Big River Crossing connects Memphis and West Memphis via rail bridge

The Big River Crossing, the longest public pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Mississippi River, offers a rare opportunity to walk between Memphis, Tennessee, and West Memphis, Arkansas. According to a first-person account, the structure transforms a historic rail bridge into a multi-use path, though visitors starting from the Arkansas side should prepare for a significant trek before reaching the water’s edge.

The physical demands of the Arkansas approach

While the crossing is free and open daily from sunrise to 10 p.m., the experience varies depending on the point of entry. The author describes a challenging walk from the Arkansas parking area to the river, noting that the covered walkway is well-designed and safe but unexpectedly long. For those not moving at a fast pace, the author reports it can take 20 to 25 minutes just to reach the point where the path is actually above the Mississippi River.

The author, who had undergone knee replacement surgery a few months prior, writes that the experience validated the necessity of physical therapy and strength training for older adults who wish to continue traveling. The walk extends further to reach the blue state line sign located halfway across the river, adding another 10 to 15 minutes of travel time.

Big River Crossing / Harahan Bridge History

For those seeking a different route, the author notes a pedestrian path known as the “Big River Trail” or “Scenic Spur” on digital maps that parallels the raised walkway and leads to the river’s edge. Much of the surrounding green space on the Arkansas side is part of the 1,500-acre Ducks Unlimited Park.

From industrial history to urban connectivity

The Big River Crossing is not a new construction but an adaptive reuse project. It converted the 1916 Harahan Iron Bridge—originally designed for trains, wagons, and cars—into a public thoroughfare.

Bikers going across big river crossing rgb s — Photo: memphistravel.com

The transition across the river provides a stark contrast in environments. The walk takes visitors from the urban density of downtown Memphis to a “natural oasis” in Arkansas. On the Tennessee side, the bridge deposits pedestrians directly into the heart of downtown Memphis, providing immediate access to shops, restaurants, and the city’s blues district.

The bridge provides views of the South Bluffs, Beale Street Landing, and the Memphis skyline. For those looking to extend the trip beyond the bridge, the site offers several connected paths:

Bridge over the Mississippi river from Arkansas to Memphis, TN October 12, 2026 #mississippiriver

Ducks Unlimited Park: 1,500 acres featuring seven miles of paved trails and a seasonal sunflower field.
The Big River Trail: A 70-mile graded path across levees accessible via Broadway Avenue in West Memphis.
Downtown Memphis: Bike lanes on Front Street and The Riverwalk provide safe passage around the city center.

Cultural landmarks and regional access

Continuing 5.5 miles west of the bridge’s terminus leads to the Main Street district of West Memphis. This area is home to the original KWEM radio station, which began broadcasting in 1947 and provided airtime to artists such as B.B. King, Howlin’ Wolf, Johnny Cash, and Albert King.

The bridge also accommodates various levels of mobility. While the author of the first-person account describes a slower, “plodding” pace, the bridge is frequently used by intense runners and cyclists. To assist those who may struggle with the distance, bike share rental options, including e-bikes, are available through BCycle / Revolution at both entry points.

The crossing is designed for safety and accessibility at all hours of operation. The author of the first-person account observes that automatic lighting activates after sunset, maintaining a sense of security for pedestrians. This infrastructure allows the bridge to function as both a tourist attraction and a functional link between two states, provided the visitor is aware of the walking distances involved on the Arkansas side.