What are the best strategies for portal placement in the Mountains?

Portal placement in the Mountains biome of Valheim is a critical strategy for efficient exploration, resource gathering, and survival. The Mountains are one of the most dangerous biomes, home to Drakes, Wolves, and Stone Golems, as well as valuable resources like Silver and Obsidian. Proper portal placement ensures you can quickly return to safety, transport resources, and avoid unnecessary risks.\n\nFirst, always carry portal materials with you when venturing into the Mountains. You will need 10 Fine Wood, 20 Greydwarf Eyes, and 2 Surtling Cores to craft a portal. These materials are relatively easy to obtain early in the game, so stockpile them before heading into the Mountains. Additionally, ensure you have a workbench nearby to build the portal, as it is required for construction.\n\nWhen placing a portal in the Mountains, prioritize high ground and defensible locations. Look for flat areas near cliffs or rock formations that provide natural cover from enemies. Avoid placing portals in open areas where you are vulnerable to Drakes or Wolves. If possible, build a small shelter around the portal to protect it from damage and provide a safe space to recover.\n\nA key strategy is to establish a network of portals. Before entering the Mountains, set up a portal at your base with a unique name. When you arrive in the Mountains, build a second portal with the same name to create a direct link. This allows you to quickly return to your base to repair gear, restock supplies, or deposit valuable resources like Silver Ore. Always carry materials to build a second portal in case you need to relocate or create a new link.\n\nOne common challenge in the Mountains is the steep terrain, which can make it difficult to find suitable portal locations. If you are struggling to find a flat area, consider using the Hoe to level the ground. This tool is invaluable for creating stable building sites in uneven terrain. Additionally, you can use the Pickaxe to carve out a small platform in a cliffside if necessary.\n\nAnother important consideration is portal security. The Mountains are home to aggressive enemies that can destroy your portal if left unprotected. To prevent this, surround your portal with walls or stakewalls. You can also place a campfire nearby to deter Wolves, as they avoid fire. If you are playing with friends, assign someone to guard the portal while others explore.\n\nFor experienced players, consider setting up multiple portals in the Mountains to cover different areas. For example, place one portal near a Silver vein and another near a Drake spawn point for easy access to resources and trophies. Label each portal clearly to avoid confusion when traveling between them. This approach maximizes efficiency and minimizes backtracking.\n\nFinally, always have a backup plan. If your portal is destroyed or you are unable to build one, carry materials for a raft or karve to escape by sea. The Mountains often border other biomes, so knowing the surrounding terrain can save your life in an emergency.\n\nIn summary, portal placement in the Mountains requires careful planning and preparation. Prioritize defensible locations, carry extra materials, and establish a network of portals for efficient travel. Use tools like the Hoe and Pickaxe to adapt to the terrain, and protect your portals from enemy attacks. With these strategies, you can conquer the Mountains and reap their rewards safely.