Queensland Walks

Cooktown Scenic Rim Trail
Cooktown

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Cooktown's Scenic Rim Trail displays all aspects of the town's historical and cultural delights. Experience a range of diverse natural habitats, each with their own special features and species.

Walk through mangrove lined banks of the Endeavour River, an estuarine environment which forms a complex breeding ground for various wildlife. Pass through open forest on the lower reaches of Mount Cook, until the trail reaches the rainforest. Up through the dim rainforest light, weave past vine thicket and around walls of buttress roots. The trail crosses Alligator Creek, (only cross at low tide) and continues along the beach towards the northern end of Finch Bay.

On the decent to the small secluded beach at Cherry Tree Bay enjoy magnificent coastal views. Sometimes fish, turtles and even dugongs can be seen in the bay. The Scenic Rim Trail is broken into nine different sections, catering for a range of fitness levels.


ABOUT THE WALK


Distance: 14.4 kilometres
Duration: 9 hours
Category: Full Day Walk
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Circuit

Start Point: Captain Cook's Statue in Cooktown's Botanical Gardens is the official starting point. However, the trail may be commenced or completed at any point along the route and walked in either direction.

Walk Highlights

  • Contrasting vegetation
  • Cultural heritage sites
  • Migratory birds
  • Sand dunes and beaches
  • Valley views


Walk Hints

Wear a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. Take drinking water.

The walk was designed so that it can be done in its entirety in a full day, or depending on the visitor's time and physical capability, embarked on in sections.

Pick up a walking trail brochure from the visitor centre for detailed information.


Best Time To Go

The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit, for both safety and ease of access.


CONTACT DETAILS

Phone: 07 4069 5777
Email: cooktown@epa.qld.gov.au
Web: www.epa.qld.gov.au/projects/park/index.cgi?noback=1&parkid=162

ENTRY INFORMATION

Free Entry:
Yes.

FURTHER INFORMATION


How to get There

Cooktown is about four hours drive north of Cairns on sometimes rough roads. The various sections of the Cooktown Scenic Rim Walk can be easily reached on foot or by car from the town centre.