Mountaintops of the Giants is one of the most challenging and rewarding areas in Elden Ring. Its harsh, snowy environment is packed with tough enemies and tricky terrain, but it also holds a wealth of hidden treasures for the keen explorer. Whether you’re gearing up for late-game challenges or simply want to discover every secret the Lands Between has to offer, these 23 items scattered across the Mountaintops are well worth the effort.

As a player who’s spent many hours traversing this frozen expanse, I’ve compiled a list of essential and rare finds that can help improve your build or just give you an edge in combat. Let’s dive in.

1. Dragon Slayer Greatsword

Found near the giant corpse at the peak, this colossal weapon delivers incredible damage and stunning visual flair. It’s a trophy for those brave enough to explore the highest points.

2. Erdtree’s Favor

This talisman boosts your stamina and equip load, critical for surviving longer in the area’s punishing fights.

3. Bolt of Gransax

A legendary spear that summons powerful lightning strikes, perfect for anyone focusing on Faith builds.

4. Cracked Crystal Tear

Used to upgrade Sacred Seals, these are often hidden in caves and behind fragile walls throughout the region.

5. Smithing Stones (High Level)

Needed for late-game weapon upgrades, you’ll find large deposits around the snowy cliffs and caverns.

6. Dragon Heart

A rare crafting material dropped by specific draconic foes lurking in the area.

7. Flame of the Redmanes

A unique consumable that temporarily boosts fire damage—hidden in a guarded fortress.

8. Sacred Flask Shard

These shards increase your flask uses and can be found in secret side paths or guarded by minibosses.

9. Somber Smithing Stones

Essential for upgrading unique weapons, scattered throughout the icy caves.

10. Talisman of the Unseen

Grants increased stealth, perfect for avoiding overwhelming encounters in the Mountaintops.

11. Giant’s Set Pieces

Armor fragments from the giants themselves, providing high poise and protection against physical damage.

12. Colossal Weapon Materials

Required for upgrading ultra-heavy weapons, hidden in some of the toughest enemy camps.

13. Ashes of War: Lightning Slash

A powerful weapon skill that adds lightning damage, often dropped by enemy knights.

14. Dragon Scale

A rare crafting component used to enhance certain dragon-related gear.

15. Runic Feather

Boosts jump height, useful for navigating difficult terrain.

16. Erdtree’s Favor +1

An upgraded version of the talisman that can be found after defeating a challenging mini-boss.

17. Magic Glintstone Shard

For sorcery upgrades, scattered in hidden areas and guarded by spellcasters.

18. Elden Ring Items for Sale

While exploring the Mountaintops, some NPC vendors offer rare Elden Ring items for sale that you won’t find anywhere else. Keep an eye out for these traders—they can provide valuable upgrades or consumables.

19. Frozen Tears

A special crafting material used in some of the most powerful cold-related weapon enhancements.

20. Rune Fragments

Small runes that, when combined, can be exchanged for larger rune amounts or special items.

21. Blessing of the Erdtree

A rare healing item hidden deep in the region’s caverns.

22. Best site to buy Elden Ring Runes

If farming runes in the Mountaintops proves too challenging, there are reliable sources available outside the game where you can acquire runes. Having extra runes handy helps you upgrade your gear quickly and stay competitive in tough battles.

23. Meteorite Staff

A staff favored by intelligence builds, found on a hidden ledge overlooking a cliff.

Exploring the Mountaintops of the Giants isn’t just about brute force—it requires patience, careful navigation, and a sharp eye for secrets. These 23 items will help you bolster your character and prepare for the challenges ahead. Whether you’re upgrading weapons with Smithing Stones or picking up rare talismans and Ashes of War, this region is full of valuable loot that rewards thorough exploration.

Keep in mind that acquiring some of these items might mean facing powerful foes multiple times. If you’re low on resources or runes, remember that the best site to buy Elden Ring runes can be a helpful shortcut to keep your build progressing without excessive grinding. And don’t forget to check out Elden Ring items for sale by in-game merchants, as sometimes they stock gear you won’t want to miss.