In summer 2023, the Pacific Northwest got a magical makeover thanks to Danish artist Thomas Dambo and his team of builders, dreamers, and volunteers. Now, two years later, the Northwest Trolls are still going strong — and families all over Washington are still hunting them down.
Installed in secret-but-not-so-secret spots across the region, these massive, gentle giants are made entirely from recycled materials and designed to blend with nature. Each one tells a story, sparks curiosity, and encourages kids and grown-ups alike to explore the outdoors with fresh eyes. This summer is the perfect time to revisit your favorites or find the ones you’ve missed.
Oscar the Bird King on Vashon Island. (Image: Allison Peterson)
Where to find the Seattle-area trolls
There are five trolls in the greater Seattle area — and one just down the road in Portland. Here’s your quick guide to the local troll lineup:
- Pia the Peacekeeper (Bainbridge Island): The first of the Northwest trolls. Find her at Sakai Park, one mile from the ferry terminal. She sits cross-legged, gently holding small human puppets — a.k.a., you.
- Bruun Idun (West Seattle): Tucked in Lincoln Park, this troll plays her flute to the orcas asking why they have all left the Puget Sound.
- Jakob Two Trees (Issaquah): Nestled in the woods of Cougar Mountain, Jakob holds onto two trees enjoying a peaceful moment.
- Oscar the Bird King (Vashon Island): Oscar was the last troll Dambo made on his 100 day road trip tour titled “Way of the Bird King.”
- Frankie Feetsplinter (Ballard): Located at the National Nordic Museum, Frankie is the youngest and “most irresponsible of all the Trolls.”.
Each sculpture will remain in place for at least three years, possibly up to 15 — so there’s still time to plan your adventure. Head to nwtrolls.org or trollmap.com to get maps, scavenger hunts, and clues.
Right outside the National Nordic Museum, is Frankie Feetsplinter. (Image: Allison Peterson)
Why trolls? Why here?
The project, titled Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King, was commissioned by the Scan Design Foundation, a nonprofit that supports cultural exchange between Denmark and the United States. Artist Thomas Dambo grew up on Nordic folklore and builds his trolls as a way to encourage sustainability, spark joy, and reconnect us with nature.
“From grandparents to toddlers, everybody has a different reaction,” said Scan Design Foundation president Fidelma McGinn. “But the ‘wow’ factor is independent of age.”
Each troll is handcrafted using reclaimed wood, old pallets, and foraged items like orchard clippings or salvaged rope. They’re built with the help of local volunteers — teachers, artists, and even yoga classmates.
Bruun Idun in West Seattle. (Image: Allison Peterson)
What’s next in the world of trolls?
While Seattleites continue to enjoy our six beloved trolls, Dambo and his team are expanding their reach across the country. His 50th troll in the U.S., Mama Rosa, now sits peacefully in Wisconsin. This August, he’s headed to Burning Man to install Rose Wonders, a new troll made specially for the Nevada desert.
But you don’t have to fly across the world to get inspired — the magic of the trolls is right here at home.
Tips for your troll hunt
- Bring water, snacks, and comfy shoes — some trolls require a short hike.
- Check nwtrolls.org for directions, parking info, and accessibility notes.
- Use the scavenger hunt app to engage kids in storytelling and discovery.
- Be respectful of the environment and local neighbors near troll sites.
Meet Pia the Peacekeeper, the gentle giant watching over Bainbridge Island. (Image:JiaYing Grygiel)
Trolls, fairy tales, and joy
Dambo compares his trolls to food: “Doesn’t last forever, but it makes people happy.”
So whether you’re setting off on your first troll adventure or planning a return visit with friends, these gentle giants are ready to welcome you — just as they have been for two magical years.
