The primary trade road connecting the settlements of the Sword Coast, running east from Saltmarsh through Phandalin and extending into the wilderness. The Triboar Trail is the economic and logistical spine of the region, carrying merchants, caravans, and travelers. It is also a place of danger — vulnerable to ambush and home to predators and raiders.

The Opening Encounter — Session A01

The Forge Wardens' campaign began on the Triboar Trail when a goblin ambush struck a caravan carrying mining equipment for Gundren Rockseeker. Roland was escorting the wagon, while Kavu was standing beside his own destroyed cart. The ambush brought them together with Jonah, a pale star-eyed elf from Saltmarsh, setting the entire chain of events in motion.

During interrogation of a captured goblin named Groznak, the party learned that goblin raids had been ongoing along the trail. Groznak revealed the location of the goblin lair — a large cave five miles north of the road — and disclosed that the goblins had captured Pip Stonehill from another wagon and were holding her captive.

The Route

The trail stretches across open country and through areas of mixed wilderness. Travel time between settlements varies but is generally measured in days. The path is well-enough marked for regular caravans, though travelers remain vulnerable to surprise attacks and predator encounters. Multiple waypoints and settlements lie along its length, allowing for rest and resupply.

Dangers

The trail has proven home to goblin ambushes, wilderness predators (including the roc encountered near Conyberry), and other hazards. Travelers rarely move alone; merchants typically organize into caravans for mutual protection. Despite the risks, the trail remains active because the alternatives are worse — moving goods by sea is limited, and alternative overland routes are longer and more dangerous.

Strategic Importance

Control of the Triboar Trail is strategically important to the Sword Coast economy and security. The goblin raids disrupted legitimate trade and contributed to Phandalin's struggles. The elimination of the goblin lair and the clearing of major threats along the trail have helped restore some stability, though dangers persist.