Crossing the Gordie Howe International Bridge

What identification is required? All pathway users must clear customs. You must carry a valid passport, NEXUS card, or an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL).

How do bicyclists clear customs? Dedicated processing lanes for pedestrians and bicyclists are located at both the US and Canadian Ports of Entry. 

Are there baggage restrictions? Standard border regulations apply. Any “bikepacking” gear, panniers, or backpacks are subject to inspection.

More information from U.S. Customs and Canadian Customs

Is there a fee/toll to use the pathway? No. There is no fee for pedestrians or bicyclists.

Are repair stations available? There currently are no bike repair stations at the trailhead, ports of entry or on the bridge. However, a station will be installed at the Clark Park trailhead once construction is completed in 2026.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge multi-use pathway policies have not yet been published.

Food & Agriculture: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and certain meat products are often prohibited. It is best to consume or dispose of these before reaching the border.

Cannabis: It remains illegal to transport cannabis or products containing THC across the international border, regardless of local state or provincial legality.

Self-Defense Items: Items like pepper spray or mace may be legal in the US but are considered prohibited weapons in Canada. Do not attempt to cross with these items.

Currency: If you are carrying currency or monetary instruments valued at $10,000 (USD or CAD) or more, you must declare it to customs officers.

Parking: For those transporting bikes by car, free vehicle parking is available at the designated trailhead in Windsor and on the nearby side streets near the US Port of Entry in Detroit.

• The Canada trailhead is at Malden Park (4255 Matchett Road, Windsor), which is about 3 km (1.8 miles) from the port of entry.
• Multiple side streets near the US Port of Entry offer on-street parking options. Longer term parking is available at the MDOT Carpool Parking Lot (1603 21st Street, Detroit) near the Michigan Welcome Center and Ambassador Bridge. 
• The city of Detroit is constructing a new trailhead at Clark Park (1161 Clark Street, Detroit), which is 1.6 miles (2.6 km) from the port of entry. There is a parking lot adjacent to the Clark Park Recreation Center and there is also on-street parking along both Clark and Scotten

Water & Restrooms: Public washrooms and water stations are located at Clark Park and Malden Park Visitor Centre.  There are no facilities at the ports of entry or on the bridge.

Trail Connections: Our online map shows how the bridge connects with various bike and trail routes across Detroit, Windsor, and Essex County.

• Canada: Connects to the Windsor Loop, Great Lakes Waterfront Trail and Trans-Canada Trail.
• US: Connects to the Joe Louis Greenway which connects with the Detroit RiverWalk, Dequindre Cut, and Belle Isle.

Separation: The pathway is physically separated from motor vehicle traffic by a concrete and steel barriers.

Means restrictive fencing: The bridge includes 9.5 feet/2.9 metre tall fencing along its sides to limit access to the Detroit River while maintaining sight lines. The angled fencing contributes to safety by reducing climbability.

Call Boxes and Crisis Assistance: Emergency call stations are installed at various points along the multi-use path where people can request assistance. Crisis intervention signage is also installed.

Security cameras and lighting: The entire multi-use path is lined with security cameras linked to the Traffic Management Centre. In addition to the road lighting, path-specific lighting is installed along the bridge to provide better illumination for pedestrians and cyclists.

Accessibility: The pathway is designed to be fully ADA (US) and AODA (Canada) compliant, featuring accessible grades for all users.