Anaconda Mine: See This Abandoned Open Pit Copper Mine In Yerington
3 minute read | contains affiliate links
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Yerington, Nevada, lies a hidden gem that takes visitors on a journey through time.
Anaconda Mine, with its rich history and captivating allure, offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking a glimpse into the region’s mining legacy.
In this post, I take you to Weed Heights, an unincorporated community adjacent to Yerington, where the miners and their families once called home.
There, you’ll find the viewing platform where you can see the near entirety of the water-filled pit and on the way, get a distant view of the former processing plant.
Let’s get into it!
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Anaconda Mine History & Stats
Anaconda Mine holds a significant place in Nevada’s mining history. Originally established in the mid 20th century, it played a pivotal role in the copper mining boom that shaped the region.
The mine was named after the Anaconda Copper Mining Company, who purchased the site in 1942. They were one of the most prominent mining companies of the time.
Anaconda’s initial 26-year run took place between 1952 and 1978, with secondary milling and processing until the year 2000. At which point, the newest owner, Arimetco, declared bankruptcy and abandoned the site.
During its run, Anaconda Mine produced:
1,744,237,000 pounds of copper
103,834,000 tons of oxide ore
58,589,000 tons of sulfide ore
189,034,000 tons of waste
The total market value from its operation is estimated to be $765,504,000, with total net profits exceeding $200-million. A staggering amount for the time.
At its peak, Anaconda employed 450 people, operated six-days per week and produced 13,000 tons of ore to the crushers daily.
Directions to Anaconda Mine
To see the water-filled open pit, you’ll need to make your way to the small Nevada town of Yerington and then up to the even smaller community of Weed Heights.
Much like other mining sites, such as Bodie, Weed Heights was built directly adjacent to the site for the purpose of housing miners and other employees.
Simply typing, “Anaconda Copper Mine”, into your GPS of choice will get you there. The main road leading to Weed Heights is just off the highway (US-95A).
After turning onto the road, continue straight. Keep in mind that during winter, this road is known to be icy at times.
About halfway up the road, prior to driving under the overpass, you’ll see the old processing plant on your right. There’s a large dirt/gravel area to pull into.
The buildings are gated off and unfortunately there are no tours or public access offered, so you’ll have to settle for admiring them from a distance.
From here, continue up the road until you reach a stop sign. Turn left and soon thereafter, you’ll see the fenced-in viewing platform with a small parking area on your left.
Anaconda Mine Viewing Area
In front of the entrance to the viewing platform are two informational boards detailing the history and production of Anaconda Mine.
To see the pit, continue past the signs along the dirt path between the fences. There’s lots of barbwire here so watch where you put your hands.
From the viewing area, you’ll be able to see the pit (or lake, as some locals refer to it as) in all its glory, including the hauling roads circulating around it.
Here are some interesting stats of the pit:
It’s one mile long
A half mile wide
810 feet deep
Water level is approximately 450 feet deep
To some, it’s just a giant hole with water in it. For those who appreciate mining/local history, or who enjoy roadside stops like this, it’s a fascinating sight.
Unfortunately, this is all you’ll be able to legally view. There’s no public access to the haul roads or even in the perimeter of the mine for safety reasons.
All told, Anaconda Copper Mine makes for a quick but fascinating stop for those traveling through or for locals who want a glimpse into the area’s past.
Travel safe, travel responsibly,
Kevin
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