The Trolls of Boothbay Harbor: A Magical Encounter at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Nestled among the forests of Boothbay Harbor, a family of whimsical giants waits to be discovered. Known simply as the “Guardians of the Seeds,” these trolls are the work of Danish artist Thomas Dambo, a world-renowned sculptor famous for creating large-scale trolls from reclaimed and recycled wood.
Troll having fun
Who Are the Trolls?
Each troll at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has a story to tell. Dambo’s vision is to reconnect visitors with nature, reminding us of the importance of protecting the environment. His trolls can be found in forests and gardens around the world, and here in Maine, they’ve become one of the garden’s most popular attractions.
In addition to Boothbay Harbor, you can find Dambo’s trolls in other U.S. locations such as The Morton Arboretum in Illinois, Bernheim Arboretum in Kentucky, and Breck Create in Colorado. No matter where you encounter them, each troll carries the same message of environmental stewardship, built from discarded pallets, scrap wood, and fallen trees giving proof that beauty and art can grow from what others consider waste.
Meditating Troll
Built from Recycled Materials
What makes these trolls remarkable isn’t just their size, towering figures hidden in the woods, but also their construction. Dambo and his team use recycled wood, branches, and other salvaged materials, turning cast-offs into art that feels both timeless and alive. Their rough textures, playful expressions, and giant scale bring out the childlike wonder in everyone who visits.
The Gardens Through the Seasons
The trolls are just one part of the magic at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. No matter the season, there’s something spectacular to see:
Spring: Bursting with color as tulips, daffodils, and early perennials bloom. The fresh greenery makes the trolls look like they’ve just woken up from winter’s sleep.
Summer: The gardens are alive with roses, hydrangeas, and vibrant annual displays. It’s the perfect time to wander the trails and stumble upon trolls tucked into shady groves.
Fall: Brilliant foliage surrounds the gardens, and the trolls seem right at home among the fiery reds and golds of Maine’s autumn.
Winter: The gardens sparkle with their famous Gardens Aglow event, where lights transform the landscape into a holiday wonderland, and yes, even the trolls get their moment to shine under twinkling colors.
Troll in the winter
Why You Should Visit
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens offer more than just plants and sculptures. They create an immersive experience that celebrates both art and nature. Whether you’re chasing spring blooms, summer strolls, autumn foliage, or winter lights, the trolls add a sense of adventure and delight that make every visit unforgettable.