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Detroit Riverwalk
4.8 ★★★★★ 6,364 Google reviews · Running trail in Detroit, Michigan · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Detroit Riverwalk's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Waterside and kid-friendly promenade featuring a playground, swings and a carousel, as well as scenic views of Detroit and Canada.
What runners say about Detroit Riverwalk
“I walked the full length and it did not disappoint — the path is clean, well-maintained, and easy to navigate whether you’re strolling or shooting photos.”
“The walk was beautiful with lots to see, including Canada on the opposite side of us, and the park with the Bernstein 🐻 was exciting for us adults as much as our kid.”
“Everyone was really nice and everything was peaceful, I saw lots of park staff members and law enforcement around and plenty of electric bikes in the area.”
“There are family-friendly touches like playgrounds, splash areas, and even a carousel, plus it’s easy to walk, jog, or bike along.”
The Detroit Riverwalk is honestly one of the coolest riverwalks I’ve ever been to. Stretching along the waterfront with views of both the Detroit skyline and Canada across the river, it makes for such a beautiful walk. The path is clean, well-kept, and full of spots to stop, sit, and take it all in.
This was a great little way to explore the river and to look over to the Canadian border. There was free parking at Cullen Plaza which we would recommend! Its puts you right in the heart of the walk!
The Detroit Riverwalk is such a treasure! 🌆🌊 Whether you’re walking, jogging, biking, or just relaxing, the views of the river and skyline are gorgeous. The path is well-maintained, clean, and feels safe.
Great trail along the Detroit River. Walk or ride your bike along the wide trail. Surprisingly long. Connects with the Dequindre Cut greenway. You can go all the way to Eastern Market.
Trail conditions & character
“The walk was beautiful with lots to see, including Canada on the opposite side of us, and the park with the Bernstein 🐻 was exciting for us adults as much as our kid.”
“Parking was free for 2 hours (then you need to switch spaces or whatever).”
“Everyone was really nice and everything was peaceful, I saw lots of park staff members and law enforcement around and plenty of electric bikes in the area.”
Plan your run at Detroit Riverwalk
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websitedetroitmi.gov
- Phone+1 313-566-8200
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–10 pm |
Running trails near Detroit
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,272 reviews
Waterfront park with a lighthouse & river walk, plus trails, picnic areas & shoreline fishing.
Dequindre Cut Greenway (South End)
4.7 ★★★★★ 146 reviews
2-mile public greenway along a former railroad, with paved walking & cycling paths & urban artwork.
Dequindre Cut
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,412 reviews
Largely below street level, this 2-mile greenway offers urban art plus pedestrian & biking lanes.
Dequindre Cut Greenway (North End)
5 ★★★★★ 7 reviews
Belle Isle Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 10,136 reviews
982-acre island featuring trails, an aquarium, museum, conservatory, disc golf course & playground.
