Did Bilbo Baggins Visit the Lonely Mountain Again After the Events of The Hobbit?

Yes, Bilbo Baggins did visit the Lonely Mountain again after the events of The Hobbit. After the epic conclusion of the War of the Ring, Bilbo, along with Gandalf and other members of the Fellowship, made a significant journey to reclaim his status as a hero and reunite with old friends.

Post-War Adventures

In the appendices of The Lord of the Rings, it is stated that Bilbo traveled to the Lonely Mountain with Gandalf and the Fellowship of the Ring. This visit occurred at an advanced age, allowing Bilbo to reconnect with his fellow adventurers, particularly Thorin's heir, Dáin Ironfoot, and other dwarves from the Iron Hills. This meeting highlights Bilbo's enduring connection to the events of The Hobbit and his enduring friendships formed during that adventure.

Reunion with Frodo

In the Fellowship of the Rings, specifically in the chapter titled "Many Meetings," Frodo reunites with Bilbo for the first time in seventeen years. Bilbo gives Frodo an account of his adventures, including a trip to Dale and the Lonely Mountain (Erebor).

Appendix Details

Appendix B in the back of The Return of the King provides more specific details. It states that Bilbo departed The Shire in 3001 of the Third Age and settled in Rivendell in 3002. Bilbo left Bag End on September 22nd, 3001, and must have visited Dale and Erebor prior to settling in Rivendell.

Speculative Journey

Although there is no explicit mention of Bilbo’s visit to Erebor directly in the text, it is highly probable. Bilbo wandered extensively through Middle-earth for many years after unburdening himself of the Ring. It would be unlikely that he didn't make it to the other side of the Misty Mountains and visit his dwarf friends.

Movies and Texts

When viewing the movie The Fellowship of the Rings in Rivendell, Bilbo gives Frodo the Mithril shirt, telling him that he always meant to go back but never did. This statement adds to the intrigue of Bilbo’s post-hobbit journey.

It is mentioned that in the 17 years until Frodo's journey to Rivendell, Bilbo traveled back to Erebor and saw the progress in the rebuilding there. This part of the story emphasizes Bilbo's continued presence and impact in Middle-earth, even after his initial departure from the Shire.

Understanding Bilbo's subsequent adventures further enriches the narrative of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, offering a deeper appreciation for the enduring bonds and legacy of the characters in Middle-earth.