Big River Crossing Memphis
Walk or bike across the Mississippi River on the longest pedestrian bridge, connecting Memphis, TN to Arkansas. Free, scenic, and family-friendly!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Big River Crossing Memphis
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk or bike across the Mississippi River on the longest pedestrian bridge, connecting Memphis, TN to Arkansas. Free, scenic, and family-friendly!
"The Big River Crossing is a must-do for its stunning views and unique state-line adventure!"
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Mile
Nearly a mile long, it's perfect for a stroll, run, or bike ride. Great exercise with a view!
🚗 Parking is Free!
Free parking is available, but can fill up on busy days. Plan ahead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mississippi River Views
The entire length of the bridge
Panoramic vistas of the mighty Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline. A photographer's dream!
State Line Crossing
Mid-bridge
Walk or bike from Tennessee to Arkansas and back! A unique way to tick off two states.
Memphis Pyramid View
Eastern approach to the bridge
Catch a glimpse of the iconic Bass Pro Shops Pyramid from a unique vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Mile
Nearly a mile long, it's perfect for a stroll, run, or bike ride. Great exercise with a view! +1
🚗 Parking is Free!
Free parking is available, but can fill up on busy days. Plan ahead!
🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends along for the walk! Leashed pets are welcome. +1
📸 Capture the Views
The skyline and river offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Mile
Nearly a mile long, it's perfect for a stroll, run, or bike ride. Great exercise with a view! +1
🚗 Parking is Free!
Free parking is available, but can fill up on busy days. Plan ahead!
🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends along for the walk! Leashed pets are welcome. +1
📸 Capture the Views
The skyline and river offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water for your walk or ride.
➡️ Cross State Lines
Experience the unique thrill of walking from Tennessee to Arkansas! 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Big River Crossing for its stunning Mississippi River views, the unique experience of crossing state lines, and its accessibility as a free recreational spot. It's a well-maintained, safe location for walking, running, and biking, offering great photo opportunities. Some note the lack of restrooms and slow development as minor drawbacks.
"Good hiking spot. The interesting part is the crossing or state line between TN and AR states. Constructed over magnificent Mississippi River, a family-friendly hiking place.
The area is marked for development projects by 2026. I hope they continue to build, improve, and make it a more inviting place. There are picnic tables and electric bikes for rent on the AR side of the state line.
This bridge walk is fun, and the area itself is well maintained. However, lack of restrooms and slow development work makes the place less inviting."
Madan Nagaraju
"The Big River Crossing bridge is a straight shoot great for running, walking and biking with a view of the Mississippi River and breezy draft."
Eda
"Very nice trail that is well-maintained and offers great views of Memphis and the Mississippi River. Security cameras all over the bridge and typically a lot of foot and bike traffic so I’ve never felt uncomfortable there. However, like any city, be aware of your surroundings."
FFKDTP1
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big River Crossing is accessible from Memphis, Tennessee, with parking available near the entrance. It's a short drive from downtown Memphis. You can also access it from the West Memphis, Arkansas side.
Yes, free parking is available. However, it can get crowded on weekends and during events, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! The bridge is a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle path, making it ideal for cycling. You can even rent electric bikes on the Arkansas side.
Yes, it's considered very safe for running, with security cameras and consistent foot and bike traffic. Many locals use it for exercise.
The Big River Trail connects to Big River Crossing and offers over 110 miles of trails. Access points are available from Tom Lee Park in Memphis and other trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Big River Crossing is free! It's a public pedestrian and bicyclist bridge.
The bridge is generally open to the public. While specific hours aren't always posted, it's best to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety.
There is no entrance fee to access and walk or bike across Big River Crossing.
No, there are no age restrictions. It's a family-friendly attraction suitable for all ages. +1
Yes, Big River Crossing is pet-friendly! Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk, run, or bike across the Mississippi River, enjoy stunning skyline views, and even cross into Arkansas. It's a great spot for exercise and photography.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River, the Memphis skyline, and the surrounding delta landscape.
Yes, the bridge is wide and well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and families with young children.
Restrooms can be limited directly on the bridge. It's advisable to use facilities before or after your crossing, or at designated park areas.
The bridge is nearly a mile long, making it the longest public pedestrian and bicyclist bridge over the Mississippi River.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for skyline shots. Early mornings can also provide clear views with fewer people.
The Memphis skyline, the Mississippi River itself, and the unique perspective of crossing into Arkansas are all highly photogenic.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local ordinances and park rules before flying a drone in the area.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography may require permits, so it's wise to inquire if you plan professional shoots.
You can capture images of the Memphis Pyramid, the riverboats, and the expansive Mississippi River.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it a picnic adventure by packing a lunch to enjoy at one of the designated areas. The chance to see barges and the expansive river can keep younger ones entertained for hours. It's a safe and engaging way to get some fresh air and exercise together.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
It's also a great place to incorporate a 'state line challenge' into your routine, running from Tennessee to Arkansas and back. The Big River Trail system also offers extended routes for longer runs.
📸 Photographers and View Seekers
Capturing the vastness of the Mississippi River and the iconic Memphis Pyramid from this vantage point offers unique perspectives. The bridge itself, with its impressive structure, also makes for compelling shots. Early mornings or late afternoons are recommended for the best light and fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. Don't forget to frame shots that include the state line marker for a truly unique photo.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Big River Crossing
The construction and opening of the Big River Crossing were significant events, celebrated with excursions and community involvement. It's a testament to the region's commitment to enhancing recreational opportunities and connecting communities. The bridge's design prioritizes user experience, with a wide, paved surface that accommodates walkers, runners, and cyclists comfortably.
Beyond its structural significance, the Big River Crossing serves as a vital link for recreation and tourism. It's a key component of the larger Big River Trail system, which offers extensive opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The bridge's accessibility and free entry make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for an active and scenic experience.
Experiencing the State Line Adventure
Many visitors highlight the thrill of stepping into a new state on foot or by bike. It's a simple yet profound experience that adds an extra layer of adventure to the walk. The transition is seamless, and the feeling of accomplishment is often shared by those who make the journey.
+1For those looking to extend their adventure, the Arkansas side offers access to trails and amenities, including the option to rent electric bikes. This makes the Big River Crossing not just a destination, but a gateway to further exploration in the region.
Safety and Accessibility on the Bridge
Many users report feeling comfortable and safe while using the crossing, citing the consistent presence of other walkers, runners, and cyclists.
The bridge is also pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to join in on the fun, making it a truly inclusive recreational space for the whole family.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit