We spent the weekend wandering Dorothea Dix Park and, honestly, the Trolls made the whole hike feel like a treasure hunt. They’re massive—towering over the pines and meadows—but still “hidden” just enough that you round a bend and boom, there’s a giant grin peeking through the trees. It pulls you into new corners of the park you might otherwise miss, and turns a simple walk into a playful, choose-your-own-path loop.
What makes the Trolls special
- Built from reclaimed materials. The sculptures are crafted from recycled wood—pallets, planks, and other salvaged pieces—so each one feels hand-hewn and eco-friendly, with textures that show off every nail hole and knot.
- Personality for days. Each troll has its own vibe, from watchful to whimsical, and the scale invites you to step back… and then step closer for all the quirky details.
Finding them
Part of the fun is the search. The trolls are sprinkled around the open lawns and wooded edges, so you’ll wander through fields, along tree lines, and across gentle hills as you go. Plan for an easy loop; you can spot several within a comfortable 45–90-minute stroll depending on how often you stop for photos (we stopped a lot). If you need a map to streamline your search you can find one here.
Quick tips
- Start at the parking area near Flowers Field (Blair Drive/Umstead Drive intersection) and follow park paths toward the meadows; keep an eye out for wayfinding signs and clusters of folks pointing excitedly into the trees.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Paths are mostly flat with a mix of paved and natural surfaces.
- Bring water and a camera. The trolls are photogenic from every angle, and the park’s skyline views don’t hurt either.
About Dorothea Dix Park
Dix is Raleigh’s big backyard—wide-open fields, shady groves, and long sightlines toward downtown. It’s perfect for aimless exploring: one moment you’re in a quiet stand of trees, the next you’re stepping into a sunlit lawn with a giant troll waving you over. Whether you’re there for art, a picnic, or just a walk, the park gives you space to breathe—and the trolls give you a playful reason to keep going.
