How do you gather stone in the Meadows biome without a pickaxe?

Gathering stone in the Meadows biome without a pickaxe is a common challenge for new players in Valheim. While a pickaxe is the most efficient tool for mining stone, it requires crafting materials like wood and hard antler, which are obtained by defeating Eikthyr, the first boss. If you haven’t progressed far enough to craft a pickaxe, there are still several ways to gather stone using basic tools and environmental resources.\n\nOne of the simplest methods is to collect loose stones scattered across the Meadows biome. These small, gray rocks are found on the ground and can be picked up by walking over them or interacting with them. They provide one stone each and are abundant in open areas. While this method is slow, it’s reliable and requires no tools. Look for clusters of stones near rivers, hills, or open fields to maximize your gathering efficiency.\n\nAnother way to gather stone is by breaking larger boulders or rock formations with a club or other melee weapon. While these tools are less efficient than a pickaxe, they can still damage rocks over time. Equip a wooden club or similar weapon and repeatedly attack the rock until it breaks. This method is time-consuming but effective if you’re in a pinch. Be prepared to repair your weapon afterward, as it will take durability damage.\n\nYou can also gather stone by destroying abandoned structures or ruins found in the Meadows biome. These structures often contain stone piles or walls that can be broken down with a weapon or even your fists. While this method is slower than using a pickaxe, it’s a great way to gather stone while exploring. Be cautious of nearby enemies, as some ruins may be guarded by Greylings or Greydwarfs.\n\nIf you’re near the Black Forest biome, you can gather stone by looting chests or breaking down stone structures found in abandoned towers or burial chambers. While this requires venturing into a more dangerous biome, it can yield a significant amount of stone quickly. Bring a weapon and be prepared to defend yourself against hostile creatures like Greydwarfs and skeletons.\n\nFor players who want to maximize their stone gathering without a pickaxe, consider combining these methods. Start by collecting loose stones in the Meadows, then move on to breaking boulders or ruins. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the edges of the Black Forest for additional resources. Once you’ve gathered enough stone, prioritize crafting a pickaxe to make future mining much easier.\n\nPractical tips for gathering stone without a pickaxe include staying near your base to minimize travel time and using a cart to transport large amounts of stone. If you’re breaking rocks with a weapon, repair it frequently to avoid losing durability mid-task. Finally, always be aware of your surroundings, as hostile creatures can interrupt your gathering efforts. With these strategies, you’ll have plenty of stone for crafting and building in no time.