Gordie Howe bridge path hours shrink Nov. 1: what walkers and cyclists need to know

Walking or biking the Gordie Howe bridge? The path's hours shrink Nov. 1. Now: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (no entry after 7). Nov. 1 to March 31: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last entry at 3). It's free. Bring travel documents for both countries.

Topics: Roads and transit

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If you've been walking or biking across the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the path's hours are about to get shorter.

Hours now

The multi-use path is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Oct. 31. Entry ends at 7 p.m. so people can finish crossing before the gates lock.

Hours from Nov. 1

From Nov. 1 to March 31, the path is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entry ends one hour before closing, so the last entry is 3 p.m.

Before you go

The path is free. The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority says you need travel documents for both Canada and the U.S., and everyone goes through border inspection before leaving the path. There's no parking at either entrance; the bridge authority suggests the Malden Park trailhead on the Windsor side. The Windsor entrance is at 4389 Sandwich St. The path is about 3 km one way from inspection booth to booth, and the bridge authority estimates about 20 minutes by bike or 45 minutes on foot, not counting border processing.

What's allowed

Walkers, runners, bikes and pedal-assist e-bikes without a throttle can use the path. Electric scooters, electric skateboards, skateboards, in-line skates and pets are not allowed. Service animals and mobility devices for people with disabilities are permitted.

What it means for you

Plan for daylight crossings after Nov. 1, and check for closures before you head out. The bridge authority says hours can change for weather, maintenance, emergencies or agency operations, and closures are posted on gordiehoweinternationalbridge.com and the bridge's social media.