How can you use the hoe to speed up terrain traversal in Valheim?

In Valheim, the hoe is a versatile tool that can significantly speed up terrain traversal, especially in challenging biomes like the Mountains or Swamps. The hoe allows players to flatten or raise terrain, creating paths or bridges that make movement faster and safer. This is particularly useful in speedrunning, where efficiency and time-saving strategies are critical. To use the hoe effectively, you must first craft it using 5 Wood and 2 Stone at a Workbench. Once crafted, equip it and use its terrain-altering abilities to your advantage.\n\nOne of the primary ways to use the hoe for traversal is by creating flat paths. In uneven biomes like the Black Forest or Mountains, running over rough terrain slows you down and drains stamina. By flattening the ground, you can create smooth paths that allow for faster movement and conserve stamina. To do this, equip the hoe, aim at the ground, and use the ''Flatten'' option. This will level the terrain to match the height of the area you''re targeting, making it easier to run or sprint without interruptions.\n\nAnother effective strategy is using the hoe to raise terrain, which can help you bypass obstacles or create shortcuts. For example, in the Swamp biome, water and deep mud can slow you down significantly. By raising the ground, you can create elevated walkways that allow you to move quickly without getting stuck. To raise terrain, equip the hoe, aim at the desired area, and use the ''Raise'' option. This requires Stone, so make sure to carry plenty of it in your inventory. This technique is also useful for crossing rivers or creating bridges over gaps.\n\nIn the Mountains biome, the hoe can be a lifesaver when dealing with steep slopes and cliffs. Climbing these areas can be time-consuming and dangerous, especially with the risk of falling. By using the hoe to create terraced steps or gradual inclines, you can ascend or descend mountains more efficiently. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of taking fall damage. Additionally, flattening small areas on slopes can provide safe spots to regain stamina during your climb.\n\nFor speedrunning, combining the hoe with other tools and items can further enhance your traversal speed. For example, pairing the hoe with the Eikthyr power (reduces stamina usage for running and jumping) allows you to cover large distances quickly. Additionally, wearing the Fenris armor set increases movement speed, making your newly created paths even more effective. Always carry a pickaxe alongside your hoe, as it can help you gather Stone on the go or clear obstacles like large rocks that block your path.\n\nA common challenge when using the hoe is managing your Stone supply, as raising terrain consumes a lot of it. To address this, always gather Stone from nearby rocks or boulders before starting a large terrain project. In biomes like the Plains or Meadows, Stone is abundant, so take advantage of this to stockpile resources. Another tip is to plan your route in advance, identifying areas where terrain modification will have the most impact. This prevents unnecessary Stone usage and ensures your efforts are focused on the most critical sections of your path.\n\nFinally, practice using the hoe in different biomes to understand its full potential. Experiment with flattening, raising, and creating paths in various environments to see what works best for your playstyle. Remember that the hoe is not just a tool for building bases but also a powerful asset for speedrunning and efficient traversal. By mastering its mechanics, you can save valuable time and make your journey through Valheim smoother and more enjoyable.\n\nPractical tips for using the hoe: Always carry extra Stone, plan your routes ahead of time, and combine the hoe with movement-enhancing items or powers. Focus on creating paths in biomes with the most challenging terrain, such as the Mountains or Swamps, to maximize its effectiveness. With practice, the hoe can become one of your most valuable tools for speedrunning and exploration in Valheim.