Volunteer Troll Walk guides, also known as Trollologists
One of the ongoing, regular events many years of Nordic Fest is listed in the program as Trollheim: Tur til fots (Tour of Troll Trails). What kind of mischief is this all about?
In 1973, Dr. George Knudson, Luther College professor of chemistry, as well as passionate promoter of the natural and cultural treasures of the Decorah area, brought his imaginative and fun Troll Walk through the Ice Cave and Dunning Springs areas to the seventh annual Nordic Fest. Dr. Knudson's spirit of fun at Nordic Fest may also be seen here.
Various books produced over the years regarding the history of the Decorah area have cited that mischief-making trolls joined Norwegian immigrants when making the long journey from Norway to the Decorah area.
Dr. Knudson built on these legends and tales, added in local history, geology and natural features and Trollheim: Tur til fots was born, providing a one hour family fun opportunity at most Nordic Fests since 1973.
Although Dr. Knudson and his wife were lost to a plane crash in Alaska in 1977, his colleagues with the Luther College biology department and community members carried on this enchanted tradition. Each guide brings his or her own unique spirit and twist to the Troll Walk story.
The incredible volunteers who have maintained and developed the Troll Walk tradition include: Jim Eckblad, Ed Epperly, Roger Knutson, Mary Lewis, Dennis Magnuson, Dave Roslien, Geraldine Schwarz, and John Tjostem,
Luther College is the longtime donor of the vans that carry Troll Walk participants from Downtown Decorah to the Dunning Springs area for the educational walk and attempts to capture trolls in photos. In the 42 years since the Trolls Walks have started, there have been no known clear captures of trolls, despite many photography attempts.
What have your troll experiences been in Decorah?
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