The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is filled with intriguing side quests that challenge players to solve environmental riddles scattered throughout Hyrule. Among these, the Secret of the Snowy Peaks shrine quest stands out for its unique shadow mechanics and scenic mountain location. Completing this puzzle allows adventurers to reveal and unlock the hidden Suma Sahma Shrine.
Finding the Quest Location
To begin this quest, players must navigate to the snowy region near Mount Granajh and Daval Peak in the Gerudo Highlands. Upon exploring the area, you will find a small ruined wooden cabin containing a researcher's diary called the Mountain Peak Log. Reading this log initiates the quest and provides crucial hints regarding a mysterious glowing pedestal situated on the nearby cliffside.
Understanding the Cold Shadow Riddle
The journal entries instruct the player to cast a cold shadow onto the core of the pedestal when it begins to glow. The pedestal activates and glows briefly each afternoon, specifically between 16:00 and 17:30 in-game time. Solving the riddle requires placing an object made of ice or snow between the sun and the pedestal so its shadow covers the center of the structure.
How to Cast the Shadow Correctly
Players can complete this task by lifting a snowball found around the mountain hut and standing at the edge of the cliff as the sun aligns. Alternatively, using the Cryonis rune on the small puddle near the pedestal can also create an ice pillar that casts the required shadow. Ensure that you unequip any fire-based weapons so your snowball does not melt before the pedestal fully activates.
Unlocking Suma Sahma Shrine
Once the shadow hits the center of the glowing pedestal, the mechanism triggers and causes the Suma Sahma Shrine to rise from the snow. Inside the shrine, players receive a blessing chest containing a valuable reward alongside the Spirit Orb. Completing this trial adds another fast-travel point and brings players closer to fully mastering the vast world of Hyrule.
