How can I build a moat to protect my base from raids?

Building a moat in Valheim is one of the most effective ways to protect your base from raids, as it creates a physical barrier that prevents enemies from reaching your structures. To start, you’ll need a pickaxe, which can be crafted using 10 wood and 1 hard antler (dropped by the first boss, Eikthyr). The pickaxe is essential for digging into the terrain to create your moat. Choose a location for your base that is relatively flat and accessible, as uneven terrain can make digging more challenging.\n\nBegin by marking the perimeter of your base where you want the moat to be. Use the hoe to level the ground if necessary, ensuring the area is even for easier digging. Once the perimeter is marked, equip your pickaxe and start digging along the outer edge of your base. Aim to create a trench that is at least 4-5 meters wide and deep enough so that enemies cannot jump across or climb out. The deeper and wider the moat, the more effective it will be at stopping raids.\n\nAs you dig, you’ll notice that the terrain changes and water may start to fill the moat if you’re near a body of water. This is a great feature, as water slows down enemies and makes it even harder for them to cross. If you’re not near water, don’t worry—the dry moat will still serve its purpose. Be mindful of the terrain type; digging in the Meadows biome is easier than in the Black Forest or Mountains due to the softer ground.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with uneven terrain or large rocks that block your progress. Use the pickaxe to break rocks and the hoe to level the ground as needed. If you encounter steep slopes, consider building a staircase or ramp to make it easier to move dirt and debris out of the moat. Additionally, ensure the moat is continuous and doesn’t have any gaps, as enemies can exploit even small openings to reach your base.\n\nOnce the moat is complete, you can reinforce it by adding spikes or walls along the inner edge. Spikes can be crafted using wood and placed along the moat to deal damage to any enemies that fall in. Walls or palisades can also be built to add an extra layer of defense. For added security, consider building a bridge or drawbridge that you can remove or raise during raids to prevent enemies from crossing.\n\nFinally, remember that moats are not foolproof. Flying enemies like Drakes or Deathsquitos can still bypass the moat, so it’s important to have additional defenses like archer towers or ballistae. Regularly repair and maintain your moat, as terrain changes or enemy attacks can sometimes alter its shape. With a well-designed moat, your base will be much safer from raids, allowing you to focus on exploration and crafting without constant interruptions.\n\nPractical tip: If you’re short on time or resources, focus on digging a moat around the most critical parts of your base, such as your crafting stations or storage areas. This targeted approach can still provide significant protection while conserving materials and effort.