Approximately Third Age 1000, the Valar became aware of a dark power arising in Middle Earth, about the time that Greenwood the Great darkened and became Mirkwood. To Middle Earth they sent five Maiar, or lesser Valar, disguised as old men. These were Saruman, Gandalf, Radagast, and two wizards referred to as the Blue Wizards who went into the far east and of whom there is limited tales. These wizards, or Istari, were sent to assist the peoples of Middle Earth without dominating them or directly challenging Sauron, who turned out to be the dark power rising again. Saruman was originally the leader, but after he attempted to displace Sauron and rule himself, Gandalf cast him out of the order and took his place as the chief of the wizards.
To find Istari, park at the parking coordinates, cross the cattle guard, then proceed to the posted coordinates for stage 1.Stage 2 is only another 0.1 mile away on relatively level ground. While there is no trail, the area has been cleared so it is an easy walk. Both stages are south of the elk fence.
This is a letterbox hybrid. In addition to the normal logbook and trade items, it also contains a letterbox stamp, inkpad, and stamp book. Please do not remove the stamp, ink pad, or stamp book. THEY ARE NOT TRADE ITEMS!