Alan Wake 2: How to open the gate in the Cauldron Lake parking lot? Alan Wake 2 guide, walkthrough
Next to the Cauldron Lake parking lot in the Alan Wake 2 game is a locked gate with a high fence. This tutorial page explains how to open the gate and how to unlock the shortcut to the store and crime scene.
Last update: 27 October 2023
During the exploration of the Cauldron Lake region in Alan Wake 2, playing as Saga you may come across a closed gate in the forest near the parking lot. In our guide, we explain whether you can open the gate immediately and how to unlock the passage permanently to be able to reach the western areas of the map faster.
Location of the gate
- After you play the prologue and Return 1 begins, Saga and Casey will reach the location called Cauldron Lake.
- Next to the parking lot where the FBI agents left the car, you will find a path heading south, through the forest, leading to the closed gate shown in the picture. You can't open it right away and you can't force it open or destroy the padlock. The high fence also prevents climbing.
Acquisition and use of the shortcut key
- You need to progress further in the game and complete all the steps related to the analysis of traces at the murder site - we described them on a separate page, titled Examine the Murder Site.
- Deputy Thornton, present at the crime scene, will give the main character the key to the shortcut at the end of the inspection.
- Head east with the key. By the road there is a second closed gate, shown in the picture. Interact with it and choose the shortcut key from the list of quest items you possess.
- Go down the winding path, passing the FBC mobile command center on the way. You will reach the first gate from the other side and now you can open it. This action will unlock a permanent shortcut that will enable you to travel faster between the parking lot and the murder site and other locations in this part of the map in subsequent visits to Cauldron Lake (including: General Store.