The old Skyrim climb
60% of the time it works EVERY time!
Who hasn't been there? Staring up at a towering, seemingly impassable mountain in Skyrim, knowing the long, winding path around will add hours to your journey. Well, my fellow Dragonborn, I'm here to share my ultimate secret weapon for bypassing those frustrating detours: the legendary Skyrim horse climbing glitch. It’s a trick that’s been part of my gameplay for years, and trust me, it’s a game-changer! My personal motto? When In Doubt: Skyrim Climb! This isn't really a 'glitch' in the traditional sense, but rather a unique quirk of Skyrim's physics engine that allows your trusty steed to scale surfaces a human character simply can't. The horse's hitboxes, combined with their ability to move on surprisingly steep inclines, create a pathway where none seems to exist. For me, it's not cheating; it's resourceful exploration! So, how do you perform this magical vertical ascent? It's all about technique and a little patience. Here’s my tried-and-true method for making that horse defy gravity: Angle is Everything: Don't try to charge straight up. Instead, approach the mountain face at a slight angle. Think of it as a diagonal climb, not a purely vertical one. Gentle Nudges: While moving forward (W on PC, or push the stick up), gently steer your horse into the mountain face. You'll want to be continually pressing forward, making tiny adjustments left and right to find purchase. Patience and Persistence: Your horse might stumble or slide down a bit. Don't give up! Keep trying different angles and small movements. Sometimes it feels like you're wiggling your way up, but eventually, you'll find a path. Look for Jagged Edges: Smooth, sheer cliffs are often impossible. Look for areas with more rocky, jagged textures. These provide more 'grip' for your horse to latch onto. Why do I swear by this method? Oh, the time it saves! I've bypassed entire valleys, reached secluded quest markers in minutes, and discovered breathtaking hidden views that are otherwise inaccessible without hours of trekking. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction in watching your horse defy logic, effortlessly trotting up what should be an impossible incline. It definitely adds to the fun and unpredictability of exploration. Now, for some personal tips for maximizing your success. Firstly, always save your game before attempting a major climb! You will fall. Often. Sometimes gloriously, sometimes hilariously. Losing progress is the worst part. Secondly, while any horse can perform this trick, some are definitely better. I've found Shadowmere to be an absolute beast for climbing, and Arvak (from the Dawnguard DLC) is also incredibly agile on steep terrain. Their unique properties seem to give them a slight edge. Remember that classic line, "60% of the time, it works every time"? That pretty much sums up the horse climbing glitch. It's not foolproof, and you'll still encounter truly impassable areas. But for those times when you're stuck, looking for a shortcut, or just want to see if you can get up there, the Skyrim horse climb is your best friend. It’s an essential skill for any true adventurer in Tamriel, turning frustrating obstacles into exciting new pathways.
