Business of the Year - Trollhaugen

Business of the Year               

Individuals have conducted their business in such a way as to distinguish themselves in an extraordinary way and to make a significant contribution to the community.

Trollhaugen

On November 15th, 1950, Miss Beatrice Engh, an Osceola High School teacher, submitted the winning name of “Trollhaugen” to the local ski area and won $10.00.  In 1967, two practicing dentists from St. Paul, MN purchased Trollhaugen and hired 17-year-old James Stephen Rochford (better known as JR). Working summers and weekends, JR learned the ski business inside and out.  Trollhaugen celebrated its 50th year in business in 2017 and is now known as one of the most distinguished ski/snowboard areas in the Midwest.  JR estimates that over 4.5 million people have enjoyed Trollhaugen’s various ventures since 1950.
Many changes have occurred over the years: updates to buildings, lifts, and offices and new construction of a snowtubing facility, convention center, summer zip Lines and the largest aerial challenge course in the Upper Midwest.  Trollhaugen has also hosted the Memorial Mud Run for 50 years.

Trollhaugen employs over 400 seasonal staff each year, many of which are first jobs for local high schoolers. Several employees have stayed for 30 years.  The business offers heavily discounted lesson programs to all 5th grade school classes that visit. Trollhaugen donates over $50,000 in lift tickets to charitable organizations each season and partners with Courage Kenny to host weekly ski outings in January and February for participants with disabilities and special needs. The Rochford family has donated the property where the Dresser Fire Station is located.

We celebrate 50 years of business with the Rochford family and thank you heartily for your contributions to our communities.  Best wishes for your next 50 years as well!