
Mamut Copper Mine Lake Viewpoint
An abandoned copper mine transformed into a striking, albeit hazardous, turquoise lake with panoramic hill views. Adventure awaits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best road conditions

Mamut Copper Mine Lake Viewpoint
Best Time
Best road conditions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An abandoned copper mine transformed into a striking, albeit hazardous, turquoise lake with panoramic hill views. Adventure awaits.
"This abandoned copper mine is a gem for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, but please enter at your own risk."

🚗 Drive Carefully
Gravel and muddy roads require caution, especially after rain. 4WD recommended.
🚫 No Swimming!
The lake water is poisonous due to mine residue. Admire from afar only.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Striking Copper Lake
Main viewpoint
An abandoned mine transformed into a surreal, often turquoise lake. A unique, albeit hazardous, natural wonder.

Panoramic Hillside Views
Surrounding hills
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of mountains and rolling hills, perfect for a challenging hike or bike ride.

A Cyclist's Challenge
Access road
The 2-3 hour climb to the viewpoint offers a rewarding training ground for cyclists and riders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Safety First
Respect the Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully
Gravel and muddy roads require caution, especially after rain. 4WD recommended.
🚫 No Swimming!
The lake water is poisonous due to mine residue. Admire from afar only.
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep this place beautiful by taking all your trash with you.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear appropriate shoes for hiking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully
Gravel and muddy roads require caution, especially after rain. 4WD recommended.
🚫 No Swimming!
The lake water is poisonous due to mine residue. Admire from afar only.
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep this place beautiful by taking all your trash with you.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear appropriate shoes for hiking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
⚠️ Enter at Your Own Risk
This is a restricted, abandoned mine. Be aware of potential hazards.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
This abandoned copper mine offers a unique, adventurous experience with striking lake views and challenging terrain for cyclists. However, visitors must be aware of safety hazards, including poisonous water and precarious roads, and the site's status as a restricted area. Concerns about litter and pollution are also noted, impacting the overall appeal.
"This abandoned copper mine is a gem for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, but please enter at your own risk. Its a restricted area with gravel and muddy roads which can be precarious during rainy days. Lakewater is poisonous, strictly no dipping. The whole area is restricted, but entry enforcement can be a bit lax. I brought my family along and they enjoyed, but I do not recommend others to bring small children. Sadly, the place has huge potential to be developed as a full-fledge tourist attraction, if only the government is willing."
Ya Seam Just a Patronym
"I love this place, next time wanna come here again, for all cyclist or rider you can training here, its about 2-3 hours climb to this place, but i don't like people throw rubbish to this place, so bad😑"
mohd azmi
"Active mine again, polis showed up and there’s a gate guard. No access."
Chris Kyler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The viewpoint is accessed via gravel and muddy roads, which can be challenging, especially during rainy seasons. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended for navigating the terrain. The journey can take 2-3 hours of climbing for cyclists and riders.
The roads are described as precarious and can be muddy, particularly after rainfall. Visitors should exercise extreme caution when driving or cycling.
Public transport options are limited for reaching this remote, abandoned mine. It's best to arrange private transport or join a tour if available.
A 4WD vehicle is strongly advised due to the unpaved and potentially muddy road conditions.
For cyclists and riders, the climb can take approximately 2-3 hours. Driving time will vary based on road conditions and starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mamut Copper Mine Lake is an abandoned and restricted area. While entry enforcement can be lax, it is not an officially designated tourist attraction, and visitors enter at their own risk.
As it's an unofficial and abandoned site, there are no set opening hours. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Some reports mention police presence and gate guards, so access may be restricted at times.
There is no official entrance fee mentioned, as it is an abandoned and restricted area. However, be aware that access might be controlled by guards or police.
Official tours are not widely advertised due to the site's restricted nature. It's recommended to check with local tour operators in the Ranau area for any available private arrangements.
Be prepared for potential access restrictions. If encountered, be respectful and inquire about the current access policy.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely not. The lakewater is poisonous due to mine residue and chemicals. Swimming or any water contact is strictly prohibited and dangerous.
You'll find a striking, often turquoise lake formed in the abandoned mine pit, surrounded by panoramic views of mountains and hills. It's a unique landscape shaped by industrial history.
While some families have visited, it's generally not recommended for small children due to the hazardous nature of the site, poisonous water, and precarious roads.
The main activities are enjoying the unique scenery, photography, and for the adventurous, hiking or cycling on the access roads.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sturdy footwear, sun protection, and a camera. Remember to pack out all your trash.
🎫 🗑️ Environmental Concerns
Unfortunately, reports indicate pollution and litter, including truck tires, left behind by visitors. This detracts from the natural beauty.
The most important thing is to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles: pack out everything you bring in and avoid contributing to litter.
The mine has left behind a legacy of potential pollution, including poisonous lake water. The surrounding area's natural resources were exploited, with local communities receiving limited benefits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴 Cyclists and Riders
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: Roads and Access
Entry enforcement at this abandoned mine can be inconsistent. While it's a restricted area, some visitors report lax enforcement, while others have encountered police and gate guards. It's crucial to understand that you are entering at your own risk. Be respectful if you encounter any authorities and be aware that access might be denied.
Planning your visit during the dry season will significantly improve road conditions and reduce the risk of getting stuck. Always check local weather forecasts before you set off. The challenging access is part of what makes this location feel so remote and adventurous.
The Dangers of the Copper Lake
Visitors are strongly advised to admire the lake from a safe distance and refrain from any activities that involve direct contact with the water. The presence of industrial waste underscores the hazardous nature of this abandoned site. It's a stark reminder of the environmental impact of mining and the importance of respecting safety guidelines in such locations.
The potential for pollution is a significant concern, with reports of litter and discarded items marring the landscape. This highlights the need for responsible tourism, even in unofficial sites. Visitors are urged to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles to help preserve the area's natural state.
Environmental Legacy and Community Impact
Today, the abandoned site faces challenges with pollution and litter, with visitors noting discarded truck tires and general waste. This environmental degradation detracts from the area's natural beauty and poses risks. The community's sentiment reflects a desire for better development and resource management, with the hope that such natural assets could be better utilized for sustainable tourism.
The potential for development as a full-fledged tourist attraction is acknowledged, but it hinges on government willingness and responsible management. Until then, visitors are encouraged to be mindful stewards of the environment, ensuring their visit doesn't add to the existing challenges.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit