Where can I locate the best spots to farm stone in the mountains in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Farming stone in the mountains of ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most efficient ways to gather large quantities of this essential resource. Stone is used for crafting a variety of items, including structures, tools, and ammunition, making it a critical material for both early and late-game progression. The mountainous regions of the game are rich in stone nodes, which are large, gray boulders that yield stone when harvested. Below is a detailed guide on how to farm stone effectively in the mountains, covering mechanics, strategies, and tips.

To begin, you need to understand the mechanics of stone farming. Stone nodes are found in abundance in mountainous areas, particularly in regions with rocky terrain. These nodes can be harvested using tools like the Pickaxe or by certain dinosaurs with high melee damage, such as the Doedicurus. The Doedicurus is especially effective because it has a special ability that allows it to gather stone more efficiently than any other creature or tool. When using a Doedicurus, you can gather thousands of stone in a short amount of time, making it the best option for large-scale farming.

Step-by-step, here is how to farm stone in the mountains. First, you need to prepare for the journey. The mountains are dangerous areas, often populated by aggressive creatures like Carnotaurus, Raptors, and even the occasional Rex. It is essential to bring a strong mount for protection, such as a Rex, Spino, or even a pack of Raptors. Additionally, you should carry basic supplies like food, water, and medical brews in case of emergencies. If you plan to use a Doedicurus, make sure it is saddled and leveled in melee damage to maximize stone collection.

Once you arrive at the mountain, locate the stone nodes. These are large, gray boulders scattered across the rocky terrain. If you are using a Doedicurus, simply approach the node and attack it. The Doedicurus will automatically gather stone, and its weight reduction for stone will allow you to carry more before needing to return to your base. If you are using a Pickaxe, dismount your mount and manually harvest the nodes. Be cautious, as this leaves you vulnerable to attacks from predators.

Important tips and considerations include always being aware of your surroundings. The mountains are home to many dangerous creatures, and it is easy to get overwhelmed if you are not careful. Keep your mount close and ready to defend you. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the mountain with storage boxes and a bed. This will allow you to store your stone and respawn nearby if you die. Another tip is to use a weight-reducing mount like an Argentavis or a Quetzal to transport large amounts of stone back to your base.

Common mistakes to avoid include venturing into the mountains unprepared. Without a strong mount or proper supplies, you risk losing your inventory and potentially your tamed creatures. Another mistake is overloading your mount with stone, which can slow you down and make it difficult to escape from danger. Always monitor your weight and make multiple trips if necessary.

Advanced techniques and optimizations involve using multiple Doedicurus or a Quetzal with a platform saddle. You can load multiple Doedicurus onto the platform and fly them to the mountain, allowing you to gather stone even faster. Another optimization is to use a Tek Suit or a high-level Argentavis to quickly transport stone back to your base, reducing downtime.

Resource requirements and preparation include having a strong mount, a saddle for your Doedicurus, and basic survival supplies. If you are using a Pickaxe, make sure to bring a few extras in case they break. Additionally, consider bringing a Cryopod to store your Doedicurus when not in use, making it easier to transport.

Tribe and solo considerations differ slightly. In a tribe, you can assign roles, such as one player gathering stone while another provides protection. Solo players need to be more cautious and may need to rely on tamed creatures for both gathering and defense. Either way, communication and coordination are key to efficient stone farming.

Specific examples and scenarios include the mountains in the northern part of The Island map, such as the area around the Volcano or the Frozen Tooth. These regions are rich in stone nodes and are popular farming spots. Another example is the mountains in the Ragnarok map, which offer vast areas for stone farming. In these areas, you can often find multiple stone nodes close together, allowing for quick and efficient gathering.

In conclusion, farming stone in the mountains of ARK: Survival Evolved is a highly effective way to gather this essential resource. By understanding the mechanics, preparing properly, and using the right strategies, you can maximize your stone collection while minimizing risks. Whether you are playing solo or in a tribe, following these guidelines will help you become a master stone farmer in the dangerous mountainous regions of ARK.