5.0
(7801)
7,802
hikers
Big River Crossing
01:01
3.96km
20m
Hiking
If you're looking for a hike that delivers big views without big effort, the Big River Crossing is an excellent choice. This easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) route, taking about 1 hour and 1 minute, spans the Mississippi River, offering stunning panoramic vistas of the Memphis skyline and the Arkansas countryside.…
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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2.11 km
Big River Crossing
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
Tip by
3.96 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.65 km
301 m
Surfaces
3.72 km
229 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 5 July
33°C
23°C
60 %
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Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Big River Crossing?
On the Memphis side, parking is available at Tom Lee Park. The trail is free to access, and there are no specific trailhead access fees.
Is the Big River Crossing trail suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, this is an easy trail, widely considered suitable for most ages and fitness levels, making it great for beginners and families. The surface is paved and generally flat.
What is the terrain like on the Big River Crossing?
The crossing itself is a paved, hard-surface trail built on the historic Harahan Bridge, featuring perforated steel plating. While generally flat, you might notice a slight incline when ascending from the Arkansas side. It connects to other paved trails along the Mississippi levees.
What can I see along the route?
You'll experience expansive views of the Mississippi River, the Memphis city skyline, including landmarks like Beale Street Landing and the Hernando de Soto Bridge. You can also observe boats on the river and trains on the adjacent tracks. The route itself is a highlight: Big River Crossing.
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Arkansas Connector, the Mississippi River Trail (Tennessee), and the Ducks Unlimited Park Mississippi River Trail. It also serves as a gateway to the larger 70-mile Big River Trail system in Arkansas.
Is the Big River Crossing dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Big River Crossing. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the crossing?
No, the Big River Crossing is free to access, and no permits are required to walk or bike across it.
What is the best time of year to visit?
While accessible year-round, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for walking. In Arkansas, the 1,500-acre Ducks Unlimited Park, accessible from the crossing, features seasonal sunflower fields which are a beautiful sight.
Are there restrooms or water available on the trail?
On the Memphis side, you can find restrooms and drinking water facilities at Tom Lee Park, near the entrance to the crossing.
What are the operating hours for the Big River Crossing?
The Big River Crossing is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. It also features 24-hour security monitoring.
What makes the Big River Crossing unique?
It holds the distinction of being the longest public pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi River, connecting two states (Tennessee and Arkansas). At night, it's part of the "Mighty Lights" display, an LED light show that illuminates the river.
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