What is the best way to use portals for exploring the Mountains?
Portals are one of the most powerful tools in Valheim for efficient exploration, especially in dangerous biomes like the Mountains. To use portals effectively, you must first craft them using Surtling Cores, Fine Wood, and Greydwarf Eyes. Each portal requires a pair with matching tags to function, so always plan ahead by naming your portals logically. For example, naming a portal ''Mountain1'' at your base and placing another with the same name in the Mountains ensures seamless travel.\n\nBefore venturing into the Mountains, prepare thoroughly. Bring Frost Resistance Mead, a Warm Cape, or both to survive the freezing temperatures. Stock up on food like Cooked Meat, Carrot Soup, and Honey for stamina and health. Equip a Pickaxe to mine Silver and Obsidian, and bring a weapon like a Frostner or Draugr Fang to handle Wolves, Drakes, and Stone Golems. Portals allow you to quickly return to your base to repair gear or restock supplies, making them essential for long expeditions.\n\nWhen exploring the Mountains, place a portal as soon as you find a safe spot. Look for flat terrain near a rock formation or cliff to minimize the risk of enemies destroying it. Always carry the materials for a workbench and portal (10 Fine Wood, 2 Surtling Cores, and 20 Greydwarf Eyes) to set up a new portal if needed. If you die, having a portal nearby lets you retrieve your items quickly without a long trek.\n\nA common challenge in the Mountains is dealing with Drakes, which can destroy your portal if left unprotected. To prevent this, build a small shelter around your portal using Stone or Wood. This also provides a safe spot to recover stamina and health during storms. If you''re mining Silver, place a portal near the vein to transport ore back to your base efficiently. Remember, portals cannot transport metals like Silver or Iron, so you''ll need to carry them manually or use a Longship for bulk transport.\n\nFor experienced players, consider setting up a network of portals across multiple Mountain biomes. This allows you to explore different areas without backtracking. Use markers on your map to note portal locations and important resources like Silver veins or Dragon Eggs. If you''re hunting Moder, the Mountain boss, place a portal near the summoning altar to prepare for the fight and recover afterward.\n\nIn summary, portals are indispensable for Mountain exploration. Plan your portal names, carry backup materials, and protect your portals from enemies. Use them to streamline resource gathering, boss fights, and recovery after death. With proper preparation, portals can turn the treacherous Mountains into a manageable and rewarding biome.\n\nPractical Tips: Always carry portal materials, name portals clearly, and build shelters to protect them. Use Frost Resistance Mead or a Warm Cape to survive the cold, and mark key locations on your map for efficient navigation.