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Running trails & routes
United States
Michigan
Wayne County
Detroit

Joe Louis Greenway

Moderate

2.8

(10)

38

runners

Joe Louis Greenway

00:56

9.06km

20m

Running

Embark on a moderate jogging experience along the Joe Louis Greenway, a 5.6-mile (9.1 km) paved route that offers a unique blend of urban landscapes and green spaces in Detroit. As you cover the 58 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, you will find yourself immersed in revitalized areas, passing…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

5.27 km

Dequindre Cut Greenway

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Originally a Grand Western Railroad train line, Dequindre Cut is now an urban park and greenway, brought to city life with colorful, artistic graffiti.

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2

5.85 km

William G. Milliken State Park

Highlight • Viewpoint

As the first urban state park in Michigan, William G. Miliken State Park is a small park and harbor on the Detroit Riverfront offering wonderful views of the city and river.

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3

6.64 km

Detroit Riverwalk Viewpoint

Highlight • Viewpoint

Gorgeous view from Detroit Riverwalk with pleasant views of the Detroit River and Windsor, Canada on the other side.

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4

7.35 km

Gateway to Freedom Monument

Highlight • Monument

As an international memorial to the Underground Railroad, the Gateway to Freedom Monument is a touching piece of art dedicated to those who escaped slavery by the Underground Railroad to Canada.

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5

8.34 km

Campus Martius

Highlight • Rest Area

Campus Martius Park is a restored park in downtown Detroit, Michigan. After the Great Fire of 1805, Campus Martius was central to Judge Augustus Woodward's plans to rebuild the city. (Wikipedia)

Translated by Google •

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9.06 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.87 km

132 m

< 100 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

5.75 km

1.96 km

1.14 km

159 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Today

Thursday 28 May

21°C

13°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Joe Louis Greenway?

While specific parking lots are still developing with the greenway, many sections are accessible from existing city parking. For instance, you can often find parking near areas like Campus Martius or along the Dequindre Cut Greenway, which integrates with the greenway. Public transportation options are also being enhanced to connect to various access points.

Is the Joe Louis Greenway dog-friendly?

Yes, the greenway is designed to be inclusive for all users, including those with dogs. It's generally expected that dogs should be kept on a leash, and owners should clean up after their pets to maintain a pleasant experience for everyone.

What is the best time of year to jog the greenway?

The paved paths make the greenway accessible year-round. However, spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for jogging, with pleasant scenery as foliage changes or blooms. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or evenings are ideal. Winter jogging is possible, but be prepared for colder conditions.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the Joe Louis Greenway?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to use the Joe Louis Greenway. It is a public recreational pathway designed for free access to all.

What is the terrain like on the greenway, and is it suitable for beginners?

The greenway primarily features a paved path, making it very suitable for jogging, walking, and biking. It's generally described as having a 'green difficulty' or being 'moderately popular,' meaning it's accessible to a wide range of fitness levels and not overly challenging. Some sections even have separate paths for faster and slower movers, enhancing safety for beginners.

What kind of scenery and landmarks can I expect along the route?

You'll experience a diverse range of scenery, weaving through 23 Detroit neighborhoods and connecting to surrounding cities. Expect a mix of urban landscapes, revitalized areas, parks, and green spaces. Notable points include the vibrant Dequindre Cut Greenway with its urban art, sections of the Detroit RiverWalk offering waterfront views near William G. Milliken State Park and the Detroit Riverwalk Viewpoint, and the historic Gateway to Freedom Monument.

How long is the Joe Louis Greenway, and are there options for shorter loops?

The full Joe Louis Greenway project is an ambitious undertaking, aiming to create a continuous loop of approximately 27.5 to 29 miles upon completion. The Komoot tour for jogging is about 9 km (5.6 miles). As it connects to existing trails and passes through many neighborhoods, there are numerous access points allowing you to create shorter loops or out-and-back segments to suit your desired distance.

Does the greenway connect to other trails in Detroit?

Yes, the Joe Louis Greenway is designed to integrate with and connect to several other popular trails in the region. It notably links with the Dequindre Cut Greenway and sections of the Detroit Riverwalk. Upon completion, it will also connect to larger trail systems across Michigan, including the Iron Belle Trail, and potentially an international crossing to Windsor, Ontario.

Are there amenities like restrooms or cafes along the greenway?

As the greenway is still under development, amenities like dedicated restrooms and cafes are being integrated. However, since it connects to many neighborhoods and commercial corridors, you'll find various facilities and establishments, including coffee shops, near access points and along sections that pass through urban areas like Campus Martius.

Is the Joe Louis Greenway suitable for jogging with children?

Absolutely! The paved, well-maintained paths and generally accessible difficulty make it suitable for families. The project emphasizes creating safe and inclusive pathways for people of all abilities. Some sections even have separated paths for pedestrians, which can be safer for children. The varied scenery and connections to parks offer engaging experiences for younger joggers.

What makes the Joe Louis Greenway a unique place to jog in Detroit?

The greenway is unique for its ambitious scale, aiming to connect 23 diverse Detroit neighborhoods, Hamtramck, Highland Park, and Dearborn. It's a significant project focused on community revitalization, providing safe, car-free paths that link residents to schools, parks, jobs, and historic sites. Named in honor of legendary boxer Joe Louis, it serves as a lasting tribute and a symbol of accessibility and inclusivity for the entire city.

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