How to Bike the Gordie Howe Bridge: Detroit to Windsor | Visit Detroit

[Clark Park Trailhead]

[Joe Louis Greenway to Downtown Detroit]

[Crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge]

[Explore Malden Park and the Ojibway Prairie Complex]

Windsor Riverfront Trail

FINALLY! The Gordie Howe International Bridge's "Multi-Use Path" is OPEN, solidifying Detroit as America's preeminent "two nation destination." If you're ready for your next two-for-one adventure across the international Detroit region, then check out Episode 4 of "Trailblaze Detroit" as we explore both sides of the Gordie Howe International Bridge!

Let's start at the end of a glorious day of firsts. Standing proudly at the Malden Park Observation Area, the highest elevation of Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Admiring the gleaming Gordie Howe International Bridge to my left, the stoic skyscrapers of downtown Detroit to my right, and an oasis of forest amidst my immediate surroundings. The sparkling Detroit River completes the panorama, with its crisp waves complementing the warm summer sun.

I'm soaking it all in on August 5th, 2026: the inaugural opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge's long-awaited "Multi-Use Path." A major - no, unparalleled - event in the development of the Detroit region's international outdoor ecosystem. The first day that the burgeoning trail networks of southeast Michigan and southwest Ontario were forever linked via one seamless, state of the art marvel of modern infrastructure.

From that vantage point, you could see all of Detroit's outdoor ecosystem. And I'm not just referring to the Gordie, or the recently-minted parks and greenways dotting the Detroit Riverfront, or even the distant moraines that encapsulate Metro Detroit's largest state parks and far-flung destinations. Dare I say you could even see the future of our outdoor amenities, including the forthcoming Ojibway National Urban Park in Windsor and the Joe Louis Greenway in Detroit.

But on that dazzling, late summer afternoon, the Gordie Howe International Bridge stood alone as the crown jewel of Detroit's outdoor destinations. A brand new, bucket list-worthy recreational experience worth celebrating. A fluid connection between two trails systems, cities, and nations that I was proud to be among the first to explore.

Now that the fanfare has passed and the Gordie's operations are firing on all cylinders, the Trailblaze Detroit Team - an adventure-travel collaboration between Expedition Detroit and Visit Detroit - is proud to present this "expert's guide" to crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's "Multi-Use Path." Beyond important logistics, this guide highlights the regional destinations on both sides of the border waiting for you to experience.

Okay, Trailblaze readers - let's go international and explore crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's "Multi-Use Path" now!

Start the Adventure: Clark Park Trailhead in Detroit, Michigan

Total Miles: 5.9 miles (one way)

U.S. Trailhead: Clark Park, Detroit, MI

Canadian Trailhead: Malden Park, Windsor, ON

Your grand international adventure across the Detroit region begins in one of its most unassuming destinations: Clark Park in Detroit. Logistically, Clark Park makes sense as the designated "official U.S. trailhead" for accessing the Gordie Howe International Bridge from Detroit. The park and its immediate environs have ample parking, plentiful public amenities (such as restrooms and drinking fountains), and is nestled conveniently among the vibrant MexicanTown, Southwest Detroit, Hubbard Farms, and Delray neighborhoods.

What makes Clark Park even more exciting as the official U.S. gateway surrounds the past, present, and future of the park itself. Clark Park represents one of the oldest and most well-used parks within the City of Detroit, with its rich and diverse history dating back to the1800's. A $4M renovation that ended in 2023 brought Clark Park into the modern era, unveiling an ADA-accessible playground, splash pad, multi-sport court, picnic shelters, benches, walking paths, outdoor fitness equipment, baseball fields, a zipline, and the only regulation-sized outdoor ice hockey rink in Metro Detroit.

Looking ahead, Clark Park will undoubtedly remain a Detroit outdoor staple due to its primetime location along the in-process Joe Louis Greenway (the "JLG"). As the JLG continues its transformation from dream to interconnected reality, walking, jogging, or biking from the core of downtown Detroit to the Gordie Howe International Bridge will become a new favorite pastime for Detroiters and visitors alike - with Clark Park serving as the route's community anchor.

Featured Image

Clark Park in Southwest Detroit

Side Quest: Bike the Joe Louis Greenway to Downtown Detroit

Before we jump to crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge, let's keep the focus domestic for this first recommended "Side Quest." Yes, Clark Park serves as the official trailhead to the Gordie Howe International Bridge — but that doesn't mean you should forego Detroit's other interconnected outdoor gems, especially as the JLG comes to fruition.

So, assuming that you'll either be parking at Clark Park or starting your ride from downtown Detroit, here are the can't-miss destinations along the JLG route:

Southwest Greenway: Opened to the public in May of 2023, this dynamic greenway trail connects Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park with the Michigan Central mobility innovation district, Corktown, Mexicantown and Southwest Detroit neighborhoods. The Southwest Greenway is home to The Yard Graffiti Museum, an outdoor gallery dedicated to the preservation of the graffiti and underground history of this space, and features a zip line and climbing logs for younger visitors to enjoy.
Michigan Central Station and Roosevelt Park: Just a stone's throw away from the Southwest Greenway lies the crown jewel of Corktown — the recently renovated Michigan Central Station and its adjacent Roosevelt Park. The Station and Roosevelt Park provide a unique public destination, worthy of the complex's historical and cultural significance, with distinctive retail, cultural installations, and more.
Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park: At the southern terminus of the Southwest Greenway is the transformational Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park. Just opened in October of 2025, this paradigm-shifting park along the Detroit River boasts the dynamic Delta Dental Play Garden, the serene Huron-Clinton Metroparks Water Garden, the William Davidson Sport House for year-round recreation, and beautifully landscaped, tree-lined paths perfect for walking, relaxing, and reflection.
Detroit Riverwalk Trail: No visit to Detroit is complete without a stroll or ride along the world-famous Detroit Riverwalk Trail. Crowned three years in a row as the "Best Riverwalk in America" by USA Today, the stunning 4.3 mile Riverwalk connects downtown Detroit's most beloved parks, greenways, and communities along the Detroit River.
Hart Plaza: For most visitors to Detroit, Hart Plaza will serve as an ideal launching point for all adventures throughout the city's trail system (and beyond). Located in the heart of both downtown AND the Riverwalk, Hart Plaza represents the home of Detroit's summer-long festival scene, features several monuments, and contains breathtaking views of both downtown's skyscrapers and Windsor, Ontario.

The Main Event: Complete Guide to Crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge

Now, the moment you've been waiting for (and why you probably clicked on this article): here's a step-by-step guide to crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge via its Multi-Use Path.

Step 1: Navigate to the U.S. access point along Jefferson Avenue.

Before you think "Duh" and skip ahead, note that most of the Joe Louis Greenway trail that will connect Clark Park to the Gordie Howe International Bridge — including the route mapped out above — is still under construction. As of the publishing date of this article, we recommend walking or biking either of these routes depending on active construction:

S Clark Street to Jefferson Avenue W; or
S Clark Street to W Fort Street, then following bike path to S Campbell Street before turning right onto Jefferson Avenue W.

Step 2: Confirm that you have all international travel prerequisites.

This step goes beyond just having the proper international travel documentation for crossing into Canada (and back into the United States). Here is a cheatsheet of every important detail that you should take into account before accessing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path:

Travel Documentation: All Multi-Use Path users must clear customs. You must carry a valid passport, NEXUS card, an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or a Michigan Enhanced ID.
Mode of Transport: Pedestrian (walking or running) and cycling traffic; only Class I e-bikes that are pedal-assist with motors that automatically cut off at 19 MPH (32 km/h) are permitted.
Physical Requirements: The Gordie Howe International Bridge is approximately 1.5 miles in length and has an incline of 5%. Some pedestrians and cyclists may find crossing the bridge to be strenuous in some sections, so please plan accordingly.
Time of Access: The Multi-Use Path is open from 8 AM to 8 PM from April 1st through October 31st; 8 AM to 4 PM from November 1st through March 31st. Access to the pathway will end one hour before closing time to allow users to complete their journey within the hours of operation.
Prohibited Items and Actions: Skateboards, roller-skates, in-line skates, and similar devices; motorized power assist rideable bikes or scooters; agricultural and meat products; cannabis; self-defense items (i.e., pepper spray); consumption of alcohol, vaporizers, or e-cigarettes; use of drones or other unmanned devices; using speakers.
Cost: FREE!

Step 3: Enjoy Crossing the Bridge!

FINALLY, the fun part! Once you've confirmed that all of the prerequisites are met, then you have the green light to enjoy quite possibly the most unique trail experience of your life. One that can only be compared — briefly — to running in the Detroit Marathon.

As you venture up the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path, climbing ever higher towards its frontier summit (the literal border between the U.S. and Canada), don't forget to exercise a degree of caution if you're exercising along the route. You will almost certainly be sharing the Multi-Use Path with several other users, each with varying degrees of transportation modes, speeds, directions, and interests. Especially as you approach the official border, adorned with flags, plaques, and potential crowds, please don't try to sprint through this marquee photo destination.

Instead, we advise slowing down and taking in the views. The maximum height of the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path is 150 feet above the middle of the Detroit River, so you'll be treated to unobstructed views of the Ambassador Bridge, the Detroit and Windsor skylines, and a freighter or two if you're lucky. Plus, how often can you say that you crossed an international border while out on your run or ride?

Once you've crossed over the border — regardless of the direction — the Multi-Use Path will take you downhill, and fast. Cyclists will especially enjoy riding this section, although remember that the maximum speed permitted along the Gordie Howe International Bridge is 12 MPH (12 km/h). Enjoy the ride, but always stay in control.

Your journey over the Gordie Howe International Bridge ends roughly 1.5 miles later at Canadian border patrol, so be sure to have your travel documents ready for approval.

Side Quest: Exploring Historic Fort Wayne

Before walking or riding into the Jefferson Avenue entry point, we strongly encourage that you delay your international adventure slightly longer to explore one of Detroit's historical gems located directly across the street: Historic Fort Wayne, a designated Michigan State Historic Site since 1958 and member of the National Register of Historic Places since 1971.

Contrary to the collaborative spirit of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the U.S. military constructed Fort Wayne in 1845 to deter another armed conflict with British Canada during the decades that followed the War of 1812. Fortunately, such use never arrived, although the original barracks that were built in 1848 - as well as the original limestone "star fort" walls - are still standing.

Historic Fort Wayne's military and civilian use has followed the long and fascinating history of both the City of Detroit and United States as a whole. During the American Civil War, Fort Wayne served as a formal military training ground for Union soldiers. The fort also played a key role in Detroit's service as the "Arsenal of Democracy" during both World Wars, providing manufacturing and logistical support of allied efforts. Fort Wayne served as a station on the Underground Railroad, housing for displaced Detroiters during the Great Depression, and operated for draftee induction during the Vietnam War.

In its present state, Historic Fort Wayne serves Detroit's public as a scenic park with community soccer fields, riverside picnic grounds, and hosting events. And despite the fort's fascinating history, its brightest days are surely yet to come thanks to restoration efforts being spearheaded by the City of Detroit, Historic Fort Wayne Coalition, and Kresge and National Park Foundations.

Canadian Finale: Exploring Malden Park and the Ojibway Prairie Complex

Amazingly, your entry into Windsor, Ontario means that your perfect day exploring the international Detroit region is only halfway complete. Once you have passed through Canadian customs, the official Gordie Howe International Bridge route follows Sandwich Street to its dead-end on Broadway Street. At this point, you will have officially taken your first steps along the Trans Canada Trail: the longest recreational, multi-use trail system in the entire world.

Following the Trans Canada Trail signage will lead you directly to Malden Park, the designated Windsor trailhead for accessing the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Multi-Use Path. While this designation may appear to solidify Malden Park as the finish line for your Gordie Howe Bridge adventure, we encourage you to flip that connotation and view Malden Park as your gateway to exploring the Windsor Essex region.

Here are Trailblaze Detroit's recommended Windsor adventure travel destinations:

Malden Park: Aside from representing the Canadian gateway to the Gordie Howe International Bridge, Malden Park boasts the highest hill in Essex County (the can't-miss "Malden Park Observation Area") and an extensive mountain biking and gravel cycling trail system.
Ojibway Prairie Complex: A nearly 1,000-acre complex of parks and nature reserves that protects one of the largest remnants of tallgrass prairie and oak savannah in Ontario.
Ojibway Shores: The last natural coastline of the Detroit River in Ontario.
The Trans Canada Trail: 16 miles of the 18,000+ mile trail network connects the Gordie Howe International Bridge directly to serene parkland, thrilling cultural experiences, and waterfront adventures in the Windsor area.

Dare we say, the Windsor area's preeminent outdoor destination is yet to come — and will be immediately accessible from the Gordie Howe International Bridge. In August of 2021, Parks Canada launched a new program to support the creation of a network of "National Urban Parks" for nature conservation and protection, reconciliation with Indigenous partners, universal access to green spaces, and removal of transportation and infrastructure barriers. The Windsor region has been selected for one of Canada's next National Urban Parks — currently titled "Ojibway National Urban Park" — which is currently in its planning phase.

Side Quest: Cycling Old Sandwich Town along the Windsor Riverfront Trail

Old Sandwich Town, Ontario, Canada — Credit: Neil Cornwall

If you prefer to pair your recreational adventures with a slice of history or a good bite, then we suggest rerouting your Windsor adventures towards Old Sandwich Town and downtown Windsor. All this requires is turning left on Sandwich Street after exiting the Gordie Howe International Bridge's Canadian entry point and following the Windsor Riverfront Trail.

For the uninitiated, Old Sandwich Town is considered one of the oldest, most historically significant settlements in Ontario and has been the site of several historically significant events in North American history. Founded in 1797 in the immediate wake of the American Revolution, Sandwich Town has witnessed the outbreak of the War of 1812, the Upper Canadian Rebellion of 1837, the final destination for thousands of freed and fugitive U.S. slaves along the Underground Railroad, and countless other historic moments throughout Canadian history. You can even visit the Duff-Baby House, which has witnessed each of these moments since its construction in 1798.

Fast forward to the 21st century, Old Sandwich Town continues to thrive as one of greater Windsor's most dynamic communities. Beyond its historic marvels, Old Sandwich Town's renown dining establishments include The Dominion House (believed to be the oldest continuously run tavern in southwest Ontario) and Sandwich Brewing Co. (popular craft brewery and seasonal starting point for ghost tours).

As you cross back over the Gordie Howe International Bridge into Detroit, we'd be willing to bet that you'll be smiling from ear to ear. In one unforgettable day, you have successfully explored two world-class trail systems. Cross it off the bucket list.

From connecting historic gems to future recreational marvels, the long-awaited Gordie Howe Bridge has blown away every expectation of a what a world-class trail experience should entail. We are beyond thrilled that the international Detroit region gets to lay claim to this transformational monument to recreation and collaboration. It was truly a dream come true to finally cross it on that historic late summer day.

We can't wait for you to have your own "crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge" adventure on your next visit to the international Detroit region.

Trailblaze Detroit is a multimedia series co-produced by Visit Detroit and Expedition Detroit. The core purpose of the series is to promote outdoor adventure tourism and discovery throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties, as well as highlight the Detroit region's natural spaces, seasonal activities, hidden outdoor gems, and the individuals that support them.

Are you interested in using adventure marketing to promote your organization or business? Awesome - we're here to help! Contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com or 734.821.6416 to learn more.