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Big River Crossing: Walk the Mighty Mississippi

Walk or bike across the Mississippi River on the Big River Crossing, the longest pedestrian bridge spanning the mighty river, connecting Memphis and Arkansas.

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Big River Crossing is a one-mile-long pedestrian and bicycle bridge that spans the Mississippi River, connecting Memphis, Tennessee, with West Memphis, Arkansas. It's the longest public pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi, offering stunning views of the Memphis skyline and the river.

A brief summary to Harahan Bridge | Big River Crossing

Local tips

  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the Memphis skyline and the Mississippi River.
  • Visit at night to experience the Mighty Lights, a spectacular LED lighting display on the bridge.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the bridge is nearly a mile long.
  • Check the Big River Crossing website for information on closures due to rail traffic or special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Memphis, head towards the riverfront and access the bridge via Channel 3 Drive near Virginia Avenue W, just beyond the driveway for the Church of the River. Follow the pathway onto the bridge. The walk from downtown Memphis is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Driving

    From downtown Memphis, take Front Street south to Channel 3 Drive. Turn left onto Channel 3 Drive and follow it to the parking area near Martyrs Park. Parking is free. From the parking area, follow the pathway to the bridge entrance.

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Discover more about Harahan Bridge | Big River Crossing

Big River Crossing (BRX) offers a unique way to experience the Mississippi River. Opened in 2016, this pedestrian and bicycle bridge repurposed the historic Harahan Bridge, originally built in 1916 as a railway bridge with roadways on each side. The bridge is nearly a mile long and provides breathtaking views of the Memphis skyline, the Arkansas floodplains, and the river itself. The Harahan Bridge, named for Illinois Central Railroad president James Theodore Harahan, played a vital role in connecting Memphis and Arkansas. Although the roadways were closed in 1949, the bridge remained an active railway. Big River Crossing is part of a larger effort to revitalize the riverfront and connect communities. The bridge is also a key part of the Main to Main Connector project, linking Main Streets in Memphis and West Memphis. At night, the Big River Crossing transforms into a spectacle of light with the Mighty Lights display. Over 100,000 LED lights illuminate the bridge, creating dynamic color shows and static displays that celebrate holidays and special events. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Big River Crossing offers a memorable experience and a new perspective on the Mississippi River.

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