Alexa - Troll of Detroit Lakes — Attraction in Detroit Lakes

Trolls of Dambo is a public art project in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, that imagines a whimsical forest of sentinels along the lakeside and park trails. Created by a local collective of sculptors, painters, and community volunteers, the project reinterprets Scandinavian troll lore through a Midwestern lens, blending folklore with environmental storytelling. Life-size and oversized figures—carved shapes, painted surfaces, and recycled-metal accents—appear to emerge from the edge of spruce and birch, seemingly guardians of the watershed and stories held by the community.

Each troll has a distinct personality and function. Some noses glow softly at night, guiding walkers along the path; others cradle stones that echo local legends about the lake’s origins. The sculptures are constructed from durable, reclaimed materials—pressure-treated wood, corrugated steel, river-polished stones—chosen for weather resistance and a tactile, craft-based feel that invites touch and close inspection. The project includes interpretive plaques and QR codes linking to oral histories, ecological notes, and seasonal folklore.

Trolls of Dambo has become a catalyst for neighborhood engagement—workshops on carving, painting, and rock-dry-walling; collaborative mural sessions; and annual festivals featuring live folklore storytelling, acoustic music, and local food vendors. By weaving art, memory, and habitat, the installation invites residents and visitors to look more closely at the lake’s ecology and the region’s...

What an incredible experience! The Alexa Troll in Detroit Lakes is the first stop on an unforgettable interactive scavenger hunt by world-renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo, best known for his whimsical, giant trolls made entirely from recycled materials. His original troll hunt began in Copenhagen, and how lucky we are that Detroit Lakes commissioned this talented artist to bring his magic here!

Alexa sets the stage beautifully, offering clues to find the other trolls in the area. Each troll’s necklace contains a piece of the puzzle that eventually leads to the grand prize — the Golden Rabbit. The entire hunt is thoughtfully designed for all ages and easily doable in a day, with all of the installations located within 10 miles of each other.

Dambo’s signature use of recycled wooden pallets and other salvaged materials is not only environmentally inspiring, but also creates an earthy, magical charm. It’s even more special knowing that local volunteers helped bring these trolls to life, making it a true community project.

Whether you’re a fan of public art, nature walks, or just looking for a unique family-friendly adventure, don’t miss this treasure hunt. Alexa isn’t just a sculpture — she’s the start...

We heard about the "Giant Trolls" in Detail Lakes, Minnesota thru a short TV article on local TV News and thought it might be fun to check out. We were NOT disappointed.... They were "awesome" to see up close and they are "Giants"...some over 30 feet tall. There are a total of six (6) Giant Trolls that you find using clues from Elixir's Book at Alexa, the first Troll located in Detroit Lakes Park. Then each Troll has a story and a clue to help you find the next troll. The final Troll, named "The Golden Rabbit " .!! We spent almost all day following the clues. I "HIGHLY RECOMMEND" this fun filled activity, especially for a family with children. It's been a long time since I have seen children so involved and excited to participate in a healthy outdoor Family oriented activity. Definitely a Five(5) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐...