Victor Troll
This massive, 21-foot sculpture is nestled in the foothills of the historic mining town of Victor, Colorado.
Victor's Gentle Giant: Rita the Rock Planter
Nestled in the scenic mountains near Cripple Creek, Colorado, you'll find Rita the Rock Planter. Created by artist Thomas Dambo, Rita is a towering troll figure crafted entirely from recycled wood. But she's not just any troll – Rita kneels on the ground, carefully tending to the earth.
Inspired by the historic mining landscape, Rita kneels attentively, patching up the ground where minors from the 1800s may have carelessly left holes behind. This playful giant serves as a symbol of environmental care, reminding us to treasure the beauty around us.
How to Find Rita
There are two ways to reach Rita the Rock Planter:
- Hike the Little Grouse Mountain Trail: This is a more adventurous option offering scenic views. The trailhead is located one mile west of Victor on Highway 67. Look for a dirt parking lot on the left. The hike itself is a short, rocky stroll of about 0.25 miles to reach Rita.
Google Maps Link > - Drive Up: If you prefer to avoid hiking, you can drive directly to the upper parking lot. This route is separate from the trailhead and may not be well-marked. It's recommended to consult a map or ask locals for directions.
Tips for Visiting
- Follow the colorful birdhouses that mark the hiking trail.
- For a shorter hike, drive up the road and park in the upper lot.
- Please respect the fragile meadowland and stay on the designated trail, leaving wildflowers and rocks for others to enjoy
- Explore the charming town of Victor while you're there. Grab a bite to eat, shop in their boutiques and visit a museum or a real working gold mine!
Bringing Rita to Life: Funding
Did you know Victor's beloved Rita the Rock Planter was made possible by the Gold Camp District Impact Group (gcDIG)? This non-profit organization is dedicated to breathing new life into Victor's economy, and Rita is a shining example of their efforts.
Thanks to GCDIG's sponsorship, artist Thomas Dambo was able to create this unique sculpture using 100% recycled wood. Rita serves as a symbol of environmental care and artistic renewal, perfectly capturing the spirit of Victor.
But gcDIG can't do it alone! Here's how you can be a part of Victor's ongoing revitalization:
- Visit Rita: Show your support by taking a trip to see Rita in person! Snap a photo and share it on social media using #RitaTheRockPlanter.
- Donate to gcDIG: Every contribution helps GCDIG continue its mission of supporting Victor's economic and artistic growth. Visit their website (link to be added when available) to learn more about donating.
- Spread the Word: Tell your friends and family about Rita and the charming town of Victor.
By working together, we can ensure Victor continues to thrive as a vibrant community rich in art and history.
