Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge

Imagine walking over the majestic Saint John River on one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. The Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge is not just a crossing, but a true landmark of the city of Fredericton. Stretching 581 meters, it connects the north and south shores, offering residents and visitors to Canada a unique outdoor recreation space.

This site is a key link in the famous Trans Canada Trail — the longest network of recreational trails on the planet. The bridge serves as a vital green artery for the city: every day, hundreds of people cross it, preferring bicycles or walking to the noise of cars.

The bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the river's surface and urban landscapes. It is perfectly integrated into the city environment, connecting the picturesque Carleton Park in the north with the South Riverfront on the south, becoming a symbol of connection and a healthy lifestyle.

To plan your route to this iconic location, you will need the exact address. The site is easily accessible from the city's central districts.

The main reason to visit is for the panoramic walks. The bridge is equipped with safe wooden decking and high railings, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a morning run, or a bike ride. The bridge looks particularly impressive in the rays of the setting sun, when the reflection of the sky in the water creates a unique atmosphere for photos.

For sports enthusiasts, a parkrun is held here every Saturday — a free weekly 5-kilometer run. This is a wonderful opportunity to join the local community and recharge. The route passes not only over the bridge itself but also takes in the surrounding scenic trails.

The bridge is suitable for visitors of all ages: families come here to walk with children, while tourists enjoy the views. In winter, the trail remains accessible, highlighting the bridge's role as a year-round hub for active recreation. After crossing to the north shore, you can continue your route through Carleton Park, enjoying the peace and fresh air.

The attraction is located at 1050 Union St, and getting there is extremely simple. If you are downtown, the best way is to take a walk or a bike ride along the riverfront — the bridge is a natural extension of popular city routes.

For those who prefer a car, parking areas are provided at the entrance to Carleton Park on the north shore or along Union Street on the south. The city's public transit system is also well-developed: Fredericton Transit bus routes stop within walking distance of the bridge entrances.

Travelers arriving from Fredericton International Airport (YFC) will need about a 20-minute taxi ride, as the airport is just 15 kilometers from the site. The bridge's accessibility makes it a must-visit for any tourist.

The history of this structure began in 1887, when it was envisioned as an important railway hub. The cornerstone was laid with the participation of Sir John A. Macdonald, the country's first prime minister. The bridge opened in 1889 and served the Canadian railways faithfully for many years.

However, nature made its own adjustments: in 1935, a massive flood and ice jam severely damaged the structure. The bridge took on its modern appearance in 1938, when it was completely rebuilt. The site’s second birth occurred in 1997, when the decision was made to transform it into an exclusive pedestrian zone as part of the Millennium project.

The bridge received its current name in 2008 in honor of Bill Thorpe — an outstanding teacher and politician who is rightfully called the "father" of Fredericton's trail system. In 2019, an extensive restoration costing over $4 million was carried out, which allowed the structure to be strengthened and guaranteed its preservation for many more decades.

For a standard visit to the attraction, 1 to 2 hours is quite enough. During this time, you can leisurely walk across the bridge in both directions, take a series of great photos, and take a short break while admiring the flow of the Saint John River.

If you plan to include the bridge in a larger trail route or stop by Carleton Park, it is worth setting aside half a day. This will allow you to fully experience the city's calm pace of life and enjoy nature without any rush.

The Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge is open to the public 24 hours a day, every day. It has no gates or strict closing schedules, making it an ideal place for both watching the sunrise and contemplating the evening lights of the city.

The bridge is open 24/7 year-round; however, in case of very poor weather, tourists are advised to check information on official city resources before visiting to ensure a safe walk.

Fredericton is famous for its compact size, so walking across the bridge is a great opportunity to see other iconic spots in the city. The surrounding area is rich in historical monuments and cultural sites that help visitors better understand the region's heritage.

Many interesting locations are literally just a few steps or a short bike ride away, allowing you to create a packed sightseeing itinerary for the entire day.