Idaho is a true paradise for anyone who loves to travel and explore new places. Our landscape is seemingly endless - and, perhaps even more so, spectacularly diverse! There's no denying that many of the most beautiful places in Idaho are mysterious, magical, and otherworldly, but one spot in the Panhandle is particularly special. If you've ever read and/or watched J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, you know that the lush, waterfall-filled scenery that comes to life in the movies is simply incredible. But you don’t have to be a Hobbit or live in Tolkien’s literary realm to experience the fantastical wilderness known as Middle Earth. That’s because "Middle Earth" can be found right here at Idaho's Priest Lake State Park!
At first glance, this beautiful lakefront state park in North Idaho, just a short drive from Canada, is gorgeous, without a doubt. But not at all fantasy-like. Right?
But the transformation begins as the sun begins to move across the horizon. This scenic haven starts to embody the colorful, magical qualities that shaped Tolkien's landscape into such a memorable one.
The fiery sunsets over Priest Lake have an eerie quality reminiscent of the blazing Eye of Sauron keeping watch over the landscape.
You can almost picture the looming presence of Mount Doom rising up in the distance.
But a slight shift in the season transforms the lake and surrounding landscape into a grey, haunting Mordor.
Travel into the national forests surrounding the park and you'll see a green, woodsy landscape that captures the beauty of Rivendell.
Even the Hobbits' Lake-town looks like it could be here.
Fortunately, Smaug doesn't rest at the bottom of this lake. although legend has it that Priest Lake is home to its own water monster!
But much like the movies offer twists, turns, and heartbreak, every day in this glorious state park showcases Idaho's beauty in a whole new light.
Tolkien's iconic books-turned-blockbusters may not have been filmed here, but honestly, they could have been!
What do you think? Tolkien's fantastical landscape may never be recreated exactly the way the author imagined it, but can you envision the tumultuous events of Middle Earth taking place here amidst the vibrant, wooded landscape of Priest Lake State Park?
Idaho's most beautiful places never fail to delight, inspire, and capture the imagination!
If you're not from North Idaho, no worries; Priest Lake is just one of the best state parks in Idaho - there are plenty more to explore that boast their own fantastical qualities! This well-known hike is one of our favorite trails in the area, but be sure to explore and find your own personal favorite!
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/idaho/backcountry-hike-lake-id/
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