11
Walk or Bike the Gordie Howe Bridge for FREE Starting Aug 5
You Can Now Walk or Bike Between the U.S. and Canada on the Gordie Howe Bridge!
The Big News: A Brand New Path Opens August 5th
Imagine riding your bike across a giant bridge, feeling the wind off the river, and suddenly—you’re in another country! Starting August 5th, you can do exactly that.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge connects Detroit, Michigan (USA) and Windsor, Ontario (Canada). For the first time ever, a special lane on this bridge will open just for people walking and biking.
Why This Is a Big Deal
- It’s the only land border crossing between Michigan and Canada where you can legally cross on foot or by bike.
- No toll! It’s totally free for walkers and cyclists.
- The path is 1.5 miles long and separated from cars by big concrete walls—so it’s safe and peaceful.
How It Works: Step by Step
If you want to try it out, here’s what you need to do:
-
Bring Your ID
You’ll need a valid passport, an enhanced driver’s license, or a NEXUS card. (Even though there’s no toll, it’s still an international border!) -
Head to the Dedicated Customs Building
Before you get on the bridge, you’ll go through a special customs area just for walkers and bikers. -
Enjoy the Ride (or Walk!)
The path is wide, protected from traffic, and offers amazing views of the Detroit River. - Arrive in Canada (or the U.S.!)
Once across, you can explore Windsor’s trails—or connect to Detroit’s growing trail network.
What People Are Saying
“To ride across the water, that’s a win in itself. And then to ride into another country and back, that’s a double win.”
— Vincent Dockett, Detroit cyclist“There are really no connections right now between Detroit and Windsor for people walking and biking. There are great trails on both sides of the river.”
— Todd Scott, Detroit Greenways Coalition
Todd’s group has been pushing for this for nearly 20 years—and now it’s finally happening!
Connects to Awesome Trails on Both Sides
On the Detroit Side:
- Joe Louis Greenway – A growing network of trails across the city
- Dequindre Cut – A cool, below-street-level greenway with street art
- Detroit RiverWalk – Beautiful waterfront path
- Belle Isle – An island park with nature trails
- Eastern Market – Historic market district (great for a snack stop!)
On the Windsor Side:
- Connects to Windsor’s own riverfront trails and bike network
Special Bonus: A Ready-Made Bike Tour!
To celebrate the opening, the Detroit Greenways Coalition made a full-day bike tour that starts and ends at the bridge.
The route includes:
- Southwest Detroit
- Michigan Central Station area
- Downtown Detroit
- Eastern Market
- Dequindre Cut
- Belle Isle
- Detroit RiverWalk
Click here to see the full route on Ride with GPS
Why This Matters (Even If You Don’t Bike)
- Tourism boost: Cyclists from all over North America (and maybe the world!) may come just to ride this bridge.
- Health & fun: More safe places to walk and bike = healthier, happier communities.
- Connection: It links two cities that are neighbors but have been hard to visit without a car.
Summary
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| What’s opening? | Multi-use path on Gordie Howe International Bridge |
| When? | August 5th |
| Who can use it? | Pedestrians & cyclists |
| Cost? | Free (no toll) |
| Length? | 1.5 miles |
| Safety? | Separated from cars by concrete barriers |
| Documents needed? | Passport, enhanced license, or NEXUS card |
| Cool extra? | Connects to major trail networks on both sides + a curated bike tour |
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Do I need a passport to walk or bike across?
Yes. Even though there’s no toll, it’s an international border. You need a passport, enhanced driver’s license, or NEXUS card.
Is the path shared with cars?
No! The path is completely separated from vehicle traffic by concrete barriers. It’s just for people on foot or bikes.
Can I bring my e-bike?
The article doesn’t specify, but most multi-use paths allow Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (pedal-assist up to 20 mph). Check the bridge’s official website closer to opening day for exact rules.
Is the bridge open 24/7?
The article doesn’t say. Border crossings often have hours. Check the Gordie Howe International Bridge official site for operating hours before you go.
What if I don’t have a bike?
You can walk! The path is open to pedestrians too. Or look for bike-share programs in Detroit or Windsor.
Final Thought
This isn’t just a bridge—it’s a new way to connect. Whether you’re a serious cyclist, a casual walker, or just someone who loves a good view, August 5th marks the start of something special.
So grab your helmet, pack your passport, and get ready to ride across the border—no car required!
