Troll Hunting at the North Carolina Arboretum: Thomas Dambo’s “Trolls: A Field Study” in Asheville

Discovering the Trolls at the North Carolina Arboretum

My husband and I recently embarked on a delightful adventure to the enchanting North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, drawn by the captivating exhibit, “Trolls: A Field Study,” created by the talented artist Thomas Dambo.

Troll Hunting with a Map: What to Expect on the Trail

As soon as we arrived, we eagerly grabbed a troll map, a treasure guide for our whimsical “Troll Hunting” expedition. Armed with this map, we set off to discover all twelve hidden trolls scattered throughout the lush gardens — a unique experience among outdoor activities in North Carolina. The weather was simply perfect with sunshine filtering through the trees and a gentle breeze that added to the magical atmosphere, drawing many fellow enthusiasts to join us in our quest. Each encounter with a troll was thrilling; we couldn’t help but feel excitement as we read their quirky names, learned about their humorous research on human behavior, and marveled at their intricate craftsmanship. Of course, snapping a picture with each troll was a must! Being a weekend, the place was quite lively, and there were lines at each troll. Thankfully, the atmosphere remained friendly and considerate, with most visitors patiently waiting their turn.

Meet the “Baby Trolls”: Art, Materials, and Storytelling

These towering trolls, reaching heights of seven to nine feet, are affectionately dubbed “Baby Trolls” by the artist. Each figure is a remarkable creation, constructed from twisted fallen branches, weathered wooden pallets, and slender twigs. Their individuality shines through, reflecting their respective human studies; one troll playfully attempts to catch tiny humans, while another stands captivated, sketching us as we pose for photos. Don’t forget to take a moment to read the informative signs that reveal the trolls’ amusing curiosities about human behavior, and keep an eye out for their names cleverly etched on stones at ground level.

A Family-Friendly Adventure in Asheville

Exploring the trail with my husband was a truly enjoyable experience, filled with laughter and wonder, but I can hardly wait to return with my children for one of our favorite family-friendly things to do in Asheville. The path is perfectly accessible for all ages, making it a fantastic family outing.

Planning Your Visit to the NC Arboretum Troll Exhibit

If the idea of going Troll Hunting intrigues you, you’ll be pleased to know this whimsical exhibit will remain open until February 17, 2026. Admission to the arboretum is free, though there is a charge for parking. To avoid the crowds, I highly recommend arriving early in the day, as the parking lot tends to fill up quickly.

Where Else to Find Thomas Dambo Trolls in North Carolina

The NC Arboretum is just one of the magical places where Dambo’s delightful trolls can be discovered! Here are a few other local spots where you can embark on your own Troll Hunting adventure:

– Dix Park, Raleigh, NC

– High Point, NC

– River City District, NC

For those adventurous souls eager to track down each troll, here is the full Troll Map to guide your exploration: https://www.thomasdambo.com/trollmap.

About the Artist: Thomas Dambo

Born in Odense, Denmark, in 1979, artist Thomas Dambo brings his vibrant imagination to life by creating art that invites people to explore the beauty of nature while showcasing the magic of recycling. Before embarking on the journey of crafting his larger-than-life troll sculptures, Thomas lived a richly diverse life that allowed his creativity to flourish in music, street art, and scenic design. After completing his master’s degree in interactive design from Kolding Design School in Denmark, he dedicated himself to transforming recycled materials into stunning art installations, paving the way for his current whimsical creations. Today, Thomas continues to reside and create in Copenhagen, drawing inspiration from the world around him.