How do I unlock the iron pickaxe in Valheim?

Unlocking the iron pickaxe in Valheim is a crucial step for progressing in the game, as it allows you to mine higher-tier resources like silver and obsidian. To craft the iron pickaxe, you must first gather iron, which is found in the Swamp biome. However, accessing iron requires defeating the second boss, The Elder, and obtaining the Swamp Key to unlock Sunken Crypts, where iron scrap can be found.\n\nTo begin, you must first defeat The Elder, the second boss in Valheim. This boss is located in the Black Forest biome and is summoned by placing three Ancient Seeds in its altar. Ancient Seeds are obtained by destroying Greydwarf Nests or defeating Greydwarf Brutes and Shamans. Once The Elder is defeated, it drops the Swamp Key, which grants access to Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome.\n\nAfter obtaining the Swamp Key, head to the Swamp biome, which is identifiable by its murky water, leafless trees, and hostile creatures like Draugr and Leeches. Locate a Sunken Crypt, which resembles a stone structure with green torches outside. Use the Swamp Key to unlock the iron gate and enter the crypt. Inside, you will find Muddy Scrap Piles, which can be mined with an antler pickaxe or bronze pickaxe to obtain iron scrap.\n\nOnce you have gathered enough iron scrap, return to your base and smelt it in a Smelter using coal as fuel. Each iron scrap yields one iron bar. To craft the iron pickaxe, you will need 20 iron bars and three core wood. Core wood is obtained by chopping down pine trees in the Black Forest biome using a bronze axe or better. Ensure you have a Forge upgraded to at least level 2, as this is required to craft the iron pickaxe.\n\nCrafting the iron pickaxe unlocks the ability to mine silver in the Mountain biome and obsidian in the Mountain and Plains biomes. These resources are essential for crafting advanced weapons, armor, and tools. Additionally, the iron pickaxe has higher durability and mining efficiency compared to the bronze pickaxe, making it a valuable upgrade for resource gathering.\n\nA common challenge players face is locating Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome. To overcome this, explore the edges of the Swamp biome first, as crypts are often found near the water. Use a boat to navigate the coastline and mark crypt locations on your map for easy reference. Another tip is to bring poison resistance mead, as the Swamp biome is filled with poisonous enemies and environmental hazards.\n\nIn summary, unlocking the iron pickaxe involves defeating The Elder, exploring Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome, and gathering iron scrap to smelt into iron bars. With the iron pickaxe, you can access higher-tier resources and significantly improve your mining efficiency. Always prepare adequately for the Swamp biome by bringing poison resistance mead, healing items, and a reliable weapon to handle its dangers.