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The Creator: Thomas Dambo from Denmark
The creator of these beautiful sculptures is Thomas Dambo from Denmark. The trolls are inspired by Scandinavian folklore, where they watch over the forest. They even remind me of the movie “The Lorax,” based on the children's book by Dr Seuss, which teaches kids to take care of the trees and be kind to our planet. Similarly, the trolls protect the forest and all the life within it. It’s such a magical tale that takes me back to my childhood days, when I would climb trees, and my Mama would tell me to be careful, as I might step on a fairy or a dwarf.
The Stand
The Stand
Thomas Dambo uses scrap wood and pallets to create sculptures that stand 15 to 20 feet tall, or 4 to 6 meters high. These "Guardians of Nature" or "Forest Protectors" are here to demonstrate the power of recycling—turning someone’s trash into treasure—and to encourage a greater appreciation for nature and the protection of our planet. We only have one Earth, and we and the future generations need to safeguard it. It’s such a powerful mission, and I admire his stance. I'm trying to share this with my little ones, as they are the future.
Yes, the wooden troll sculptures are free for the public to see.
How to Reach The Trolls
How Many Trolls Are in the Northwest
There are six trolls in total, with five located in the greater Seattle area of Washington and one in Portland, Oregon.
List of Thomas Dambo Trolls in Washington State
The Farthest One: A Long Drive from Washington
Ole Bolle Troll is one of six enchanting trolls found in the northwest. We're going to set up a date to visit this guy. It's going to be a drive, and I've never been to Oregon, so it's the perfect place—another state, another troll. I've also heard there are so many great hikes in Oregon. I can't wait to go soon!
Where to Find Thomas Dambo Trolls in the Northwest: Way of the Bird King
The Hunt Begins Here...
Hi Life
For lunch, check out Hi Life. They have huge, amazing poke bento boxes you can share between two people. We also ordered the salmon poke, which was good, but I realized I prefer my salmon unseasoned—just a personal preference. The creamy ramen was delicious, and my little one loved it! It's less than a 10-minute drive from Sakai Park and within walking distance of the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal.
2. Bruun Idun in West Seattle
How to Find Bruun Idun
Southworth Ferry Terminal to Fauntleroy
For the second troll-hunting adventure, we headed to West Seattle to see two trolls: Bruun Idun in Lincoln Park, and 30 minutes away, Frankie Feetsplinters, located just outside the National Nordic Museum in Ballard.
The easiest and fastest way to get there is by taking the ferry to Seattle, as we came from Kitsap County. We took the Southworth Ferry Terminal, with routes to Fauntleroy or Vashon Island. We paid 15.40 USD, which included the car, two adults, and little kids under 5 years old for a one-way trip.
We started late and took the ferry around 12 noon, with a travel time of 45 minutes, so we arrived at Lincoln Park around 1 p.m. A great thing about Lincoln Park is that it's close to the ferry terminal.
From Lincoln Park, we had to walk about 15–20 minutes inside the park to reach the troll. It’s a paved path, so you can even bring a stroller for the little kids. We didn’t do this, as we thought it would be closer like the troll “Pia the Peacekeeper”, so Saul had to carry our 1-year-old all the way to see the troll, which was exhausting as he is getting heavier now.
The walk started on a dirt path and was beautiful. The park is lined with tall trees, and the playground with the orca made it even better. After troll hunting, my little man played there and had so much fun with the other kids. He loved the seesaw and the swing!
Then we took the stairs down; there’s also a ramp for the stroller. The paved road started here, with the water within reach, lined with driftwood. It was such a beautiful and relaxing walk with the family. There was a crowd since we went on a weekend, but everyone had enough space to move around. The wind started to pick up halfway to the troll's location, and the breeze was really cold for the little ones. Bringing layers and a stroller would have kept the youngest one in the group warmer, but he made it with all smiles.
Bruun Idun was worth the walk! Bruun Idun was playing her flute, and the breeze created a humming sound that made it feel as if she were truly playing music for you. I wish Lincoln Park were closer to home so we could visit this place more often.
Clue: The Birdhouses!
I’ve also noticed some birdhouses. If you see these, then you’re on the right track to find the trolls. This one was in Lincoln Park, in the parking area. It turns out the birdhouses were Thomas Dambo’s first big recycled public sculptural project. He has even made 5,000 pieces, and the cute thing is, he’s still putting up birdhouses today.
3. Frankie Feetsplinters in Ballard
Until when will the Trolls be in Washington?
The Washington/Portland Trolls were set up in 2023 and are expected to remain until about 2026, but they might be around for up to 5 more years. It's already 2026, so I hope to see them all soon. Make sure to check them out before they disappear!
Enjoy the Troll Hunting Adventure
Some people do it in one day, but with our little ones, it’s not that much fun doing it that fast, as they want to explore and take it easy, so we’re taking our time. It’s nice to see the park where it’s situated and look around town afterwards for something to eat or find a hidden gem. Go at your own pace and enjoy the hunt; besides, the artist wants us to enjoy it and see the wonders of nature.
This is an amazing and unique adventure with your family: hunting for Seattle's magical trolls and discovering all six massive sculptures made from recycled wood located in the Northwest. We’re so lucky all five are here in Seattle! Let's see them all before they disappear!
The Troll Hunting Adventure requires a bit of driving, along with some ferry rides. The artist places the large wooden trolls in the parks, which is nice because you get to walk and see some trees, and there it is—the magical troll!
How Many Trolls Are in the Northwest
There are six trolls in total, with five located in the greater Seattle area of Washington and one in Portland, Oregon.
List of Thomas Dambo Trolls in Washington State
The Farthest One: A Long Drive from Washington
- Ole Bolle: Located in the Nordic Northwest, Portland, Oregon.
Ole Bolle Troll is one of six enchanting trolls found in the northwest. We're going to set up a date to visit this guy. It's going to be a drive, and I've never been to Oregon, so it's the perfect place—another state, another troll. I've also heard there are so many great hikes in Oregon. I can't wait to go soon!
Troll Hunting Etiquette
- Avoid climbing on the troll.
- Refrain from writing on or damaging the artwork.
- Please do not leave any litter behind.
- If following these rules is hard for you, it's better not to visit them!
Where to Find Thomas Dambo Trolls in the Northwest: Way of the Bird King
The Hunt Begins Here...
Meet Pia the Peacekeeper - she sits among the trees, and you can truly see her peace.
Troll Hunting in Seattle, Washington with Little Kids
1. Pia the Peacekeeper on Bainbridge Island
How to Find Pia the Peacekeeper
Pia the Peacekeeper was the first troll we saw when we visited Bainbridge Island during my little one’s birthday. We had already celebrated his birthday in Vancouver, Canada, so this was like a mini adventure birthday celebration for the family. You can either take the ferry or drive to Bainbridge Island. Since we’re coming from Kitsap County, driving to Bainbridge Island was the best option.
1. Pia the Peacekeeper on Bainbridge Island
How to Find Pia the Peacekeeper
- Sakai Park
- Address: 1560 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
- Free Parking
- Short walk from the parking lot
From the Sakai Park parking area, Pia is just a short walk away—there's no need to hike, as it’s literally near the parking area. I wish it were farther, but this sculpture is huge, so I can’t imagine transporting it any farther. This is by far my favorite troll! The size is just spectacular and makes you feel small. It’s also the first troll we hunted as a family, so it's even more memorable. The best part of these public artworks by Thomas Dambo is that they're free!
I saw people hanging on to Pia. We were tempted to do it, but I fear the wood might break, even though it looks sturdy. I would not recommend doing it to preserve the beauty of the troll and to be able to still share it with other families.
Address: 220 Olympic Dr SE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
For lunch, check out Hi Life. They have huge, amazing poke bento boxes you can share between two people. We also ordered the salmon poke, which was good, but I realized I prefer my salmon unseasoned—just a personal preference. The creamy ramen was delicious, and my little one loved it! It's less than a 10-minute drive from Sakai Park and within walking distance of the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal.
Meet Bruun Idun - she plays her flute, singing to the orcas, and asking them why they left, which explains the orca in the playground!
How to Find Bruun Idun
- Lincoln Park
- Address: 8011 Fauntleroy Wy SW, Seattle, WA 98136
- Free Parking
- Stroller-friendly
- 15-20 minutes walk to reach the troll
Southworth Ferry Terminal to Fauntleroy
For the second troll-hunting adventure, we headed to West Seattle to see two trolls: Bruun Idun in Lincoln Park, and 30 minutes away, Frankie Feetsplinters, located just outside the National Nordic Museum in Ballard.
The easiest and fastest way to get there is by taking the ferry to Seattle, as we came from Kitsap County. We took the Southworth Ferry Terminal, with routes to Fauntleroy or Vashon Island. We paid 15.40 USD, which included the car, two adults, and little kids under 5 years old for a one-way trip.
We started late and took the ferry around 12 noon, with a travel time of 45 minutes, so we arrived at Lincoln Park around 1 p.m. A great thing about Lincoln Park is that it's close to the ferry terminal.
From Lincoln Park, we had to walk about 15–20 minutes inside the park to reach the troll. It’s a paved path, so you can even bring a stroller for the little kids. We didn’t do this, as we thought it would be closer like the troll “Pia the Peacekeeper”, so Saul had to carry our 1-year-old all the way to see the troll, which was exhausting as he is getting heavier now.
Bruun Idun was worth the walk! Bruun Idun was playing her flute, and the breeze created a humming sound that made it feel as if she were truly playing music for you. I wish Lincoln Park were closer to home so we could visit this place more often.
I’ve also noticed some birdhouses. If you see these, then you’re on the right track to find the trolls. This one was in Lincoln Park, in the parking area. It turns out the birdhouses were Thomas Dambo’s first big recycled public sculptural project. He has even made 5,000 pieces, and the cute thing is, he’s still putting up birdhouses today.
Meet Frankie Feetsplinters - the youngest, most energetic, and stubborn troll—like a typical child, I guess.
3. Frankie Feetsplinters in Ballard
How to Find Frankie Feetsplinters
After seeing Bruun Idun, we did our Costco run, returning to reality for a few hours. It was great, as we got to embark on our mini-adventures while completing some errands, so we wouldn’t need to do them the next day—ahahaa. After going to Costco, we drove to visit Frankie Feetsplinters, which is conveniently located outside the National Nordic Museum in Ballard. It's only a 30-minute drive from Lincoln Park, where Bruun Idun is located.
There’s pay parking at the back of the museum if you’re planning to go inside. We didn’t have the time, as it was getting late and the little kids were tired. Fortunately, there’s a small parking spot right in front of the museum, so we parked there and walked our way to Frankie Feetsplinters. He stood in front of the museum like a guardian. To me, he looked like a child with mischievous eyes; one leg was stepping on a bench, making him appear even more like a toddler.
Outsider BBQ and Beer Garden
Address: 4010 NW Leary Wy, Seattle, WA 98107
If you’re looking for a place to eat, check out Outsider BBQ and Beer Garden, less than 10 minutes away from the museum, for some really good food. I love the ribs, especially with the mustard dip. Saul enjoyed the brisket, and our little one loved their play area. It’s nice that they care to entertain the kids while the grown-ups get some quality time to eat and relax. Note that there’s limited street parking. We were about to leave when we found one spot near the residential area.
4. Oscar the Bird King in Vashon Island
How to Find Oscar the Bird King
For our third troll hunting, we took the ferry to see Oscar the Bird King. There are 3 ferry services to reach Vashon Island, departing from: Tacoma (Point Defiance), West Seattle (Fauntleroy) and Port Orchard (Southworth). Always remember to check the ferry schedule! Please avoid relying solely on Google Maps—we did and ended up waiting almost an hour in line. The ferry attendant didn’t bother to inform us. Thankfully, I had snacks and a book for my little ones to pass the time.
We took the ferry from Southworth to Vashon and vice versa, paying a total of 33 USD for our vehicle, with two adults and two young children. To visit Oscar, it takes approximately 25 minutes from the ferry, while it's a mere 15-minute journey from downtown Vashon to see Oscar the Bird King.
Oscar the Bird King is the leader of the group, which is why he wears a crown with birdhouses on it. He watches over the water and the entire park, so don't even think about leaving any mess, or he's going to catch you! The details in this artwork are truly amazing! What I love about Oscar is his shell nails and how he seems to watch you from every corner, making you feel like you're part of something bigger.
The walk from the parking lot at Point Robinson Park to Oscar is very easy. It gets even better because there's another trail from Oscar that takes you to the lighthouse in just 3-5 minutes. We enjoyed seeing the water and a beautiful view of Mount Rainier overlooking the ocean. It's a short loop trail that's great for my little man’s small legs, and for Saul, carrying the baby wasn't too hard on our backs. This is definitely our favorite troll-hunting adventure!
This trip was totally unplanned—we didn’t research a thing! It turns out a lot of the stores are closed on Mondays and close as early as 4 in the afternoon. We were just at home when someone suddenly said, “I want to go troll hunting!” At first, we were unsure because it was already late, but we really wanted to go, so we decided to do it. It ended up being the best day ever, especially since it rained the next day. We missed out on seeing downtown and grabbing something to eat, but we did manage to catch the ferry just in time—we parked and got on as it was leaving! I really love spontaneous trips and the magical discoveries it brings!
How to Find Jakob Two Trees
Jacob Two Trees was the last troll we visited and the farthest from us since we lived in Kitsap County. We began our trip from the Southworth Ferry to the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal. The ferry ride took about 30 minutes and was relaxing and comfortable. We traveled at the end of March, marking the beginning of spring in Seattle, and the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. Fortunately, we found a great spot less than 10 minutes from the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal. Discover Less Crowded Cherry Blossom Spots in Seattle.
From the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal to the Issaquah Community Center, it takes about 30-40 minutes to drive. I didn’t enjoy the drive much because we were back in the big city with a five-lane freeway; it felt like being back in Los Angeles. Living in Kitsap County made me appreciate the simplicity of just having two lanes, fewer cars, and feeling safer. Anyway, drive carefully and stick to the speed limit.
From the Issaquah Community Center parking lot, take the Rainier Trail. Walk past the dog park, follow the stream, and after a few minutes, you'll see Jacob Two Trees on your right. The path is paved, so you can easily bring a stroller. We saw all five trolls, and Jacob was fun because he was standing up and holding two trees like he was playing hide and seek. He also wears a necklace with birdhouses, and his eyes seemed to be watching the road, keeping an eye on every hiker passing by, maybe even wishing them well. We didn't stay long because it started to rain harder, and we weren't prepared, so we had to skip other nearby trails too.
Orenji Sushi & Noodles
Address: 5625 221st Pl SE Unit #110-120, Issaquah, WA 98027
If you love Japanese food, you should try Orenji Sushi & Noodles, it's only 7 minutes away from the Issaquah Community Center. We ordered their house tonkotsu ramen - portion was a bit small, Orenji Dragon Roll, and Big Island Poke - no rice but still satisfying, and they were all delicious! The staff was very attentive and seemed to enjoy their work. The overall experience was amazing. I wish they were closer because the food is definitely worth a return visit.
- National Nordic Museum
- Address: 2655 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107
- Street and Pay Parking
- Right in front of the museum
After seeing Bruun Idun, we did our Costco run, returning to reality for a few hours. It was great, as we got to embark on our mini-adventures while completing some errands, so we wouldn’t need to do them the next day—ahahaa. After going to Costco, we drove to visit Frankie Feetsplinters, which is conveniently located outside the National Nordic Museum in Ballard. It's only a 30-minute drive from Lincoln Park, where Bruun Idun is located.
There’s pay parking at the back of the museum if you’re planning to go inside. We didn’t have the time, as it was getting late and the little kids were tired. Fortunately, there’s a small parking spot right in front of the museum, so we parked there and walked our way to Frankie Feetsplinters. He stood in front of the museum like a guardian. To me, he looked like a child with mischievous eyes; one leg was stepping on a bench, making him appear even more like a toddler.
Outsider BBQ and Beer Garden
Address: 4010 NW Leary Wy, Seattle, WA 98107
If you’re looking for a place to eat, check out Outsider BBQ and Beer Garden, less than 10 minutes away from the museum, for some really good food. I love the ribs, especially with the mustard dip. Saul enjoyed the brisket, and our little one loved their play area. It’s nice that they care to entertain the kids while the grown-ups get some quality time to eat and relax. Note that there’s limited street parking. We were about to leave when we found one spot near the residential area.
We just crossed paths with the legendary Oscar, the Bird King!
- Point Robinson Park
- Address: 3705 SW Point Robinson Rd, Vashon, WA 98070
- Free Parking
- Short walk from the parking lot
We took the ferry from Southworth to Vashon and vice versa, paying a total of 33 USD for our vehicle, with two adults and two young children. To visit Oscar, it takes approximately 25 minutes from the ferry, while it's a mere 15-minute journey from downtown Vashon to see Oscar the Bird King.
Oscar the Bird King is the leader of the group, which is why he wears a crown with birdhouses on it. He watches over the water and the entire park, so don't even think about leaving any mess, or he's going to catch you! The details in this artwork are truly amazing! What I love about Oscar is his shell nails and how he seems to watch you from every corner, making you feel like you're part of something bigger.
This trip was totally unplanned—we didn’t research a thing! It turns out a lot of the stores are closed on Mondays and close as early as 4 in the afternoon. We were just at home when someone suddenly said, “I want to go troll hunting!” At first, we were unsure because it was already late, but we really wanted to go, so we decided to do it. It ended up being the best day ever, especially since it rained the next day. We missed out on seeing downtown and grabbing something to eat, but we did manage to catch the ferry just in time—we parked and got on as it was leaving! I really love spontaneous trips and the magical discoveries it brings!
5. Jakob Two Trees
- Issaquah Community Center
- Address: 301 Rainier Blvd S, Issaquah, WA 98027
- Located along the Rainier Trail
- Free parking
- Stroller-friendly
From the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal to the Issaquah Community Center, it takes about 30-40 minutes to drive. I didn’t enjoy the drive much because we were back in the big city with a five-lane freeway; it felt like being back in Los Angeles. Living in Kitsap County made me appreciate the simplicity of just having two lanes, fewer cars, and feeling safer. Anyway, drive carefully and stick to the speed limit.
Orenji Sushi & Noodles
Address: 5625 221st Pl SE Unit #110-120, Issaquah, WA 98027
If you love Japanese food, you should try Orenji Sushi & Noodles, it's only 7 minutes away from the Issaquah Community Center. We ordered their house tonkotsu ramen - portion was a bit small, Orenji Dragon Roll, and Big Island Poke - no rice but still satisfying, and they were all delicious! The staff was very attentive and seemed to enjoy their work. The overall experience was amazing. I wish they were closer because the food is definitely worth a return visit.
The Washington/Portland Trolls were set up in 2023 and are expected to remain until about 2026, but they might be around for up to 5 more years. It's already 2026, so I hope to see them all soon. Make sure to check them out before they disappear!
Enjoy the Troll Hunting Adventure
Some people do it in one day, but with our little ones, it’s not that much fun doing it that fast, as they want to explore and take it easy, so we’re taking our time. It’s nice to see the park where it’s situated and look around town afterwards for something to eat or find a hidden gem. Go at your own pace and enjoy the hunt; besides, the artist wants us to enjoy it and see the wonders of nature.
What's next?
Hunting for trolls around Seattle has been a fun journey. Hopping on and off the ferry was exciting for the whole family, and my little ones loved the experience. It’s an exciting activity to do in Seattle. We’ve finally seen all five trolls in Washington State, and now we’re heading to Mount Rainier National Park, known as one of the oldest parks in the world!
This is an amazing and unique adventure with your family: hunting for Seattle's magical trolls and discovering all six massive sculptures made from recycled wood located in the Northwest. We’re so lucky all five are here in Seattle! Let's see them all before they disappear!
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Troll Hunting in Seattle - Let's catch them all before they disappear!
Explore Washington:
- Seattle: Discover the Vibrant Capital of Washington
- Leavenworth – The Bavarian Village That Brings a Touch of Europe Right Here in the U.S.
- Poulsbo - Discover Washington’s "Charming Tiny Slice of Norway"
- Port Orchard - Charming Waterfront: A Perfect Weekend Getaway from Seattle
- Cherry Blossoms - Discover Less Crowded Spots in Seattle
- Oscar the Bird King - Meet His Royal Majesty on Vashon Island
- Pia the Peacemaker - Explore Bainbridge Island, try Washington's first coffee roaster!
- Frankie Feetsplinters - Located at the National Nordic Museum in Ballard
- Bruun Idun: Found in Lincoln Park, West Seattle.
- Jakob Two Trees: Located along the Rainier Trail in Issaquah.
Do you want more adventure?
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