Detroit Lakes, Minnesota (and Frazee and Perham)

The goal of this trip: Find the Golden Rabbit.

What is the Golden Rabbit? It is an art installation created and built by Thomas Dambo and his many volunteers. Made of plastic, Dambo’s message, as always, points toward the idea that caring for our world is more important than getting all the shiny, new products available at the touch of a button.

Today, our story starts with Project 412. This website explains the story of Alexa’s Elixir, the additional trolls (and three portals) and begins with the town of Detroit Lakes.

Many of you know Minnesota loves their lakes. In the Detroit Lakes area 412 lakes lie within a 25 mile radius (thus the name of their website). Additionally, the Detroit Lakes area has big and little Detroit Lake (One of the residents explained the two lakes are really one. A sandbar separates them.).

I felt as though I needed to do some research before heading out on my next solo adventure. Before I traveled anywhere, I downloaded the pdf of the story. I needed something in my hand to help me find my way. Here’s a picture of the download:

The basic gist of the story tells how people had been living a happy existence, having all their needs met. Then, without notice, a yellow rabbit blew into town and convinced everyone they needed more to become happy. However, an old troll came through town to combat the rabbit and help everyone return to their previously happy state.

This troll, Alexa, created an elixir to help push back the Golden Rabbit’s message. However, as an assistant, the visitor (that’s you…or me in this case) had to help find the missing ingredient. To find it, the visitor must visit all their nearby trolls, gather the codes found on their necks, fill in the secret message, and use this to find the Golden Rabbit.

During this adventure, Alexa reaches her arm through her magic mirror trying to gather the supplies. This part of the story is represented by three portals located nearby. Now that we know the basic story, let’s meet the stars.

Alexa’s Elixir

Most people suggest starting at Detroit Lakes City Park. My, was it crowded! I didn’t like being there with so many people, so I chose to visit Alexa’s Elixir a second time. Just before dusk, Alexa stood quietly in the park. I loved the solitude and enjoyed walking through the park. Families visit and swim in the lake, and boats are available to rent as well. Alexa’s Elixir is easy to spot, and her book is filled with the tale I told above.

I enjoyed inspecting the book but loved having my very own paper copy. In fact, the paper copy provides addresses to help you locate all parts of the scavenger hunt.

The Portals

Fargo—Because I flew into Fargo, North Dakota, I actually searched out one of the portals first. I knew it was in an alley, so I parked (free) on the street and began the hunt. I ran into a man who was using his office for his son’s graduation party, and I asked if they loved or hated all the visitors. He expressed how much they loved having a little bit of Dambo in Fargo.

Perham—After Fargo I went to the Detroit Lakes City Park . Later in the day, while on my way to Frazee, I saw a sign with Perham on it. I decided to drive the 20 miles to check it out. I found the Portal in Perham and met two ladies who were journeying to western North Dakota. They stopped at the portal on the way, so we talked about Dambo and his creations. This arm was their first.

While the journey could have ended in one day—they were close enough for that, I chose to save the Detroit Lakes portal, Long Leif, and the Golden Rabbit for the next morning.

Detroit Lakes—I struggle to sleep well, so at 4:30 when I awoke the next morning, I was ready to go. However, I waited for breakfast and kept myself from looking like a lunatic until the reasonable hour of 7:00am.

Detroit Lakes is small, so my drive took less than five minutes from my hotel. Of course, no one was awake, so I took it all in. Birds used the birdhouses, and I could tell the area would normally receive plenty of visitors. Overall, Fargo’s portal took my heart for best portal, but the Detroit Lakes Portal came in a close second.

Ronny Funny Face

When searching for trolls, you always have to look for birdhouses. That is Thomas Dambo‘s signature move. Another clue happens to be all of the signs that say “trolls”. I’m telling you, the people of Minnesota wants you to see these beautiful structures, so they make it easy.

Ronny Funny Face can be found along a paved trail. The paved trail circles, a lovely lake, and provides plenty of bench seating along the way. While Ronny Funny Face is just off the trail, there is a small set of stairs that will lead you to the base of the troll.

Ronny intends to make everyone smile, and to be honest, it’s hard not to smile with a face just like his. In fact, everyone took apart and making funny faces for the camera.

Barefoot Frida

Frida’s home has been developing into something special—Ortenstone Gardens. While the project continues to grow, visitors can visit free of charge. Several dirt paths lead the way to Frida’s spot where she lays out rocks as a fun challenge for visitors. I can’t wait to see how the project will continue to grow. I have included some of the art installations currently available for viewing.

Ona impresses from far away. Locally harvested tree branches comprise her hair and make it feel as if her locks are blowing in the wind. As you approach her, you see yourself reflected in her eyes. While a bit creepy, these eyes tell the story of the human connection to nature.

As I approached Strata, I first saw the turf (not pictured here) that children were climbing. Their efforts distracted me until I passed the art and circled back. At that point I could see the human form take shape. I wanted to see it up close and found rocks and fencing created the artwork.

The horses you see in this final installation at Ortenstone Gardens look out on the lakes. As you stand to admire the work, trains regularly make their way down below. Though the area is developed now, I stood and imagined what this area would have been like hundreds of years ago. I’m sure we’d look on in awe.

Jacob Everear

Just outside Detroit Lakes you’ll find the town of Frazee. Their 1/3 of a mile dirt trail leads all the way to a troll where all the signs say it is OK to climb on him. Most trolls have a strict “hug only” policy, but Jacob doesn’t mind a little extra attention. In case you wondered, I decided to keep both feet firmly on the ground.

Jacob listens well, and his ears have grown to hear all the stories anyone has to tell. I personally enjoyed his relaxed stance and found his surroundings just right.

I have always said I love bridges…and I love the moon. To pass by a covered bridge on my way to Jacob Everear just made my day. Birds nested below, and I watched them flit around everywhere. I loved it.

Long Leif

If I shared the reason I wanted to visit Detroit Lakes, it would be so I could see Long Leif. I believe he’s the tallest troll built by Thomas Dambo at 36 feet!

You would think I’d rush to find him. However, I waited until Day 2. I left my hotel early and first went to the Detroit Lakes Portal.

When I arrived in the parking lot, I found only one other car in the lot. That person was in his car, so I started off. The cool, quiet morning set the tone. I did worry it might set the tone for a serial killer to take me down (too many crime shows), but my gut told me this moment would be nearly perfect. I saw the birdhouses and set my feet on the trail—only half a mile.

As a child I remember going to camp and walking through the dew tipped grass and feeling the crisp newness of the day. This walk took me right to that moment in history.

As I hiked, I felt the anticipation grow. The birdhouses went off the main path, and I followed. Standing before me…Long Leif. He, like me, has become a friend to trees.

I found a rock to serve as my photographer, and I snapped a few photos of my new friend. No one arrived to break the silence, and I felt thankful for the day.

As I began walking back to the parking lot, I started to plan my journey to the final structure—the Golden Rabbit.

The Golden Rabbit

Oh, but the Golden Rabbit awaits…After all this time with me sharing the troll hunt, I’d like to give you time to soak up the adventure. Look at the maps if you’d like…or just wait. Don’t worry, the rabbit arrives soon. Until then, love our world and do your best to care for it!