Moonglade, the sanctuary of druids in World of Warcraft, is a haven of peace and natural beauty. Nestled deep within the heart of the Eastern Kingdoms, this hidden location is not directly connected to the standard flight paths, which means players need to know the correct methods to reach it. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to Azeroth, navigating your way to Moonglade can seem daunting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every possible route, ensuring you arrive safely and efficiently at this serene destination.
Understanding Moonglade’s Accessibility
Moonglade’s unique placement sets it apart from other zones. It’s a designated sanctuary, making it a safe haven for players. There are no hostile creatures within the main areas of the zone, allowing you to explore freely. This is particularly useful for lower-level characters needing a safe place to visit. However, its isolation means that reaching it requires a little more planning than simply hopping on a gryphon.
The zone is particularly important during the annual Lunar Festival, where quests and activities are focused around the moonwells and celestial celebrations. Many players will find themselves needing to travel to Moonglade during this event, so learning the various routes is advantageous.
The Most Common Route: Through the Timbermaw Hold Tunnel
The most frequently used and perhaps the easiest route to Moonglade for most players is through the Timbermaw Hold tunnel. This path involves navigating a specific area within Felwood and Winterspring.
Entering Timbermaw Hold
Timbermaw Hold is a neutral territory inhabited by the Timbermaw furbolgs. The tunnel connecting Felwood to Winterspring and, ultimately, Moonglade is located within this territory.
To reach the entrance from Felwood, head north towards the zone’s northern border. You’ll find the entrance to Timbermaw Hold (coordinates approximately 53, 91) carved into the mountainside. From Winterspring, travel south until you find the southern entrance (coordinates approximately 50, 8).
Navigating the Tunnel
The Timbermaw Hold tunnel is a long, winding passageway. Be aware that Timbermaw furbolgs inhabit the tunnel, and their initial disposition is hostile. However, these furbolgs are neutral, and their faction standing can be improved through questing.
The first time you travel through, you’ll likely need to either fight your way through or sneak past them. As you proceed deeper into the tunnel, it opens into a larger cavern. Continue through the cavern until you reach the exit leading into Winterspring.
From Winterspring to Moonglade
Once you exit Timbermaw Hold in Winterspring, you’re only a short distance from Moonglade. Head directly west from the tunnel exit. You’ll notice a distinct change in the environment as you approach Moonglade. The snow-covered landscape of Winterspring gives way to lush greenery and a noticeable increase in ambient light. Look for a small passage leading into the mountains. This passage is the entrance to Moonglade. (Coordinates approximately 34, 44).
For Druids: The Moonglade Teleport
Druids possess a unique and incredibly convenient method of reaching Moonglade: the Teleport: Moonglade spell. This spell becomes available to Druids at a relatively low level, typically around level 10.
Learning Teleport: Moonglade
The Teleport: Moonglade spell is learned from Druid trainers located in major cities or Druid enclaves. Visit a Druid trainer and select “Learn” to acquire the spell.
Using Teleport: Moonglade
Once you’ve learned the spell, simply cast it. After a short casting time, you will be instantly transported to the center of Moonglade, near the main town of Nighthaven. This is the fastest and most efficient way for Druids to travel to Moonglade.
Alliance Route: From Darnassus
For Alliance players, specifically those aligned with the Night Elves, a more direct route exists from their capital city, Darnassus.
Reaching Rut’theran Village
First, you need to travel to Rut’theran Village. This village is located on an island off the coast of Teldrassil, the starting zone for Night Elves. You can reach Rut’theran Village by taking a hippogryph from Darnassus. The hippogryph platform is located on the outskirts of the city.
Taking the Boat to Auberdine
Once in Rut’theran Village, look for the boat that travels to Auberdine in Darkshore. This boat will take you to the mainland of Kalimdor.
Traveling to Felwood and Timbermaw Hold
From Auberdine, travel north through Darkshore and then east into Ashenvale. Continue east through Ashenvale until you reach Felwood. From Felwood, follow the directions outlined earlier in the “The Most Common Route” section to reach Timbermaw Hold and then Moonglade.
This route is longer than the Druid teleport but serves as a viable option for Alliance characters who wish to experience the journey on foot or by mount.
Horde Route: From Orgrimmar
Horde players can also reach Moonglade, although the journey is slightly more involved.
Traveling to Ashenvale
From Orgrimmar, take the flight path to Astranaar in Ashenvale. This is the closest Horde-controlled settlement to Felwood.
Navigating Ashenvale and Felwood
From Astranaar, travel east through Ashenvale until you reach the border with Felwood. Be cautious, as Ashenvale can be a contested zone with Alliance players.
Through Timbermaw Hold
Once in Felwood, follow the directions outlined earlier in the “The Most Common Route” section to reach Timbermaw Hold and then Moonglade.
Alternative Routes and Considerations
While the methods described above are the most common, there are a few other less conventional ways to reach Moonglade.
Summoning Stones and Warlock Summons
If you have a Warlock in your group, they can summon you to Moonglade using a summoning stone or their summoning spells. This requires the Warlock to be in Moonglade and have enough players to assist with the summoning.
Using Portals
Some players may offer portal services, particularly mages who can create portals to various locations. Check in major cities to see if anyone is offering a portal to Moonglade for a fee. This method relies on the availability and generosity of other players.
Gnomish Transporter Gadgetzan
Engineers with the Gnomish Transporter Gadgetzan can teleport to Gadgetzan in Tanaris. From Gadgetzan, you would then need to travel north through Un’Goro Crater, then through Winterspring, and finally into Moonglade. This route is incredibly long and dangerous, and not recommended unless you specifically wish to travel through those zones.
World Shrinker and Slow Fall
While more of a fun exploit than a reliable method, some players have used items like the World Shrinker combined with Slow Fall effects to parachute into Moonglade from high above Winterspring. This requires precise positioning and timing and is not a recommended method for serious travel.
Preparing for Your Journey
Regardless of the route you choose, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and safe journey to Moonglade.
Level Considerations
While Moonglade itself is a sanctuary, the surrounding zones, particularly Felwood and Winterspring, can be dangerous for low-level characters. It is recommended to be at least level 50 before attempting to travel through these zones alone. Consider bringing a higher-level friend or joining a group for protection.
Supplies
Stock up on potions, bandages, and food before embarking on your journey. You may encounter hostile creatures along the way, and having these supplies will help you stay alive.
Mounts
Having a fast mount will significantly speed up your travel time, especially when traversing the large zones of Kalimdor. If you don’t have a mount, consider renting one from a stable master in a major city.
Avoiding Hostile Factions
Be mindful of your faction standing with the Timbermaw furbolgs. If your reputation with them is low, they will attack you on sight in Timbermaw Hold. Consider completing quests to improve your reputation before attempting to travel through the tunnel.
Exploring Moonglade: What to Expect
Once you finally arrive in Moonglade, you’ll be greeted by a stunning landscape of lush forests, tranquil moonwells, and serene waters. The zone is primarily a hub for Druids and is home to several important locations.
Nighthaven
Nighthaven is the main town in Moonglade and serves as a hub for quests, vendors, and other activities. It is located in the center of the zone.
The Shrine of Remulos
The Shrine of Remulos is a sacred site for Druids, located to the east of Nighthaven. It is a place of reflection and meditation.
The Lunar Festival
During the Lunar Festival, Moonglade becomes the focal point of the celebrations. The zone is decorated with lanterns and festive decorations, and players can participate in various quests and activities.
Learning Druid Skills
Druids can find trainers and learn new skills in Moonglade. This makes it an essential destination for Druids of all levels.
Conclusion
Reaching Moonglade requires a bit of effort, but the rewards are well worth the journey. Whether you choose to brave the Timbermaw Hold tunnel, utilize the Druid teleport, or embark on a cross-continental adventure, Moonglade offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With this guide, you are now equipped with the knowledge to navigate your way to this tranquil sanctuary and explore all that it has to offer. Enjoy your travels!
What is Moonglade and why would I want to go there?
Moonglade is a secluded sanctuary nestled deep within the heart of the Kalimdor continent in World of Warcraft. It’s a sacred place for druids and a hub for various events, including the Lunar Festival. The zone boasts stunning natural beauty, featuring lush forests, clear lakes, and celestial-themed architecture. Many players visit for its peaceful atmosphere and unique quests.
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, Moonglade offers several practical benefits. Druids can learn new abilities and complete class-specific quests there. All players can participate in the Lunar Festival, an annual event with unique rewards and activities. The zone also serves as a neutral ground where Horde and Alliance players can coexist peacefully, making it a convenient meeting point for cross-faction interactions (where permitted).
What are the main methods for traveling to Moonglade?
The primary methods for reaching Moonglade involve taking portals or utilizing flight paths. Druids possess a unique advantage with their ability to teleport directly to Moonglade using the “Teleport: Moonglade” spell, learned early in their training. Non-druids can typically access Moonglade through portals located in specific cities or by flying to the zone via a flight path.
For Alliance players, a portal to Moonglade exists in Darnassus, located on Teldrassil. Horde players can find a portal in Thunder Bluff, located on the Mulgore plateau. Alternatively, both factions can fly to Nighthaven, the main town in Moonglade, from various flight points across Kalimdor. Specific starting points will vary based on character level and unlocked flight paths.
Is there a level requirement for traveling to Moonglade?
While there isn’t a strict level requirement to enter Moonglade, it’s generally recommended to be at least level 20. This is because the surrounding zones leading to Moonglade, such as Felwood and Winterspring, contain enemies that can pose a significant challenge to lower-level characters. Successfully navigating these areas often requires some degree of combat proficiency.
Furthermore, while the central town of Nighthaven is a sanctuary, venturing outside its boundaries can expose players to hostile creatures. Lower-level characters might find it difficult to complete quests or explore the zone fully without the assistance of higher-level players or allies. Reaching Moonglade at a slightly higher level ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience.
How can Druids travel to Moonglade more easily?
Druids have a significant advantage when it comes to traveling to Moonglade due to the “Teleport: Moonglade” spell. This ability is learned early in their training and allows them to instantly teleport to the zone, bypassing the need to travel through potentially dangerous territories or rely on flight paths. It is an incredibly convenient tool for druids.
Beyond the teleport spell, druids also benefit from their shapeshifting abilities, such as Travel Form, which increases their movement speed. This can be helpful for traversing the surrounding areas of Moonglade if they choose to explore beyond Nighthaven. Their connection to nature and the zone’s lore further enhances their experience within Moonglade.
What are some common challenges when traveling to Moonglade, and how can I overcome them?
One common challenge when traveling to Moonglade, particularly for lower-level characters, is navigating the surrounding zones, such as Felwood and Winterspring. These zones contain aggressive creatures that can easily overwhelm unprepared players. Careful planning and awareness of your surroundings are crucial for a safe passage.
To overcome these challenges, consider traveling with a group or enlisting the help of a higher-level player. Alternatively, sticking to the roads and avoiding unnecessary encounters can minimize the risk of attracting unwanted attention. Utilizing stealth abilities (if available) can also be helpful for circumventing dangerous areas. Consider using flight paths to completely avoid risky zones.
Are there any specific quests or activities in Moonglade that I should be aware of?
Moonglade is renowned for hosting the annual Lunar Festival, a celebration of the triumph over an ancient evil. During this event, players can participate in various activities, such as collecting coins, lighting fireworks, and completing quests related to the zone’s lore. The Lunar Festival offers unique rewards and achievements, making it a popular destination for players of all levels.
In addition to the Lunar Festival, Moonglade also features class-specific quests for druids, allowing them to learn new abilities and deepen their connection to the zone. The zone is also a key location for certain professions, such as herbalism, due to the abundance of rare herbs found within its borders. Exploring Moonglade can reveal hidden treasures and secrets for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
What should I do once I arrive in Moonglade?
Upon arriving in Moonglade, the first thing you should do is familiarize yourself with the main hub, Nighthaven. Here, you’ll find vendors, quest givers, and a peaceful atmosphere. Take some time to explore the town and identify the key locations and NPCs that will be relevant to your goals. You can also bind your hearthstone to the inn for easy return trips.
Next, consider your reason for visiting Moonglade. If you are a druid, seek out the trainers and quest givers to advance your class progression. If you are visiting during the Lunar Festival, participate in the available activities and collect coins. If you are simply exploring, venture out into the surrounding areas and discover the hidden wonders of Moonglade. Remember to be mindful of the creatures and dangers that lurk beyond Nighthaven’s sanctuary.