If you wish to head west (left of Grimwern Woodlands), then you must do the following:
2. Climb the ladder and throw the rock across the gap where the sign state 'Success is just a stone's throw away'.
3. Ascend the the ladder where the spike door closed. Defeat the Shrakk Torr (giant bug) and step on the pressure plate near the treasure chest.
4. Head down and pull the lever where the Giant Snail is. Once pulled, head north-east to the closed mine door.
5. Enter the area with the mine door and use the skull key.
6. Attain the Earth Essence.
7. Head west to the 'Peaceful Pool' and go under water. Pull the lever and head south to the Nest of Arachnids.
8. Defeat the Giant Spiders and search the altar.
9. Return west and the door blocking your exit will now be open.
* Only points 5 to 8 are required to journey west (escape Grimwern Woodlands). However, points 1 to 5 are still important to continue your quest.