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In your continuing quest to save Middle Earth from the tyranny of Sauron, you need to pass through the Mines of Moria, to get to shelter at Lothlorien.
On this Epic Adventure through the Mines of Moria, you can choose to be anyone of the Fellowship of the Ring. Gandalf could be a bad choice, as you might not make it out alive, thanks to the fearsome Balrog, so it is recommended you go as Gimli the Dwarf. Equipped with his knowledge of Dwarven mines, and his underground savvy, you stand the greatest chance of navigating through the Mines of Moria.
However, it is advisable to bring along as many of the Fellowship as possible, to help you through this frightening journey.
Note: In order to make it through the mines, you will need to bring enough light to guide you in the dark. A few sturdy torches, and enough fuel to keep them burning is critical.
While on your journey, you might find one of the Rings of Power or various other useful items. You are welcome to keep one, but you can trade only for Middle Earth items.
Waypoint 1: Valley of the Echoes
34° 07.510 S
018° 26.864 E
Your journey to the mines starts at the entrance to the Valley of the Echoes. At the sign, the climb starts up towards the Misty Mountains, which you need to cross in order to reach the safety of Lothlorien beyond.
Though the climb is tough, the mighty river Anduin flows alongside you for part of the way, and there is a resting place with a small pool, for weary travelers, about half way up.
Waypoint 2: Crossroads
34° 07.173 S
018° 26.567 E
You are well into the Misty Mountains now, and for the braver of the fellowship the recommended route is to turn left here, and head towards the Pass of Cahadras. This pass can be difficult to navigate, particularly in the snow with Saruman attempting to bring down an avalanche on you. The less brave might want to head a bit further on at the crossroads, and turn left onto Jojolu Track. This is an unchartered track, so explore at your own risk.
Waypoint 3: Pass of Cahadras
34° 07.220 S
018° 26.458 E
Just after reaching the top of the path, you reach a large overhang/open cave. Just pass this, you need to turn right into the Pass of Cahadras. This requires a slight bit of climbing, but should be easy for anyone who has climbed The Winding Stair on Frodo’s Journey
Waypoint 4: The Mines of Moria
34° 07.181 S
018° 26.369 E
Here in front of you lies the only way through the Misty Mountains. Fortunately, Galadriel has again blessed your journey, and no giant squid or Elvin door block your path this time. The entrance to the mines are up the obvious path leading up and into the mountain.
(those keen for a bit more adventure can explore the smaller mines, about 10- 20m to the right of the main entrance.)
In the mines, Gandalf’s Power Staff will be useless, due to an Ancient Evil Magic hanging heavy in the air, so pay close heed to the route. Hidden inside the mines is a secret scroll, with instructions to the location of your final destination near Lothlorien, on the other side of the Misty Mountains.
Once down into the mines, you will need to proceed carefully over the remnants of The Bridge of Khazad-dum. Once a grand bridge crossing a mighty river, which often flows through this section of the mine in the wet season, it has been reduced now to a few small stones remaining, where you will need to jump from stone to stone, lest you get swept away by the river (or at least get your shoes slightly wet).
Once over the bridge, head slightly left over the mound, and then turn to head right, up a bed of rocks to a level a few meters up. A faint beam of light from above might be visible here. Turn now left into the Great Entrance Hall of Khazad-dum. It is important to be quiet in the Great Hall, and you will be able to hear the shrieks of baby Nazgul flying around at the far end of the hall. Some of these Nazgul could be carrying Ringwraiths, but you will need to take your chances, and pass right underneath the Nazgul, so be careful here!
About 20m further on, 2 yellow arrows point the way right to Balin’s Tomb. It is here that the secret scroll lies. 2m to the right of the arrows is a small enclave. The scroll is hidden in and on the left wall of the enclave, in a small hole with a few rocks hiding it.
Heed the advice of the scroll, and proceed right to the chamber of Balin’s Tomb. Once in the chamber, turn left at the 2 white star flowers on the roof, and continue straight to the ext of the mines.
The path gets fairly low towards the exit, and here you will be pleased if you have the small stature of Gimli or a hobbit. Using the clue on the scroll, you should now be able to locate your final destination near the exit, from where you can look towards Lothlorien forest, down and to the left. You may now return to the start via this new path.
Well done, you have now successfully navigated the Mines of Moria, and now deserve a rest, before heading of on the next mission to save Middle Earth from the wrath of Sauron!
Additional Hints
(No hints available.)