6 Minnesota Trolls You Can Actually Find This Weekend

Think again. There’s a giant treasure hunt waiting for you in Minnesota, and it’s completely free. Get ready to go on a troll hunt and create some stories your kids will tell for years.

Key Takeaways

• Find five giant trolls made from recycled materials near Detroit Lakes, MN.
• This family-friendly adventure is free, perfect for budget-conscious explorers.
• Accessibility varies, with some trolls on paved paths and others on rustic trails.

Start Your Quest: Alexa’s Elixir in Detroit Lakes

Your epic troll hunt begins in Detroit Lakes City Park. Here you’ll find Alexa, a giant troll mixing a special potion. She’s the keeper of the story, with a book of clues to guide your adventure.

This is the perfect starting point for families. Alexa is easy to find and right in the main park. She is the most accessible of all the trolls, making it a great stop for little legs or anyone with mobility concerns.

The artist, Thomas Dambo, designed this as an interactive fairy tale. You’re not just looking at art; you’re stepping into a story. Let the kids get up close and check out the details—it’s all part of the fun.

From here, the rest of your adventure unfolds. Now, let’s go find a troll with a silly grin.

Hike to a Reclining Giant: Jacob Everear

Your journey now takes you to Frazee. Here, Jacob Everear is relaxing by the Otter Tail River. He’s located in the beautiful Wannigan Regional Park.

This one requires a bit more of a walk. It’s about a 0.4-mile hike to find him. The trail isn’t paved, so wear sturdy shoes. The park is a showcase of Minnesota’s diverse biomes, as noted on the park’s official website.

This troll feels like a true discovery. You’ll cross a charming covered bridge to get there. It’s a perfect example of getting off the beaten path. This is the kind of authentic experience you just can’t buy.

Ready for the biggest challenge? Let’s go find the tallest troll of them all.

Meet the Big Boss: Long Leif at Detroit Mountain

Prepare to be amazed. At Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, you’ll find Long Leif. He is the tallest troll Thomas Dambo has ever built, standing at an incredible 36 feet.

Finding him is part of the adventure. He’s located on a wooded trail about a third of a mile from the parking area. The trail has some slight hills but is manageable for most families. Seeing this giant emerge from the trees is a truly memorable moment.

Detroit Mountain is a year-round destination. While you’re there, check out their other trails. It’s a hub of outdoor activity that shows you don’t need to spend a fortune to have fun.

After meeting the king, let’s find a troll who prefers to go barefoot.

Discover a Forest Friend: Barefoot Frida

Tucked away on a wooded trail, you’ll find Barefoot Frida. This troll is all about connecting with nature. She sits peacefully, inviting you to do the same.

This trail is more rustic. It’s a great chance to immerse the family in the woods. Make sure you have good footwear. This is a perfect opportunity to teach kids about respecting nature while having fun.

The entire troll project was brought to life by Project 412, a local nonprofit. It was a massive community effort involving hundreds of volunteers. It’s a testament to what people can do when they come together.

Now that you’ve met the main trolls, there’s one more secret to uncover.

The Secret of the Golden Rabbit

The final piece of the puzzle isn’t a troll at all. It’s a mischievous Golden Rabbit. This is the villain of the fairy tale, and finding him is the ultimate goal.

His location is a secret. You have to solve the clues from the other trolls to find him. This turns your day trip into a real-life treasure hunt. Don’t cheat by looking it up online—the fun is in the discovery!

This entire adventure is a fantastic way to explore the region. The Explore Minnesota tourism board highlights the trolls as a major attraction. It’s proof that the best adventures are often right in your own backyard.

Ronny Funny Face at Dunton Locks County Park

The final troll in the Northwest Minnesota treasure hunt is Ronny Funny Face, located at Dunton Locks County Park near Detroit Lakes. This whimsical troll guards one of the secret letters needed to unscramble the code word and locate the legendary Golden Rabbit.

Ronny is easily accessible via a short, entirely paved path that winds through the forest to his hidden location. His playful expression and colorful design make him a favorite among troll hunters of all ages.

How I Built This List

I didn’t just pull these spots out of a hat. This list is based on the incredible public art installation by Thomas Dambo. I focused on the main trolls that are part of the official hunt organized by Visit Detroit Lakes.

Each location was chosen to give you a full tour of the project, from the easily accessible to the more adventurous finds. My goal is to give you a practical, no-fluff guide to get you and your family out the door and on an adventure you won’t forget.

Now Get Out There

You don’t need a plane ticket to find adventure. You just need a full tank of gas and a willingness to explore. The Minnesota Trolls are proof that incredible memories are waiting just down the road. So pack the snacks, load up the car, and go make it happen.