With his keen perception, unmatched archery and vast knowledge of Middle-earth, Legolas proved to be one of the most valuable assets for the Fellowship. Hailing from the Elven kingdom in Mirkwood, he only ever focused on the task at hand, despite being well aware that his people were leaving Middle-earth. However, by the end of the war, Legolas never mentions departing for the Undying Lands. So what happened to him after The Lord of the Rings?
The Elves of the Woodland Realm were known to be different from their other kin. They were often accused of being less wise and far more aggressive than others across Middle-earth. They even held Gollum as a prisoner before The Lord of the Rings but were later attacked by Sauron's forces, giving Gollum a chance to escape. And it was that attack that Legolas was sent to Rivendell to report.
Legolas Was Never Far From the Fellowship
While some Elven kingdoms were already on their way out of Middle-earth, the Woodland Realm was far too preoccupied with fighting the war. So, after Sauron had been defeated, Legolas returned to his homeland to help repair the damage caused by the dark forces. Yet, that wasn't his first act after the fighting stopped, as he was also focused on helping his new best friend, Gimli.
After Aragorn got crowned king, Legolas accompanied Gimli to the remains of Helm's Deep. Within the caves, Gimli began creating a new Dwarven kingdom, one to house all the Dwarves left homeless by the war. Legolas helped set up this place and restored much of the surrounding area to its former glory. In return, Gimli agreed to accompany Legolas into Fangorn Forest, where he received a guided tour of the mystical place.
Legolas and Gimli's Lord of the Rings Friendship Transcended Time
It's unknown how long Legolas stayed with Gimli, but eventually, they parted ways and returned to their homes. But once back to the Woodland Realms, the Elves of Mirkwood were in no hurry to leave Middle-earth. After rebuilding their home, many traveled to Gondor and provided their services to Minas Tirith, which had seen even worse damages.
However, no Elf was forced to stay, so some did leave for the Undying Lands. But many, like Legolas and his father, King Thranduil, were content with remaining for as long as possible. In fact, Legolas stayed for another 120 years before finally deciding to leave after his friend Aragorn had finally passed away, along with most of the Fellowship. So, he got to work building his own ship on the coasts of Gondor and said his final goodbyes to Middle-earth.
Legolas offered a place on the boat for Gimli, which was unprecedented in Elven history. No Dwarf had ever traveled West, even those who had been offered the chance. But the two held a strong friendship, and Gimli wished to see the beauty of Galadriel one more time. So, the two sailed away together and were never seen in Middle-earth ever again, creating one of the most wholesome endings in the entirety of The Lord of the Rings.