Mines View Park | Baguio

Information

Landmark: Mines View Park
City: Baguio
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

Mines View Park, Baguio, Philippines, Asia

Mines View Park is a prominent tourist destination in Baguio City, situated on a ridge at the northeastern outskirts of the city. It is primarily known for its observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the Cordillera Mountains and the abandoned gold and copper mines of Itogon.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a multi-level stone observation deck protected by iron railings. The landscape is characterized by steep terrain, winding stone stairs, and dense clusters of pine trees. The entrance area is heavily commercialized, filled with stalls, while the viewing area provides an expansive vista of the Amburayan Valley and the decommissioned mining town of Benguet.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Mines View, Baguio, 2600 Benguet.

Access: Located at the end of Outlook Drive.

Transport: Accessible via jeepneys labeled "Mines View" from the Baguio City Public Market or Session Road. Taxis and private vehicles are common, though parking is highly limited.

Entry: Admission to the park is free.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established to overlook the copper and gold mines operated by Benguet Corporation (formerly Benguet Consolidated) during the American colonial period and throughout the 20th century. While the mines are no longer active, the site serves as a reminder of Baguio's history as a mining town. Ecologically, it sits on a high-altitude ridge, though much of the immediate area has been developed for tourism and residential use.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation Deck: The main attraction for viewing the mountain range and old mines.

Traditional Photography: Visitors can rent traditional Igorot costumes (tapis, bahag, and headdresses) or take photos with St. Bernard dogs and pink-maned horses for a fee.

Wishing Well: A small well where visitors toss coins for luck.

Souvenir Shopping: Extensive stalls sell silver jewelry, woven fabrics, wood carvings, and local delicacies like strawberry jam and peanut brittle.

Succulent and Flower Market: A large selection of highland plants and flowers are available for purchase at the park entrance.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park features public restrooms (fee-based), numerous food kiosks, and a pavilion. The terrain involves several sets of stairs, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. 5G cellular coverage is generally stable.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open daily, typically from 05:00 to 20:00. The best time to visit is in the early morning to avoid the thick fog that often rolls in by mid-afternoon and to secure a spot on the observation deck before the heavy tourist crowds arrive.

Facts & Legends

Local children are often seen at the base of the observation deck, where tourists used to toss coins for them to catch-a practice that has been discouraged in recent years for safety and welfare reasons.