If you thought Frodo Baggins hugging Samwise Gamgee amidst Mordor lava flows was hot, check this out. Pack your bags, we’re going to Middle-earth for an adventure that spans generations. This all expense paid trip was announced yesterday by Turbine, creators of The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar. The official 7-day free trial program is available to fans in North America, Australia and New Zealand. Since its launch in April of this year, LOTRO has grown like wildfire, becoming the second largest MMORPG with over 4 million characters.

You can download the game client directly from the LOTRO website, available in standard and high resolution versions. This is a great way for gamers to experience the gameplay without committing to a membership. After the 7-day trial expires players will have to option to keep their character by purchasing the game online (or at a retail outlet) and signing up for a full subscription.

Also this week came the announcement of the Lord of the Rings Online Sweepstakes. Prizes include three lifetime subscriptions, fifteen game boxes, and fifteen 60-day subscription game cards. Visit http://www.mmorpg.com/contests/lotro_promo.cfm to register and win.