How do you avoid falling trees while gathering wood in Valheim?

Gathering wood is a fundamental activity in Valheim, but falling trees can pose a significant danger if not handled carefully. Trees in Valheim follow realistic physics, meaning they fall in the direction they are leaning or where they are struck most. Understanding this mechanic is crucial to avoid taking damage or getting trapped under a falling tree.\n\nTo safely gather wood, always assess the direction a tree is leaning before chopping it down. Trees typically lean slightly in one direction, and this will determine where they fall. Stand on the opposite side of the lean when chopping to ensure the tree falls away from you. For example, if a tree leans to the left, position yourself on the right side before striking it with your axe.\n\nAnother key strategy is to clear the area around the tree before chopping. Remove any nearby obstacles, such as rocks, stumps, or other trees, that could cause the falling tree to bounce or roll unpredictably. This is especially important in dense forests or near your base, where falling trees can damage structures or create hazards. If you''re in a biome like the Black Forest, where trees are taller and more clustered, take extra care to avoid chain reactions where one falling tree knocks over others.\n\nWhen chopping multiple trees in a row, always maintain a safe distance from the falling tree. After a tree starts to fall, quickly move away to avoid being hit. If you''re using a higher-tier axe, such as the Bronze Axe or Iron Axe, trees will fall faster, so your reaction time needs to be quicker. Beginners should practice with the basic Stone Axe to get a feel for the mechanics before upgrading.\n\nIn some cases, trees may fall in unexpected directions due to uneven terrain or hidden slopes. If you''re chopping trees on a hill, be cautious of the downhill side, as trees are more likely to roll or slide in that direction. To mitigate this, try to position yourself uphill when chopping. Additionally, avoid chopping trees near cliffs or water, as falling trees can tumble over the edge and become difficult to retrieve.\n\nFor advanced players, consider using the environment to your advantage. For example, you can intentionally fell trees onto enemies like Greylings or Greydwarfs to deal damage. This tactic is particularly useful in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes, where these creatures are common. However, always ensure you''re not in the line of fire when using this strategy.\n\nFinally, always keep an eye on your stamina while chopping wood. Running out of stamina mid-chop can leave you vulnerable to falling trees or nearby enemies. Carry food items like Cooked Meat or Berries to replenish stamina quickly. If you''re in a dangerous area, such as the Swamp or Plains, consider bringing a shield or weapon to defend yourself while gathering wood.\n\nBy following these tips, you can gather wood efficiently and safely in Valheim. Remember to always assess your surroundings, plan your chopping direction, and stay alert to avoid accidents. With practice, you''ll master the art of tree felling and minimize risks while maximizing your resource collection.