The Golden Rabbit

After searching for all the other trolls, I was ready to seek out the Golden Rabbit. I knew it was in the same area as Long Leif, but I wanted to see it last. After all, every other troll provided a clue leading to the Golden Rabbit.

As I mentioned before, my morning began early. Driving took about fifteen minutes from town. I passed many opportunities for fun outdoor adventures that sat quietly waiting for the day to commence.

Entering the parking lot, one lone car sat. I chose to park near the store. The man in the car seemed to be writing messages on the “Happy Wall”. I tried it out after all my adventures…

The path to the Golden Rabbit, like most Dambo challenges, began with some birdhouses. The hike promised to be more rigorous than other trails, so I hydrated and began.

Walking down a hill took me from the concrete parking area to a serene path. At first I noticed efforts to regrow grass. I also stepped over a makeshift bridge that had been created by fellow hikers to keep them out of the muddy slush that seemed to arrive with rain.

Eventually I began to enjoy the melodious songs of the birds and the secluded space. New trees had been planted, and I continued the hilly but manageable path. I admired the beautiful scenery yet paid attention to my level of effort.

My heart rate steadily beat, but the walk felt comfortable. It might have increased slightly when I heard the sounds of larger animals making their way through the brush. I never released the thoughts of bears from my mind. Thankfully this time the deer (not bears) lifted their tails and bounded away. They must have preferred to eat in private.

I wound around the path and knew the end neared as I ascended a well built staircase. And…poof—the rabbit appeared.

Rabbit is gold because its construction included plastic parts. It symbolizes the materialistic and eco-harmful products humans purchase. There is even a sign nearby that challenges every visitor to spend the day without making any new purchases.

I found a video of Thomas Dambo completing the rabbit (you can see inside). Built of recycled materials, the Golden Rabbit shows how repurposing discarded materials can actually produce something beautiful.

I lingered for some time as the quiet space felt rejuvenating. As with all journeys, though, I returned to reality. Next step…Mississippi Headwaters!