Pia the Peacekeeper is a wonderful addition to our community. People should be aware that it’s quite a walk from the ferry, but it’s often done by hikers, families and bikers. You can do it! Pia is located within Sakai Park.
A beautiful and fun hike through Sakai park can be accessed at the corner of High School Rd and 305. It’s worth it, has some steeper incline midway.
There is very limited parking on Pia’s side of the park.
The location of Pia happens to be across from a delightful aquatic center. Epic slide and beach front wading for families on weekends here! Check their schedule online. You could really wear the kids out and they will be asleep for the ride home.
Remember to pack water and leave no trace in our beautiful parks and trails here. The island loves...
Read morePia the Peacekeeper is the Thomas Dambo troll statue located at Sakai Park on Bainbridge Island. The park is located across from a couple of schools. It was difficult to reach by foot as construction was happening on the road leading to the park. If you are driving, there is a parking lot located close to the statue on Madison Avenue North.
Not a fan of the park itself as it looks unkempt. Walkways were filled with grassy spots in random areas. I found the statue itself appealing as it has a zen look with the troll sitting legs crossed in a state of meditation. There are large trees in the back of the troll, which gives the statue a feel of encouraging viewers to get in touch with nature. While the park it resides in is not the prettiest, I do think the statue is worth a visit for the...
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