Jakob Two Trees

Found my first PNW troll! 

Jakob Two Trees is a remarkable wooden troll sculpture located in Issaquah, Washington, crafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo as part of his worldwide recycled art series. Standing about 14 feet tall, this eco-friendly giant was built using repurposed wooden pallets and other reclaimed materials, emphasizing sustainability and creativity. Jakob is nestled along the Rainier Trail behind the Issaquah Community Center, where visitors can enjoy his intricate details, including a ponytail made of foraged sticks adorned with a band created by the Snoqualmie Tribe. This blend of Coast Salish and Scandinavian influences highlights the sculpture’s deeper cultural significance.

Jakob Two Trees was carefully constructed with the help of volunteers who dismantled pallets and supported the assembly process under Dambo’s guidance. Each detail of the sculpture, from his expressive face to the textures of his wooden “skin,” captures the imagination and fosters a connection between art and environmental awareness. The troll is part of Dambo’s Northwest Trolls project, which features similar sculptures across the region, each with its own unique story and location.

Visitors to Jakob Two Trees are encouraged to respect the site by practicing Leave No Trace principles. While there are no restrooms directly at the troll’s location, facilities are available nearby at the Issaquah Community Center. This family-friendly destination offers an opportunity to enjoy art, nature, and cultural storytelling in one inspiring outing. For those planning a visit, exploring the troll with children or embarking on a creative quest inspired by his presence can make for an unforgettable experience.

The parking is right off of the dog park. If gets busy so you may need to park in the neighborhoods. This troll is right at the start of the Rainier trail. Accessible to all! Jakob Two Trees is so cool. He's built into the trees and has so much detail. Perfect for photo ops. Afterward you can continue walking along the short paved trail that goes through the forest.