Originally constructed in 1895, the bridge was named for the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis Railway, colloquially known as the Big Four.
The structure fell into disuse in the late 1960s after the rail traffic ceased, remaining closed to the public for over four decades before its 2013 pedestrian renovation.
The bridge's unique design features a 'through-truss' configuration, where the deck is suspended within the structural steel framework.
During the renovation process, the original railroad deck was removed and replaced with a concrete path suitable for walkers and cyclists.
The bridge is one of the longest pedestrian-only spans in the United States.
The Big Four Bridge is a former railroad truss bridge converted into a pedestrian and bicycle crossing spanning the Ohio River between Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana. The structure consists of six spans, stretching approximately 2,500 feet across the water. It serves as a vital connection point between Louisville’s Waterfront Park and the Ashland Park area in Jeffersonville. The bridge is equipped with an LED lighting system that displays synchronized color patterns after sunset. It is a strictly non-motorized thoroughfare, prohibiting cars and commercial vehicles. It provides elevated vantage points for viewing both the Louisville skyline and the river traffic below. The bridge functions as a key component of the Louisville Loop, a multi-modal regional trail system.
The center of the bridge at dusk, looking back toward the Louisville skyline.
Bring a bicycle to traverse the full length between Kentucky and Indiana quickly.
Carry a light jacket even in summer, as river winds can make the bridge significantly cooler than the surrounding city.
Check the Waterfront Park website for occasional scheduled maintenance closures before planning your trip.
Do not attempt to walk to the bridge from the downtown core without checking the distance, as it is a significant trek from the main hotel district.
Stay to the right to allow faster cyclists and runners to pass; keep pets on a short leash.
