The Troll Capital of the World is how many refer to Mount Horeb, Wisconsin. Attributed to the area's Norwegian roots, troll statues can be found throughout the town, and Main Street is more commonly referred to as the Trollway. For those not familiar with troll legends and lore, it is important to note that they are known for providing luck, perhaps making Mount Horeb one of the luckiest places in the world.
This small village in Southern Wisconsin's Dane County has a vibrant history and several unique claims to fame that have more lackluster small towns positively envious. In addition to being the troll capital of the world, it is also known as the mustard capital of the world. Until 2009, the village was home to the Mount Horeb Mustard Museum of Travel Channel fame, but it has since been relocated to Middleton, Wisconsin, where it has taken on the new name of The National Mustard Museum. Some are surprised to learn that an Englishman named the area in 1861, but a mix of European settlers have made their home here, and the Norwegian culture has maintained a strong presence. Farmland, a historic district, small town charm and an abundance of tiny trolls define this Wisconsin village.
Moving to Mount Horeb
Mount Horeb shows hospitality in many ways, and even offers a relocation packet filled with resources to assist those considering a move to the area. Some things that are good to know before encountering the locals are that Velkommen means "welcome" and that you should probably leave your garden gnomes behind and stock up on some four fingered trolls to fit into this village.
Finding Rental Property
One of the biggest complications for renters is the small amount of rental property in Mount Horeb. Slim pickings here means that there are not a slew of apartment complexes and sometimes fewer than five rental houses on the market. Start searching as early as possible and use all of the community resources available; local websites include email addresses and phone numbers of local contacts eager to assist potential residents. Kiss a troll for luck because the average four week property hunt could easily double here. Those in a rush could consider taking up residence on a friend's couch or a short term lease, or sublet in nearby Madison, where rental property is more plentiful. Be prepared with the usual first and last month's rent, pay stubs and payment for a credit check, so when a great property is available, there is nothing slowing you down from moving in.
Getting Around
Public transportation does not factor into this small town lifestyle. Most residents find access to a car a necessity, although those living near the Trollway will be able to bike to nearby shops and businesses.
Mount Horeb Neighborhoods and Apartments
Just over 7,000 people reside in the 3.25 square miles of Mount Horeb. This quirky village is considered one neighborhood, although there are a variety of property types throughout the village. Locals who don't refer to themselves as the village people enjoy the mix of the more populated Trollway area in the center of town and the spacious, scenic properties among the rolling hills that serve as a country retreat for others. Affordable property is a big draw and explains why so many opt for ownership rather than renting. Homes can come with approximately two acres in some areas, while a quarter to a half acre is more average. New builds keep going up, especially on the East side of town near Sunrise Park on streets such as Fjord Pass and further South near Sutter Farm Park on oddly named Eggum Road. Living near parks is easy to do, with parks found in every area of town. Those looking to be near neighboring Blue Mound State Park should focus their property hunt to the West side of town, while those planning to make frequent trips to Madison should concentrate on East Mount Horeb.
Trollway: Centrally located, this is the village's most visited area. A great location for people persons and lovers of historic homes, it also has access to the Military Ridge State Trail bike path, which extends for 39 miles. Hermits should live elsewhere.
Hoff Apartments: The rare apartment community in this odd Wisconsin town where cheese does not take center stage, the Hoff Apartments feature 12 1 bedroom apartment for rent units on the second level of the Hoff Mall. Located on the Trollway, residents are able to walk to many local businesses including the Grumpy Troll Pub.
Living in Mount Horeb
Trolls show up everywhere from street signs to business names, but Mount Horeb offers much more than trolling around. Residents enjoy an array of outdoor living, festivals and other attractions throughout the year.
Outdoor Activities
A plethora of parks populate the area, including Duane Hofstetter Conservation Park, Waltz Park, Liberty Park and Grundahl Park. Nearby Blue Mound State Park is popular with locals and tourists, as it features the highest point in southern Wisconsin, along with the geological treasures in the Cave of the Mounds just to the east of the village. Ice skating and hockey rinks, along with Tyrol Basin skiing, offer up the winter sports popular in Wisconsin.
Festivals
Summer starts festival season in Mount Horeb, and the Frolic kicks off both seasons with four days of events that include games, local beers, food, a parade and a run. Naturally, there is a Thirsty Troll Brew Fest in this troll crazed village, as well as the Taste of Mount Horeb, the Annual Art Fair, Cajun Fest, the Fall Heritage Festival, the Holiday Craft Bonanza and the Spring Art Tour.
Attractions
Two museums focus on local history and heritage: the Mount Horeb Area Museum and the Little Norway National Historic Place. The Wally Keller Tool Museum is just what the name suggests, a museum of tools. Of course, the Trollway is one of the main attractions in town incorporating many locations and businesses. Michael Feeney is the Troll Carver of Mount Horeb, who has carved more than 15 trolls on display throughout the town, and the village has a live troll named Jorgen who shows his face at local events during the year.
