Gary Peters is tied to the Aug. 5 opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge’s multi-use path, when pedestrians and cyclists will be able to cross between Detroit and Windsor on foot or by bike. Vincent Dockett, a Detroit cyclist, said he is looking forward to the trip: "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,"
The path is 1.5 miles long and free for pedestrians and cyclists. Travelers will still need a valid passport, enhanced driver’s license or NEXUS card, and they will pass through dedicated customs facilities before entering the bridge.
Detroit and Windsor access
The Gordie Howe International Bridge will be the only border crossing between Michigan and Canada where people can legally cross on foot or by bicycle. On the Detroit side, the path connects to the Joe Louis Greenway, giving riders and walkers a direct link into a broader network already used on both sides of the Detroit River.
Todd Scott, executive director of the Detroit Greenways Coalition, said the group has pushed for that kind of connection for nearly two decades. "There are really no connections right now between Detroit and Windsor for people walking and biking," he said. "There are great trails on both sides of the river."
Concrete barriers and customs
The route is separated from vehicle traffic by concrete barriers, creating a dedicated lane for non-motorized travelers. That setup keeps the crossing open to pedestrians and cyclists while still requiring the same border paperwork and inspection process that applies to travelers entering Canada from Michigan or entering Michigan from Canada.
Scott said the opening could also draw people from outside the region, although the full scale is still hard to gauge. "I think we don’t know yet the impact this is going to have on cycling and attracting people from around the world to come here and visit," he said.
Aug. 5 opening day
For Vincent Dockett, the appeal is immediate: a free legal crossing between Detroit and Windsor that turns a routine ride into an international trip. The path opens Aug. 5, and for cyclists and walkers who want to use it, the practical next step is simple: bring the right travel document and head for the bridge.
