Isak Heartstone — Attraction in Breckenridge

Isak Heartstone Troll, Breckenridge, Colorado

Tucked into the quiet forest behind the ice arena in Breckenridge is a gentle giant named Isak Heartstone, and finding him felt like stepping into a fairytale. We came early in the morning, hoping to beat the crowds and experience the sculpture in peace. The short trail that winds through the trees was quiet, and as we neared the end, only one other person with her dog crossed our path. She asked us to take her photo with Isak, and we were happy to do so. It made us realize how many people come not just to see the troll, but to connect with him, to stand beside him, and capture the memory.

Isak was created by artist Thomas Dambo, and he rests casually among the trees. His large wooden form is built entirely from recycled pallet wood, a beautiful example of sustainability merged with art. He’s not standing tall or making any grand gestures. Instead, he sits calmly on a small rise in the forest, his right hand clutching a tree trunk for balance as he gazes out at those who find him. There’s something in his expression that feels present, attentive, almost wise. It’s as if he listens.

The entire experience was magical. The path, though short, feels like a pilgrimage of sorts. The forest opens just enough to frame Isak perfectly, giving you that first breathtaking view that stops you in your tracks. It's not just a tourist attraction. It's a work of art that invites you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the balance of creativity and nature.

We’ve made it a goal to visit as many of Thomas Dambo’s trolls as we can during our RV travels across the United States, and Isak was our second stop on this whimsical quest. He did not disappoint. Highly recommend making time for this unique experience if you’re in the Breckenridge area.

Thomas Corrao Stray Compass Life

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Just a quick walk from downtown Breckenridge, you'll find Isak Hearthstone, the Breckenridge troll. Once you get to the Ice Arena parking lot (off Boreas Pass Road), walk to the southeast corner of the lot. There you'll see a sign for the Illinois Creek Trailhead which will take you to Isak.

The "hike" is about 400 ft and is a flat surface with the slightest incline. There were some icy parts since we visited in January but the trail is pretty wide so you can walk around any slippery areas.

Isak is quite a sight! And is a great photo op for any group. Just remember to be kind and don't climb!

You can continue down the trail for more hiking or turn around to get back to the parking lot. There are two paths between Isak and the parking lots so you don't have to worry about crossing paths with oncoming...

The trail and the troll are absolutely great. My issue is with the town of Breckenridge and their terrible website that said there is no parking near the trail head. This is a blatant lie. There is a late parking lot right at the trail head. Not that the wall from downtown was difficult, it's not. But there is absolutely a parking lot at the trail head.

From the GoBreck website: NOTE – There is no Troll parking near Isak Heartstone. To ensure a successful Troll experience, we strongly encourage walking, biking, or taking public transportation (details below).

This is absolutely false. There is public parking at the trail head. It's a bit confusing as there are aix of signs that say free public parking and there are signs that say to pay...but the parking...