The Pedestrian Path of the Gordie Howe International Bridge
A second international bridge between Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, Canada opened for public access in 2026: the Gordie Howe International Bridge! This, in addition to the Ambassador Bridge, allows for the ability to cross from Detroit into Canada and back!
The Gordie Howe International Bridge does have something that sets it apart from the other bridge though, and that is that it includes a pedestrian path, or the “Multi-Use Path” in addition to the highway. We checked out the Multi-Use Path on its opening week, and thought we would put together some answers to frequently asked questions below based on our experience!
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How to Access the Multi-Use Path
To access the Multi-Use Path of the Gordie Howe International Bridge from the United States, you can go to the following address: 6524 West Jefferson Avenue, Detroit, MI.
To access the path from the Canadian side, you can find the entrance at the following address: 4389 Sandwich Street, Windsor, ON.
It’s good to keep both locations in mind as if you go all the way across, remember you may have to find your way back as well! 🙂
At each entrance to the path, there will be a gate to enter through. This entrance will have warning that you will need your international documentation to get back through once you choose to go onto the path. Once you’re through the gate, you’re officially on the path!
There are some officers stationed within the path itself, but no security checks upon entering. There will be border control security upon your exit of the path, whether you choose to exit back in the direction you came from or to the other country.
Is the Multi-Use Path Free?
Yes, the Multi-Use Path on the Gordie Howe International Bridge is free to use. It provides a direct path from Detroit to Windsor, but does require that you show your international documentation to cross the border.
What are the Hours of the Multi-Use Path?
The Multi-Use Path of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is open on a twelve hour schedule from 8:00am – 8:00pm in the warmer months of April through October. It then has reduced hours from 8:00am – 4:00pm from November through March.
While the path may still be open later, you will stop being allowed to enter the path an hour before closing time so that they can ensure you have enough time to exit before the borders close.
Where to Park
If you are driving to the path entrance from the Michigan side, there are a few options for parking. The first is to park at the Fort Wayne Visitor’s Lot across the street from the entrance, which is free of charge. The next is to try for street parking along West Jefferson Avenue.
Farther away, you can try parking at the free Clark Park lot, but keep in mind that this is about 1.5 miles away from the entrance and does cross some major roads on the route to the bridge.
If you are driving to the bridge from the Canadian side, there is actually a parking lot dedicated specifically for bridge users called the “Parking for Gordie Howe Bridge” lot located at 4375 Sandwich St., Windsor, ON N9C 4C8, Canada.
How to Use the Path
The Multi-Use Path is available to be used in – you guessed it – multiple ways! You may walk, run, skip, jog, or bike from one country to the other. Keep in mind that whatever method of transportation you choose, you will be sharing the path with others going in both directions on the same trail, so you will have to watch your surroundings and share the road!
There are also a list of prohibited means of transportation, including: skateboards, rollerblades, electronically powered wheels, hoverboards, and more – so be sure to double check your vehicle if you’re riding on anything other than a bike to make sure it is acceptable.
How Long is the Multi-Path of the Gordie Howe International Bridge?
The pedestrian path of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is 1.8 miles (3 km) from one border control to the next. They advertise a gradual incline and decline of 5% on the bridge portion of the path.
Do You Have to Cross All the Way?
No, once you start on the Multi-Path, you do not have to go all the way across. You may go part way, turn around to the direction you came from, at any point along your journey – including going all the way up to the other border patrol and back. However, once you enter the path you will need to share your international documentation to get out whichever direction you exit from, regardless of if you cross the other border control or not.
Where To Stay
If you are heading across the bridge for a long weekend instead of just an evening, here are some popular accommodations based on your travel style!
Detroit Accommodations:
- Rental Property Near Bridge: The Palacio Mexicano
- Popular Pick: The Fort Pontchartrain Detroit
- Luxury Stay: The Hotel Indigo
- Budget Friendly: The Hostel Detroit
Windsor Accommodations:
- Near Bridge: The Hyatt Place Windsor
- Popular Pick: Caesars Windsor Hotel & Casino
- Riverside Accommodation: The Windsor Waterfront
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About the Author: Hi, I’m Jill! I am a biomedical & mechanical engineer who loves traveling during my free time. My hope is to help make it easier for others to plan their dream trips by providing firsthand experience from the places I’ve been! Read More.
