Big Dam Bridge Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism


Explore the beautiful surroundings of Little Rock and enjoy wonderful views of the Arkansas River and Murray Lock and Dam from atop this iconic bridge.

The Big Dam Bridge is the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America that has never been used by cars or trains. Spanning a total of 4,226 feet (1,288 meters), it connects over 14 miles (22 kilometers) of scenic riverside trails, with Murray Park at its southern end and Cook’s Landing Park at its northern tip. Spend a day walking or cycling the Arkansas River Trail and use the bridge as a gateway between Little Rock and North Little Rock.

Elevated 90 feet (27 meters) over the Arkansas River and 30 feet (9 meters) over the dam, the bridge is a sight to behold. Take advantage of excellent photo opportunities available from both on and underneath the bridge and spend some time admiring the incredible feat of engineering involved in the bridge’s construction. It consists of nearly 700 feet (200 meters) of embankments and contains over 3 million pounds (1.4 million kilograms) of steel.

Appreciate the juxtaposition of the beautiful ancient natural surroundings with the immense modern metal structure before you. Once on the bridge, stop for a moment and close your eyes to enjoy the sound of rushing water below your feet.

Climb the bridge around sunset for spectacular views of the shimmering waters of Murray Lake and the Arkansas River, set against the backdrop of Little Rock’s bustling city center. The bridge can be crowded and hot during the day in summer months, so consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon during this time of year. Make sure to bring water to stay hydrated.

Big Dam Bridge is open daily and has no admission fee. It is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) or a 15-minute drive from Little Rock’s city center. It is pet friendly and has a public restroom near the bridge on the northern side of the river. While the bridge has handrails, be sure to exercise caution with young children as they walk along the high structure.

Popular places to visit


Top Big Dam Bridge Hotel & Accommodation Deals

The Golden Retreat
The Golden Retreat
Little Rock
The Golden Retreat
Elegant 2BR Midtown Condo W/ Flair
Elegant 2BR Midtown Condo W/ Flair
Little Rock
Elegant 2BR Midtown Condo W/ Flair
Embassy Suites Little Rock
Embassy Suites Little Rock
3.5 out of 5
11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR
Embassy Suites Little Rock
Midtown Gem:Spacious 3-Bd in Highly-Ranked Area
Midtown Gem:Spacious 3-Bd in Highly-Ranked Area
Little Rock
Midtown Gem:Spacious 3-Bd in Highly-Ranked Area
Charming Midtown 2-bedroom house in excellent Neighborhood
Charming Midtown 2-bedroom house in excellent Neighborhood
2 out of 5
Little Rock
Charming Midtown 2-bedroom house in excellent Neighborhood
Little Rock Home ~ 5 Mi to Downtown!
Little Rock Home ~ 5 Mi to Downtown!
Little Rock
Little Rock Home ~ 5 Mi to Downtown!
Little Rock Home ~ 5 Mi to Downtown!
Little Rock Home ~ 5 Mi to Downtown!
3 out of 5
Little Rock
Little Rock Home ~ 5 Mi to Downtown!
NEW! Heights private garage apartment!
NEW! Heights private garage apartment!
2 out of 5
Little Rock
NEW! Heights private garage apartment!
Newly Restored 2BR Heights Cottage
Newly Restored 2BR Heights Cottage
Little Rock
Newly Restored 2BR Heights Cottage
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.