Going on a Troll Hike Colorado Style

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Colorado Trolls: Spot the New Troll in Victor Colorado

Ready for some quirky, magical fun? Just a short drive from Cripple Creek in Victor, Colorado, a delightful surprise awaits – meet Rita the Rock Planter, Colorado's new troll sensation.

Rita Troll Colorado newest figure, with her branch hair, friendly eyes, and undeniable charm, is a standout among Colorado trolls with her branch hair, friendly eyes, and undeniable charm, is a standout figure among the whimsical trolls created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. She’s a must-see for anyone exploring this quirky corner of Colorado.

Crafted from 100% recycled wood during a week-long creation spree, Rita looms large in the company of Colorado trolls like Isaac, the famous troll Breckenridge, Colorado claims as their own.

Where are the trolls in Colorado?

It all began with Isak in Breckenridge in 2016, sparking a love for whimsical troll hikes. Now, the Cripple Creek troll, Rita the Rock Planter, brings even more charm to Colorado’s mountain towns.

Rita the Rock Planter the troll VIctor, Colorado

Rita the Rock Planter

New troll, Rita takes her place on hands and knees, surrounded by a bountiful pile of stones, as part of Dambo's visionary project, "Way of the Bird King." Rita is one of the 119 trolls that have found their way into hearts around the world.

Our journey led us to the charming town of Victor, Colorado, as soon as we heard whispers of the newest troll in Colorado. After an hour's drive from Colorado Springs, the final mile of the adventure unveils a dirt road that leads to a wide parking area, equipped with convenient porta potties. 

Park here for troll hike Colorado style

Rita the Troll Directions

From the parking lot, take the short trail between the old mine shaft and blacksmith shop. There is a sign marked “TRAIL” that takes you between the two areas. If you’re curious about history, take a gander at the signs sharing history of the area. 

Nestled at the trailhead of Little Grouse Mountain, Rita the troll Cripple Creek reigns supreme – an embodiment of Rachel Rooney's insight in "A Tale of Two Tails," that "Troll liked to do things in his own special way, and that was okay."

Tucked just a few miles south of Cripple Creek, the renowned gold rush town, Victor troll Rita enjoys a breathtaking vantage point. A short ¼ mile down Little Grouse Mountain trail, this new troll sculpture beckons visitors with a wide-open path and panoramic mountain vistas.

Rita's distinctive backside will surely catch your eye as she kneels gracefully, carefully gathering stones from her scenic field – a hardworking troll with a heart of gold.

Look up and around as you walk the short trail.

Colorful birdhouses line the trail, creating a fun guide to Rita. These birdhouses are part of Danish troll sculpture Dambo’s vision for the entire Colorado trolls project.

"They went searching for a troll, but what they found was a friend," as beautifully expressed by Kallie George in "The Lost Gift: A Christmas Story." Just like in the pages of that charming tale, our journey led us to the delightful Rita the Rock Planter.

RELATED LINK: New to hiking Colorado trails? This list of hiking tips are good reminders for beginners and experienced hikers before jumping on the trail. Make sure to get your FREE hiking checklist for what to pack for a day hike and avoid the ‘ole “Dang it, we forgot” moments on the trail.

Where is Victor, Colorado, the home of Rita the Troll in Colorado?

To find the newest Colorado troll sculpture, simply add “Rita the Rock Planter Victor Troll location” into your search bar.

Coming from Colorado Springs, follow CO-67S towards Cripple Creek. About five minutes beyond Cripple Creek, a sharp right turn onto CO Rd 87, a wide dirt road. Many choose to park at the foot of the hill, just off the paved road, and embark on a leisurely hike upwards.

*This will add incline and about 3/4 mile to an otherwise easy hike.

A well marked trail takes you on this troll hike colorado style.

Is it easy to find Rita, the newest troll in Colorado?

Perched along the Little Grouse Mountain trail, Rita the troll enjoys prime real estate. A 1.9-mile loop trail, the journey treats hikers to breathtaking mountain vistas and glimpses of historical mining sites. For an extra dose of magic, set your alarm clock early and breathe in the pure mountain air as the sun rises.

troll near breckenridge colorado

Isak, the Breckenridge Troll, one of two Colorado trolls

Trolls in Colorado | Isak and Rita

While new troll Rita's enchanting presence awaits you in Cripple Creek, Isak Heartstone offers a similarly delightful experience in Breckenridge.

Curious about how long the Breckenridge troll hike is?

Whether you're visiting Isak Heartstone or his newer companion Rita, the distance is exactly the same. Both wooden trolls are just a quarter-mile from the parking areas, making each hike a convenient half-mile round trip.

The quick, accessible nature of these hikes allows visitors to easily incorporate a magical forest encounter into you day, whether taking a break from skiing or enjoying a summer mountain getaway.

When you're wondering how long is the Breckenridge troll hike, remember: whichever troll you choose to visit, you're in for a short, enchanting journey through Colorado's beautiful woodland.

When skiing, snowshoeing or hiking in Breckenridge, make sure to hike along the 1/2 mile Trollstigen trail.

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Drinking in the fantastic views from Pancake Rocks, one of many hikes near Victor, Colorado.

Are there hikes near Victor, Colorado?

Absolutely! Within a 20-minute radius of Victor, you'll find yourself in Divide, Colorado, and Woodland Park, Colorado, opening doors to a multitude of year-round hiking opportunities.

Brace yourself for unforgettable experiences, from snowshoeing to Pancake Rocks, to cruising along Hwy 67, framed by stunning aspens – a true leaf-peeper's paradise during the fall.

And don't forget to visit Mueller State Park for a plethora of hikes catering to all skill levels.

While Rita the rock planter made an appearance in summer, fall is the perfect time to visit this troll in Colorado.

Take a scenic drive along this famous aspen viewing byway before stopping to take picturesque photos with Rita. It’s easy to spot Rita the troll location with her stunning backdrop of mountains and mining quarries.

Stay in this 19th-century home in historic Cripple Creek (just 5 miles from Victor). Full of history and unmatched character, this four-bedroom home provides an experience in the Colorado Front Range like no other.

Things to do in Victor, Colorado

ICE CASTLES in Cripple Creek *WINTER FUN

Ice Castles in Cripple Creek

You can meet Rita, Victor's friendly troll, anytime. But in January and February, add a trip to Cripple Creek for the cool Colorado Ice Castles.

Just minutes from Rita the Rock Planter, one of two trolls in Colorado, the Ice Castles in Cripple Creek offer 2-3 hours of sparkling winter fun every year. From December - March enjoy these winter castles!

Pair a visit with Rita and let this frosty fairytale light up your day—because trolls in Colorado and ice castles make winter pure magic!

For double the frosty fun, visit to Isak Heartstone, the first of the trolls in Colorado and enjoy Breckenridge’s fantastic ice sculpture week in January.

From towering trolls to intricate ice art, it’s a winter wonderland you’ll chisel into your memory forever!

RELATED READING: Exploring enchanting ice castles in Colorado

Paddle Boarding in Elevenmile Canyon: 

Glide across Eleven Mile Canyon's tranquil waters on a paddleboard. To get there, head southwest on CO-67S and turn left onto County Road 90. Rentals are available, and no permits are needed. Whether you're a pro or a newbie, the calm waters and amazing scenery promise an unforgettable adventure.

RELATED READING: Best Lakes for Paddleboarding in Colorado

Fishing at Eleven Mile Canyon and South Platte River: 

Fishing enthusiasts, listen up! Elevenmile Canyon and South Platte River are fishing hotspots. To reach them, head southwest on CO-67S and turn left onto County Road 90. Remember, fishing permits are required, so grab one before you cast your line. With abundant fish and stunning surroundings, it's a perfect day out.

Gold Panning in Victor, Colorado: 

Step into history with gold panning. Head to Victor's historic district; no permits needed. Local shops provide equipment and guidance. Dig through sand and gravel for gold flecks – who knows, you might strike it rich!

Hiking in Eleven Mile Canyon near Victor, Colorado

Hikes Near Victor, Colorado:

  • Little Grouse Mountain Trail: For this 1.9-mile loop, follow the well marked trail from Rita. An easy hike, you'll soak in epic mountain views.

  • Pancake Rocks Trail: Discover unique rock formations by hiking this trail. It's a bit of a hike– but the views are amazing.

    *For a shorter hike, tackle Horsethief Falls which is about a mile into this 7 mile hike.

  • Horsethief Falls Trail: Chase waterfalls by heading northeast on CO-67N and turning right onto County Road 62.

New to Colorado hiking? Find the right daypack with the click of button and never be left without a snack (priority!), water or a warm layer for that sudden any time of the year storm that blows in.

With a variety of outdoor activities like paddleboarding, fishing, gold panning, and hiking, Victor, Colorado offers an array of options for all ages.

Get ready for adventure and explore this charming mountain town.

RIta is an impressive Colorado troll sculpture

Rita the Rock Planter | Victor Troll

Our search for Colorado trolls brought us to Cripple Creek, where Rita the troll, the new troll, is ready to turn any hike into a fun adventure. Perfect for families and explorers of all hiking styles, she’s an easy stop with big personality.

Make Rita the troll a part of your Colorado road trip or plan a great afternoon of fun while heading south. Either way, this newest addition to the Colorado trolls is worth the visit!

With an ample booty, Rita the Rock Planter Victor trill location is pretty easy to spot. wink!

Where to stay near Victor

There are many sweet mountain homes to stay in while you visit Cripple Creek troll Rita and other nearby attractions. Enjoy your coffee on the front porch and unwind in this charming farmhouse nestled in the mountains with a view of Pikes Peak right from the front porch!

Recently featured in “Out There Colorado Magazine”, the home has a master bedroom plus two spacious lofts for your entire family.

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If you're new to hiking in Colorado, figuring out what to wear can be a challenge. The weather seems to change its mind every day! While the surprises can be exciting, getting caught in a sudden wind or rainstorm isn't fun at all. Here's what we recommend for hiking in Colorado.

We can't control the weather, but with the right gear, you can be prepared for whatever nature throws at you.


OUR GO-TO GEAR FOR COLORADO HIKING TRAILS IN 2024:

Seeing Rita Troll in VIctor CO is perfect any time of the year!

Best Places to Eat Near Victor Colorado

After visiting Rita the Rock Planter, Cripple Creek’s delightful troll, you might find yourself working up quite an appetite. Thankfully, there are plenty of great spots nearby to satisfy your cravings.

For a hearty meal, head to Maggie’s for some of the best chicken-fried steak in Colorado or grab some ribs at Roy’s Crew BBQ. If you’re in the mood for a burger and a craft beer, The Creek Restaurant and Saloon is the place to be. More local favorites include Kitchen District. Stop at Russ Place in Divide on your way there or back!

Sweet tooth? Don’t miss Dynamite Dick’s for delicious desserts that hit the spot. Gold Camp Bakery on 3rd street in Victor has to do for peanut butter pie and carrot cake. *Just make sure to call them ahead of time to ensure they’re open.

For a relaxing break, Wines of Colorado in Cascade offers a perfect spot to sip by the creek and unwind. And if you're on the go, stop by Gold Camp Cafe for a fresh cup of coffee and some tasty pastries to round out your day!

For more options, continue on to Colorado Springs and visit some of the best craft brews in the state.

Best Breweries in Colorado Springs Guide : We’ve mapped out the coolest spots by neighborhood, from places with live tunes to the best breweries in Colorado Springs that serve up delicious food, cozy outdoor spots, and a warm welcome for your furry friends.

Melodie Monberg