About Town
Day Trips from Cooktown
Archer Point
Archer Point offers some of the most spectacular views of the coast as well as a prime coastal fishing destination. From atop the hill near the lighthouse you can gaze southwards towards the ranges of the Daintree National Park as it slopes into the Coral Sea. This is an excellent fishing destination as well with lots of coastline and so few people it presents an excellent half or full day away from it all. Head south back towards Lakelands/Daintree and look for the turn about 14kms from town or your left. Keep going for another 12kms until you reach the shoreline.
The Lions Den is a fascinating watering hole on your way down the Bloomfield Track on your way to/from Wujal Wujal and the Daintree. Like an Irish pub, history literally hangs from the roof from the gold rush days, through to modern farming, the setting is fascinating and definitely worth a stop. Have a beer or two and think back to how many others for over a century have sat and taken in the surrounds over time.
Annan River Gorge
The Annan River is one of the largest rivers in the region and can get quite a large volume of water during the wet season. A little past the Black Mountain lookout back towards Lakelands on the inland road you can find this gorge known locally as 'Little Annan'. Here the river is forced into an area only metres wide to form a powerfully flowing gorge when there has been good rainfall. For those who like exploring then tracing the banks of this gorge when it is running is a must do.
Trevethan Falls
These falls are set in the bush land east of Black Mountain. The are one of the most amazing and peaceful locations you can find in the area. Running over a ledge from over a large drop they form a great swimming hole. Exploring upstream is also a must. They are however on private property and anyone found damaging, littering or disturbing the area will be treated as trespassers. Ask around and if the locals like the look of you they might give away their secret on how to get there.
Black Mountain
Black Mountain National Park is home to an amazing imposing mountain of black granite that was formed by a freak of geology back when this area was active volcanically. 30kms south of Cooktown they present an eerie feel as you get closer towards the lookout. The look is actually down to the moss that grows on the rocks. This area has a reputation both aboriginal and modern for people disappearing. One can literally slip between the rocks and descend into the mountain never to be seen again so never go walking alone. More can be found here compliments of a story from Overlander Magazine
There doesn't have to be any introduction to this beautiful area famous for its rainforests and overall ecosystem. The magnificent rainforests run right to the beaches and the creeks and streams make for some fantastic swimming and picnic spots. There was lots of political fighting with environmentalists to have this access road built through the Bloomfield so please don't forget this is a National Park of World Heritage importance and follow the visitors code here at the Wet Tropics Management Authority
Endeavour Falls
Endeavour Falls lie 32kms north of Cooktown on your way towards Hopevale and Laura. They are formed from the upper reaches of the Endeavour and offer a great spot for lunch with full facilities available. While not so high this waterfall is very wide and nearby parklands are quiet and shady. The area is private property and you will need to stop at the office/Store before proceeding down to the falls.
Isabella Falls
Turning left off McIvor Rd into Battlecamp Road out of Cooktown after you have passed Endeavour Falls you can find these nice refreshing falls in the middle of the ranges in the before crossing the Normanby River. If you are travelling north via the Lakefield National Park then you will cross these falls as part of your journey. During the wet season they can flow an impressive wide display of rushing water that can even make things too turbulent for swimming. Most visitors however experience a gentle flow and a nice break from the red dust that seems to permeate everything north of this area.
Further north of Cooktown you have the community of Hopevale. It is a large aboriginal reserve and covers from north of the Endeavour River to past Cape Flattery. It is home to the Guugu Yimithirr speaking Buma clan. Alcohol restrictions apply in this area so do not bring any amount exceeding the limits. This area is exclusive and pristine countryside so is best seen by taking one of the aboriginal run tours listed on our tours page
Elim Beach
Elim Beach is a beautiful white sand beach with reefs offshore about 20kms further on past Hopevale. You will need to stop off in Hopevale and purchase a permit from the Council Office however this is only $10 and gives you access to an area which is without doubt one of the most beautiful beaches in Queensland. There is a area of coloured sands as well which makes for some interesting exploring and spectacular scenery for photographers.
Lakefield National Park is one of the most amazing and diverse National Parks in the country as well as being Queensland's second biggest. We are all familiar with 'The Bush Tucker Man' and 'The Crocodile Hunter'. Most of their best stories come from this area so whether just for a day visit or for many weeks for you more hardened campers a visit is a must. If you are heading north to the Cape you can choose to come via Lakefield on either or both your journey legs.
