Finishing the Troll Trail (and Then Some): More Adventures with My Best Boy

Some dogs just don’t believe in leaving things unfinished.

A “few” weeks ago, Jocco and I set off to find the whimsical wooden trolls hidden in Vandalia, Ohio, part of artist Thomas Dambo’s magical global trail. We found two trolls on that first visit—but one escaped us.

So naturally, we came back. Because my sweet boy never let an adventure go incomplete.

🧌 Troll Hunt Part Two: How to Find the Third Troll (the Smart Way)

This time, we came prepared.

The closest entrance to the third troll is at the Vandalia Welcome Center—not the Homestead location where we had started before. (Both sites are still accessible with your day pass.) If you’re short on time or traveling with senior dogs or small kids, I highly recommend driving from one location to the other to see the trolls.

🗺️ Trail Tip:

• Park at the Vandalia Art Park Welcome Center
• Follow the trail until you reach a small creek
• Option 1 (short route): Walk across the creek and head straight—this will lead you directly to the troll
• Option 2 (long route): Turn left at the creek and follow the trail system around in a big loop
  • Along the way, you’ll see birding paths, signs to the other trolls, and even a fairy trail (we only spotted one fairy house, but the whimsy is still there!)

🥾 Pro Tip: If it’s a hot day or your dog needs a low-stress outing, go with the shorter path straight across the creek. The full loop is lovely but much longer.

🎟️ Your ticket includes access to both the Welcome Center and the Homestead for the day only. You can easily drive between the two trailheads without doing the full walk.

💦 A Cliffside Detour: Waterfalls & Wonders

Because one trail is never enough for a wanderer like Jocco, we also made a side stop to explore the waterfall overlook and the Thistlewaite Falls and Reserve across the road. The views were peaceful, and the path was gentle—just enough to stretch his legs without pushing too hard.

That boy always had a nose for the next stop.

🐾 Finishing What We Started

This wasn’t our last adventure, but it was meaningful.

We didn’t just find the missing troll—we lingered in the shade, listened to the birds, and walked quietly together. The kind of quiet that says: We did it. Together.

I’ll always be grateful we went back.

And I’ll always remember that look in his eyes when he saw that last troll—like he knew we completed the set.

📍 Quick Info: Vandalia Troll Trail

• Location: Vandalia, Ohio (just outside Dayton)
• Trailheads: Homestead & Welcome Center
• Pet-Friendly: Yes, leashes required
• Fairy Trail: Mixed visibility—fun for kids!
• Creek Crossings: Shallow and manageable
  • Best For: Families, senior dogs, casual explorers

🔗 Missed the first part of our troll adventure? Read Part One here

✈️ Want to Travel More—Without Breaking the Bank?

As much as I loved planning these wanderings with Jocco, I’ve also discovered how to turn my love of travel into something sustainable—through a flexible role as a travel agent and marketing rep

If you’ve ever thought about:

• Traveling more often (without spending more)
• Finding affordable travel destination
• Or earning while sharing your love of travel…

…I’d love to connect. I can share how I got started, what it looks like, and how you can start small—no pressure, just possibility.

💌 Drop a comment or message me

💬 Let’s Talk Trails & Tails

Do you have a favorite local trail with a magical twist?

Ever gone back to finish something just because it mattered?

Share your story in the comments —I love connecting with others who understand that the best memories often come from the slow, unexpected detours.

Until next time… keep wandering. 🐕💛

📌 Resources:

• Vandalia Troll Info
• Thistlewaite Falls