Explore deep into the past of our early colonial history and even further back to ancient Aboriginal culture - all from Cooktown, a beautiful, unspoilt, small coastal town surrounded by stunning countryside. A life-size statue of explorer Captain James Cook stands at the very spot where he stepped ashore while much needed repairs were made to his ship the Endeavour, after hitting a reef in 1770. See the town's historic buildings, cemetery and museums to discover more about Captain Cook as well as Indigenous, European and Chinese history. Head north on a four wheel-drive journey along Battle Camp Road to Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park. Queensland's second-largest national park features spectacular wetlands and extensive river systems that are home to an array of wildlife, especially birds and crocodiles. People travel from all over the world to view the largest known collection of prehistoric rock art near Laura, the next stop on the circuit route. This area is known as Quinkan country after the Aboriginal spirits depicted at the Split Rock and Gu Gu Yalangi rock-art sites. Next stop is Lakeland, also known as Lakeland Downs, a small farming centre and ideal rest stop south of Laura, before you reach Cooktown.