Enchanted River

Throwing a Rope by Matěj Čadil

The Enchanted River rose in the Mountains of Mirkwood, and flowed northwards in a great loop to meet the Forest River under the canopy of the trees of Mirkwood. Its water was black, and carried a curse that gave the river its name - any person coming into contact with its enchanted water immediately fell into a long, deep sleep.

About halfway along its length, the Enchanted River flowed across the Elf-path that led west to east through Mirkwood to the Elvenking's Halls, and it seems that a ferry was maintained there, presumably for the use of the Wood-elves. At least, Bilbo Baggins and the Dwarves found a boat kept on the eastern bank of the River, which they used to cross it on their journey to Erebor. However, Bombur fell in the river and lost consciousness, and his companions had to pull him out and carry him for several days with ropes.

Portrayal in adaptations

1982-97: Middle-earth Role Playing:

The Enchanted River, said to be called Gûlduin or Gûlhir in Sindarin, is 100 miles long.

2013: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug:

The Enchanted River appears only in the extended edition. As in the book, Bombur falls in it and the other Dwarves have to carry him. They are forced to find another way past the river, which causes them to get lost in the forest.

The Enchanted River flows under the repaired bridge in The Lord of the Rings Online

2018: The Lord of the Rings Online:

The Enchanted River was formerly called Lúthir (Sindarin: Flower River) by the Elves. After its corruption, the river's name was changed to Rhachló (Sindarin: Cursed River). The enchantment persists even after the downfall of Sauron, when the rest of the Mirkwood forest is cleansed and becomes Eryn Lasgalen. Entering the water - or even approaching it - puts a "dreamy" visual effect on the screen and causes the player's character to involuntary lie down, repeating every seconds after getting back up. The enchantment disappears when the waters are joined by those of the Forest River.