How to Get to Northrend from Orgrimmar in WoW – World of Warcraft (WoW) is one of the most expansive MMORPGs, offering a multitude of zones to explore. One of the most iconic locations is Northrend, introduced in the Wrath of the Lich King expansion. Whether you’re a new player or returning adventurer, knowing how to get to Northrend from Orgrimmar is essential for progressing through quests, dungeons, and raids. This guide will explain step-by-step how to make the journey efficiently and offer tips to ensure a smooth adventure.

About Northrend and Its Importance in WoW

Northrend is the frozen continent in WoW, home to the infamous Lich King and many pivotal events in Warcraft lore. It’s packed with zones suited for characters from level 68 to 80, including the starting areas of Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord. Players journey to Northrend for its quests, dungeons like Utgarde Keep and The Nexus, and raids such as Naxxramas and Icecrown Citadel.

Before you can experience all that Northrend has to offer, you’ll need to know how to get there from Orgrimmar, the Horde capital.

Requirements to Access Northrend

Before heading to Northrend, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• Character Level: Your character should be at least level 68 to begin questing in Northrend. While you can travel there at a lower level, mobs and quests may be too challenging.
• Expansions Installed: Make sure you have the Wrath of the Lich King expansion activated on your account.
• Horde Affiliation: This guide focuses on Horde players traveling from Orgrimmar. If you’re Alliance, you’ll need to start from Stormwind instead.

Primary Ways to Travel from Orgrimmar to Northrend

There are two main zones to enter Northrend from Orgrimmar: Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord. Each offers a unique aesthetic, questline, and leveling experience. Here’s how to reach both:

1. Travel to Borean Tundra

Borean Tundra is one of the two starting zones in Northrend. It’s an icy expanse teeming with wildlife, the Tuskarr people, and the Scourge. To get there:

Locate the Zeppelin Tower in Orgrimmar:
Head to the western side of Orgrimmar, near the Valley of Strength.
The Zeppelin Tower is easy to spot, as it’s a tall wooden structure with two landing platforms.

Board the Zeppelin to Warsong Hold:
Look for the zeppelin with a signpost that mentions “Borean Tundra.” This zeppelin will take you directly to Warsong Hold, the Horde hub in Borean Tundra.
If you’re unsure, talk to the goblin NPC at the base of the zeppelin tower. They’ll confirm which zeppelin is heading to Northrend.

Arrive at Warsong Hold:
Once you disembark, you’ll be at Warsong Hold, a massive fortress overseen by Garrosh Hellscream. From here, you can begin quests in Borean Tundra or explore the surrounding area.

2. Travel to Howling Fjord

Howling Fjord offers a more rugged and Viking-inspired aesthetic. It’s home to the Vrykul, an ancient race integral to Northrend’s storyline. To travel here:

Reach the Zeppelin Tower in Tirisfal Glades:
Unlike Borean Tundra, there isn’t a direct route from Orgrimmar to Howling Fjord. You’ll need to travel to Tirisfal Glades, near the Undercity.
Use the zeppelin from Orgrimmar to Tirisfal Glades. The tower is located just outside the Undercity entrance.

Board the Zeppelin to Vengeance Landing:
Once you arrive at Tirisfal Glades, look for the zeppelin heading to Howling Fjord. Like the Borean Tundra route, a goblin NPC will confirm the destination if you’re unsure.

Arrive at Vengeance Landing:
Disembark at Vengeance Landing, the Horde’s foothold in Howling Fjord. This area is rich with lore and serves as a gateway to Northrend’s eastern zones.

Choosing Between Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord

Both starting zones have their unique features, and your choice will depend on your preferences:

Borean Tundra:
Offers more open terrain and straightforward quest hubs.
Warsong Hold serves as a central hub with easy access to quests and vendors.
Home to The Nexus, a popular dungeon.

Howling Fjord:
Features a more immersive, story-driven experience.
The landscape is more forested and mountainous, offering a different aesthetic.
Leads to dungeons like Utgarde Keep and connections to Grizzly Hills.
Many players opt to quest in both zones for maximum experience and rewards.

Alternative Methods to Reach Northrend

If you want to explore different routes or have already unlocked certain conveniences, here are some alternatives:

1. Mage Portals

If you’re in a hurry and know a friendly mage, ask them to create a portal to Dalaran. Dalaran is the central hub city in Northrend, offering portals to various zones, including Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord.

2. Dalaran Hearthstone

Once you’ve reached Dalaran through quests or other means, you can set your hearthstone there for future convenience.

3. Dungeon Finder

Players at level 68 or higher can use the Dungeon Finder tool to queue for Northrend dungeons like Utgarde Keep or The Nexus. Once you complete a dungeon, you’ll be teleported to its entrance, effectively placing you in Northrend.

Preparing for Northrend

Before setting out, ensure you’re ready for the challenges ahead:

• Upgrade Your Gear: Northrend introduces tougher enemies, so make sure your armor and weapons are up to date. Visit the Auction House or craft gear to prepare.
• Stock Up on Supplies: Bring plenty of potions, food, and repair kits. Northrend’s zones are vast, and you might not encounter a vendor for long stretches.
• Clean Out Your Inventory: Northrend’s quests often reward unique items. Free up space in your bags to avoid missing out on loot.
• Train Your Professions: Northrend is rich with new resources for gathering and crafting professions. Make sure your profession skill levels are high enough to benefit from these materials.

Exploring Northrend: What to Expect

Once you’ve arrived in Northrend, there’s plenty to see and do. Key zones and activities include:

• Dragonblight: Uncover the lore of the Dragon Aspects and battle the Scourge.
• Grizzly Hills: A picturesque zone with engaging quests and beautiful scenery.
• Icecrown Glacier: The heart of the Lich King’s domain, culminating in epic raid battles.
• Dungeons, raids, and PvP opportunities abound in Northrend, making it a pivotal part of your WoW journey.

Tips for First-Time Travelers

• Follow Quest Chains: Northrend’s zones are designed with story-driven quest chains that guide you through the content. Stick to these for an optimal leveling experience.
• Travel Between Zones: Don’t hesitate to move between Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord if quests become too challenging or monotonous.
• Join a Guild: Northrend’s group quests and dungeons are more enjoyable with friends. Joining a guild can provide support and make leveling faster.
• Keep an Eye on PvP: If you’re on a PvP server, be prepared for skirmishes with Alliance players. Travel cautiously and stay aware of your surroundings.

Conclusion

Getting to Northrend from Orgrimmar is an exciting step in your World of Warcraft adventure. Whether you choose the icy expanse of Borean Tundra or the rugged beauty of Howling Fjord, you’ll find plenty of challenges, rewards, and memorable moments. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, prepare adequately, and enjoy your journey through one of WoW’s most iconic expansions!