If you’re planning to visit the Thomas Dambo Trolls in Clinton, Iowa, you’re in for a magical adventure! We first visited Clinton with one mission: find the trolls. As longtime Thomas Dambo fans, we couldn’t wait to add three more trolls (plus a secret surprise!) to our growing list. What we didn’t expect was to fall in love with the town itself.

Hidden throughout Clinton are three giant wooden trolls known as the Tree Thieves, each handcrafted by world-renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo using recycled wood and other reclaimed materials. But the adventure doesn’t end there. If you pay close attention to the clues hidden on each troll’s necklace, you’ll unlock the location of a secret fourth installation tucked away in one of Clinton’s parks.

In this guide, we’re sharing exactly where to find all three Thomas Dambo trolls (and the secret one!), where to park, what to expect at each stop, and a few nearby places that made us wish we’d planned an even longer stay.

Looking for even more ideas? Be sure to read our guide to the best things to do in Clinton, Iowa.

What are Thomas Dambo’s Trolls?

Danish artist Thomas Dambo is the creative genius behind these incredible larger-than-life troll sculptures, crafted entirely from recycled wood and other reclaimed materials. His mission is simple: turn trash into magical works of art that inspire people to reconnect with nature.

We first fell in love with Thomas Dambo’s trolls when they first arrived at Morton Arboretum – what an unforgettable experience! Since then, we’ve made it a mission to find as many as we can. Before visiting the Thomas Dambo Trolls in Clinton, Iowa, we’d already tracked down Benny the Beard Fisher in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Mama Rosa in Wauwatosa, the five Detroit Lakes trolls (and the Golden Rabbit!), and three more in Kentucky. Clinton brought our troll count to 13 plus the secret Enchanted Branches installation!

Searching for the Thomas Dambo Trolls in Clinton, Iowa – Our Experience

The three Tree Thieves are scattered throughout Clinton, so you’ll want to drive between each location. Every troll has its own personality, unique setting, and story, making the hunt just as much fun as finding them.

Fun Fact: Helmut, Marvin, and Warren are named after three brothers who once lived and farmed in the Clinton area.

Warren at the Old Train Depot

I almost thought we were in the wrong place when we pulled up to the old white train depot across from the post office. There are a few “No Trespassing“ signs, but don’t worry…you’re exactly where you need to be!

As we got closer, I noticed branches and twigs scattered everywhere. We were exactly where we needed to be! We followed the winding maze through the sticks until we finally discovered Warren hidden inside.

The whole family agrees – finding Warren was one of our favorite troll experiences ever. I loved how nature seems to have completely reclaimed the old depot. Then suddenly, Warren appears, nearly filling the entire room. It felt like we’d stumbled upon his secret hiding place.

We were also greeted by a friendly volunteer who shared fun facts about the trolls and even offered to take our family photo, which was such a nice touch.

Location: Old Train Depot, 60 4th Ave S, Clinton, IA

Parking: Free street parking and public lots are available nearby.

Difficulty: Easy. It’s just a short walk from the parking area, with a few steps up to the entrance.

While You’re Here:

• Grab a pizza or ice cream at Happy Joe’s Pizza, located just steps from the old train depot.

Marvin at Bickelhaupt Arboretum

Marvin is peacefully napping beneath a tree at Bickelhaupt Arboretum. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and mature trees, this was one of the most peaceful troll stops during our visit to Clinton.

Location: Bickelhaupt Arboretum, Clinton, IA

Parking: Free parking is available at the arboretum.

Difficulty: Easy. Out of the three Clinton trolls, Marvin may take the most walking to reach. He’s easy to spot from the arboretum, especially from the balcony, but, of course, you should take the short walk down for a closer look.

Start near the south end of the parking lot, walk around the building, cross the bridge, and you’ll find Marvin tucked beneath the trees. The path includes a gentle slope and a short climb back up, but it only took us a few minutes and was well worth it.

 

While You’re Here:

• Explore Bickelhaupt Arboretum, one of Clinton’s hidden gems. Wander the peaceful grounds and take in the beautiful gardens.

Helmut by Sawmill Museum

Helmut is one of my favorite trolls! I love that he’s actually holding a tree in a bucket. In reality, they built around a tree. According to the story, Helmut is busy moving trees near the Mississippi River.  Be sure to walk around him and check out his spotted back, which gives him a completely different look depending on your angle.

Location: Near the Sawmill Museum, 2426 Harding Street, Clinton, IA

Parking: We had no trouble finding street parking nearby.

Difficulty: Easy. This was probably the easiest troll for us to locate. He can also be seen from the comfort of your car.

While You’re Here:

• Visit the Sawmill Museum. We were surprised by how kid-friendly and interactive it was. My kids loved the water play area, recreated lumberjack buildings, and hands-on exhibits.

• Stop by the Sawmill Museum’s gift shop for handmade wooden items. We picked up a small wooden car made from the same wood as the trolls and plan to turn it into a Christmas ornament. The staff mentioned that they are in the process of getting more Dambo troll souvenirs.

• There are a few picnic tables nearby, making it a nice spot to sit and enjoy a snack or lunch with Helmut.
• Walk up the nearby stairs to Elijah Buell Terrace for a beautiful view of the Mississippi River. It also offers one of the best vantage points of Helmut and features a charming little fairy garden.

• Don’t miss the colorful murals at the Paint It Back building just a few blocks away. As we explored downtown Clinton, we kept spotting more artwork and murals scattered throughout the area.

Want to keep the mystery alive? Stop reading now! The next section reveals the location of Clinton’s secret Dambo installation, The Enchanted Branches.

SECRET: The Enchanted Branches

Think you’ve found all the trolls? Not quite!

Thomas Dambo surprised Clinton with a fourth, hidden installation called The Enchanted Branches. Unlike the three giant trolls, this secret sculpture is tucked away along a wooded trail in Eagle Point Park and can only be found by following the clues hidden on each of the three trolls’ necklaces.

Location: Eagle Point Park, Clinton, IA

Parking: Once you enter Eagle Point Park, continue driving until you reach the parking lot near Fred D. Grumpstrup Memorial Grove.

Difficulty: Moderate. The trail includes about a 50-yard hike through the woods with a few gentle inclines. Depending on recent weather, it can be muddy and slippery, so wear sturdy shoes.

While You’re Here:

• Don’t miss Eagle Point Castle for beautiful views overlooking the Mississippi River.
• Reward yourself with ice cream from Northend Sweets & Treats after completing your troll hunt!

Tips for Your Troll Hunt in Clinton Iowa

• Stay and explore more of Clinton! We originally came for the trolls but quickly discovered this river town has so much more to offer. From museums and murals to riverfront views, local coffee shops, and Prospect League baseball, we found plenty to keep us busy. Read more in our guide to the best things to do in Clinton Iowa.
• Check the trolls’ necklaces for clues to the secret installation, The Enchanted Branches.
• It’s easiest to drive between the trolls, as they’re located in different parts of town.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to search for The Enchanted Branches at Eagle Point Park. The trail can be muddy and a little slippery depending on recent weather.
• The city has fully embraced the trolls, and it was so much fun seeing troll-themed treats, drinks, souvenirs, and decorations throughout the community. Support the local businesses that have gone all out with troll goodies!
  • Deanna’s Java North is currently drive-thru only and offers fun troll-themed dirty sodas and drinks. They even come with a little troll!

• • Sweetheart Bakery offers troll cookies that was every bit as delicious!

• Don’t miss the troll souvenirs at the Sawmill Museum. We picked up a small wooden car made from the same wood as the trolls and plan to turn it into a Christmas ornament.

• Keep your eyes peeled for murals around town. We found colorful wings, public art, and plenty of fun photo opportunities while exploring Clinton.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Thomas Dambo Trolls in Clinton, Iowa

How many Thomas Dambo trolls are in Clinton, Iowa?

There are three giant troll sculptures, known as the Tree Thieves, located throughout Clinton. If you solve the clues hidden on each troll’s necklace, you’ll also discover a secret fourth installation called The Enchanted Branches hidden inside Eagle Point Park.

Is it free to visit the Thomas Dambo trolls in Clinton?

Yes! All of the Thomas Dambo trolls in Clinton, Iowa are free to visit. Parking is also free at each location, making this a fun and budget-friendly family adventure.

How long does it take to find all of the trolls?

If you’re only visiting the trolls, plan on about 2–3 hours. We recommend setting aside at least half a day (better if you had a full day) so you have time to explore Clinton’s museums, murals, coffee shops, and beautiful Mississippi River views along the way.

What order should I visit the Thomas Dambo trolls in Clinton, Iowa?

To make the most of your visit, we recommend exploring the trolls in this order:

1. Warren at the Old Train Depot
2. Helmut near the Sawmill Museum
3. Marvin at Bickelhaupt Arboretum
4. The Enchanted Branches in Eagle Point Park

We suggest starting with Warren, since he’s located inside the historic Old Train Depot. Because the depot is volunteer staffed and the hours aren’t always set in stone, it’s a good idea to visit Warren earlier in the day whenever possible.

After Warren, head over to nearby Helmut and explore the Sawmill Museum, murals, and Mississippi River overlooks before continuing to Marvin at Bickelhaupt Arboretum. Finish your adventure at Eagle Point Park in search of The Enchanted Branches. By saving the secret installation for last, you’ll have collected all the clues from the trolls’ necklaces.

Do you have to hike to see the trolls?

The three main trolls are all easy to reach with short walks from nearby parking areas. The only hike is to The Enchanted Branches, the secret installation in Eagle Point Park. The wooded trail is relatively short but can be muddy after rain, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.

Where do you park for the Thomas Dambo trolls in Clinton?

Each troll has convenient free parking nearby. Warren has street parking near the old train depot, Marvin has free parking at Bickelhaupt Arboretum, Helmut is located next to the Sawmill Museum, and visitors searching for The Enchanted Branches should park near the Fred D. Grumpstrup Memorial Grove in Eagle Point Park.

Who is Thomas Dambo?

Thomas Dambo is a Danish artist known around the world for creating giant troll sculptures from reclaimed wood and recycled materials. His artwork encourages visitors to explore nature while showing how everyday materials can be transformed into something magical.

Are the Clinton trolls good for kids?

Absolutely! Our kids loved searching for each troll, and every location felt like a little treasure hunt. The secret clues, interactive museums, nearby parks, and troll-themed treats around town make this an especially fun family road trip destination.

What else is there to do in Clinton, Iowa?

Don’t stop with the trolls! During our visit we explored colorful murals, the interactive Sawmill Museum, beautiful Mississippi River overlooks, local coffee shops, Prospect League baseball, and some delicious local restaurants. You can read all of our favorites in our guide to the best things to do in Clinton, Iowa.