Morgul Pass

A major pass through the Mountains of Shadow, Ephel Dúath on the western borders of Mordor. Through the Pass ran the road known as the Morgul-way, that lead up from Ithilien past the gates of Minas Morgul, and then on up into the Mountains. Ultimately the Pass descended again onto the plains of Mordor beyond, and the road ran on to Orodruin and then to the distant gates of Barad-dûr itself.

Over the northern wall of the Morgul Pass, far above the main roadway, was a steep secondary pass reached by a perilous stairway, and known as Cirith Ungol. This was the dangerous route taken by Frodo and Sam on their journey into the Land of Shadow.