"Wisconsin-Happy Festival State", by Eve Phillips. My husband and I love to travel in the state of Wisconsin where we live and get great pictures on the way. My name is Laurie Kutil and photography has become a great passion of mine since 2010. One thing I have learned in researching each town before visiting it is that, "Every town has it's story". When I do uncover those stories by connecting with local residents, our experience becomes so much richer. In turn, sharing the stories with you brings me joy :)
Mount Horeb is a friendly community founded in 1867. It is southwest of Madison and its strong Norwegian roots are seen in the buildings throughout the city. What really put this friendly community on the map are the adorable carved-wood trolls. The trolls became a fixture in Mt. Horeb in the mid-80’s when a bypass was built to go around the city. The residents were worried less people would stop to visit, so the Trollway was created as an attraction to draw people off the bypass. It worked and the community sees plenty of visitors throughout the year coming to enjoy the many festivals and attractions offered. This downloadable map will help you find the trolls. This friendly sign greets you as you enter town, having recently celebrated it’s 150th anniversary in 2011.
Stop by the visitor center first if open, they have publications from the area to with local information to help you enjoy your visit!
Here are some of the many trolls, also Brutus the Dragon guarding the Visitor Center.
Let’s go on a Troll Stroll.
Mount Horeb also has a beautiful historic downtown with many businesses for great shopping and eating. Learn more about it here.
For a local brew in a friendly atmosphere, The Grumpy Troll is anything but!
Mt. Horeb is a community that likes the outdoors, and one of their popular attractions is the Military Ridge Trail that goes right through town, leading you to Ridgeway if you don’t stop. We had biked on this trail many times. Stop by the Visitor’s Center or self-register for a trail pass here.
If you plan on staying a bit longer than a day, The Village Inn Motel is a nice place to stay. More choices here.
Well, our visit is done. Wayne waves goodbye and hopes you come back soon!
Great essay and pix. Mt Horeb will become a destination if w ebb ever get to travel!
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Thanks Chip, feel free to check out some of my other posts. There may be something else of interest too 🙂
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I used to drive old 18 before the bypass, and enjoyed all the trolss you could see right along the highway, at various homes and businesses.
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trolls!
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