The Gordie Howe International Bridge is expected to open in late 2024. The new bridge to Canada already included a bike path; now, we'll be able to walk to our neighboring country.

On Friday, Trans Canada Trail announced a "destination opportunity will pave the way for cross-border trail tourism." The new bridge would link the Iron Belle Trail and the Great Lakes Way here in Michigan with the Trans Canada Trail, increasing opportunities for enjoying the trail network around the Great Lakes.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Trans Canada Trail, the Waterfront Regeneration Trust in Ontario, the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

The partners will collaborate on the trail experience itself, as well as marketing and technology accompanying the trails.

“There are many ways Michigan continues to earn its reputation as our nation’s Trails State, and this partnership shines an international spotlight on enviable trail resources and outdoor adventure on both sides of the bridge," says Dan Eichinger, Director of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "We’re excited about welcoming more people to Detroit, where much time, energy and investment have created an inviting bit of ‘up north’ downtown, and then encouraging them to take in the rest of our beautiful state. We’re especially proud of the Iron Belle Trail, stretching along two hiking and bicycling routes from Belle Isle Park in Detroit to Ironwood in the western Upper Peninsula. Recently, people have turned to state trails, parks and waterways like never before, seeking space, comfort and connection. The opportunities afforded by this partnership surely will provide even greater reward for getting outdoors.”

The Trans Canada Trail notes that this will encourage visits to the new Ojibway National Urban Park in Windsor, as well as Ontario's wine country for cyclists.

The group has developed an interactive map to explore the trailways around the Great Lakes region.

Greenways are expanding across the city and metro region, with the Joe Louis Greenway and connections to the Iron Belle Trail.