What is the best way to navigate rivers with a raft?

Navigating rivers with a raft in Valheim can be a challenging but rewarding experience, especially for new players exploring the game''s vast world. The raft is the first watercraft you can craft, requiring 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While it is slow and not ideal for long ocean voyages, it is perfect for short river trips and early-game exploration. To build a raft, you need to craft a Hammer, gather the required materials, and place the raft in shallow water near the shore.\n\nOnce your raft is ready, positioning is key. Always ensure the raft is facing the direction you want to travel before boarding. Use the rudder (right-click) to steer, and press W to move forward. The raft''s speed is limited, so patience is essential. Avoid traveling at night or during storms, as visibility is poor, and waves can make navigation difficult. If you encounter a storm, try to stay close to the shore or find a safe spot to wait it out.\n\nRivers in Valheim often wind through dense forests, Black Forests, or Meadows biomes, which can present obstacles like rocks, fallen trees, or shallow areas. To avoid getting stuck, keep an eye on the river''s depth and steer clear of visible obstacles. If your raft does get stuck, you can use your Hammer to dismantle it and rebuild it in deeper water. This is a useful trick to remember, especially in narrow or tricky river sections.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with enemies while on the raft. Serpents, Greylings, or even Draugr near the shore can pose a threat. Always carry a weapon like a bow or spear for defense. If you encounter a Serpent, try to steer toward the shore and fight it on land, as combat on the raft is difficult. Additionally, avoid stopping near hostile biomes like the Swamp or Plains, as enemies in these areas are more dangerous.\n\nFor longer river journeys, plan your route carefully. Use the map to identify river paths and mark key locations like safe landing spots or resource-rich areas. If you need to cross a river to reach a new biome, the raft is a great tool, but be cautious of strong currents or waterfalls. Falling off the raft in deep water can be risky, especially if you are over-encumbered or lack stamina. Always keep your stamina high by eating food like Cooked Meat or Berries before setting out.\n\nExperienced players can optimize raft navigation by using the wind to their advantage. While the raft does not have a sail, wind direction can still affect your speed slightly. Position the raft so the wind is at your back for a small boost. Additionally, consider building small outposts along the river with Workbenches and Chests to store resources or rest during long trips. This strategy is especially useful in multiplayer games where multiple players may need to transport materials.\n\nIn summary, navigating rivers with a raft in Valheim requires careful planning, patience, and awareness of your surroundings. Use the raft for short trips, avoid dangerous biomes, and always be prepared for combat or environmental challenges. With practice, you can master river navigation and use the raft to explore new areas, gather resources, and expand your Viking empire.