Imlad Dirnen

From the north edge of the Mistmere a rock- cut path runs eastward into the high mountain peaks of the Ered Úmarth, following the course of one of the streams which feed the lake. The stream and trail wind their way through the barren defile of Imlad Dirnen, the Guarded Ravine. This gorge marks the site of the battle which took place between the Noldor and the dragons of the neighboring heights in the year of Evermist's founding (S.A. 1700). The ravine terminates in a lonely stonefield littered with the bones of fallen drakes. This nightmarish scene is presided over by the barrow-mounds of the Noldor who perished in that combat, silent sentinels against the ice-drakes still infesting the mountains beyond. Woven as they are with magical wards and enchanted banes, the mounds are held in utter terror by the worms, who dare not approach them.