Rochelle visited Cooktown for the first time in April 2021 for her Birthday weekend (unfortunately Sarah couldn't come because of being a shift worker).
It is amazing just how much there is to do in the area, and how beautiful it is. Over the two days Rochelle spent in the area, she visited four waterfalls. We have put together this guide for anyone who like us, loves chasing waterfalls.
Also check out our blog on Mount Cook if you are wanting a more challenging hiking experience in Cooktown.
Endeavour Falls
Endeavour Falls is located just 25 minutes, or 31.4 km north of Cooktown. Access is via the Endeavour Falls Tourist Park. There is no need to stay at the park to access the waterfall, the owners are very welcoming and pleasant. There is a collection bin at the start of the park for donations which is a small token for being able to view the falls.
There have been sightings of crocodiles and there are warning signs. The falls are not suitable for swimming, apparently they are also not suitable for flying drones as Rochele lost her drone in these very waters (yes the photo above is the last photo from the final flight). It is still worthwhile checking out. The walk is less than 200 meters and can be easily accomplished in thongs (no need to get all dressed up for the occasion).
Isabella Falls
Isabella Falls is located 32 minutes drive or 41.3 km north of Cooktown. It is best to visit both Endeavour and Isabella in the same trip. There is quite literally no hiking or walking involved in this waterfall, you drive over the top of the waterfall, park your car on the side of the road and you are there.
I am not sure if you are able to swim here, I didn’t.
Trevathan Falls
This waterfall is incredible. It is located about 30 minutes or 32 km south of Cooktown. I would strongly recommend only visiting if you have a 4WD. Whilst I saw an AWD on the track, I personally wouldn’t be driving there is an AWD unless it had plenty of clearance.
There are multiple creek crossings to get to the trail and the road closer to the track also becomes very “dodgy”. You could always park your car and walk in.
The walk itself is not difficult, approximately 800 meters from where you park your car. You do have to walk up and down a steep section, but the pain is short lived when you arrive very quickly at your destination.
The coordinate for the start of the trail is 15°40’54.5″S 145°16’43.2″E and there is no reception so plug it into your maps before you go.
Below is a photo of the 4WD track to the falls.
From the dirt patch which is the carpark, follow the dirt track upwards on foot
Take a left at these trees and continue upwards
Keep following the track until you veer right and down to the falls
Home Rule Falls
This was my favourite waterfall in the circuit. It is located in Rossville which is around 35 minutes or 41 km south of Cooktown. I tracked just under 5 km return on this one, it took us about 45 minutes each way. The group I visited with were not keen hikers and were by no means estatic by the many ups and downs on this track (some a little steep). I myself was fine with the ups and downs but really didn’t enjoy walking through a slosh pit of mud up to knee height where a waterpipe had burst.
However, the waterfalls themselves are well worth the ups, downs and mud bath. They are stunning and very unique with two separate falls flowing into one. You can swim here and the water was beautiful and clear.
The coordinate for the start of the trail is 15°45’00.6″S 145°17’30.1″E and there is no reception so plug it into your maps before you go.
The start of the track is well marked:
While you are South of Cooktown also check out
The Lions Den Pub
Famous pub, great atmosphere, and you can write your name on the walls. The also have great camping facilities by a creek.
Archer's Point
Just a stunning spot with a few 4WD tracks. Watch out for the crocs though!
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