Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Ohio River Greenway is an ambitious trail system planned to stretch across multiple communities bordering the Ohio River, primarily within Indiana and Kentucky. It connects parks, cultural sites, and neighborhoods from New Albany and Jeffersonville in Indiana, extending eastward into Louisville and beyond in Kentucky. The Greenway offers users a mix of paved and natural-surface multi-use trails primarily designed for walking, biking, and running, with stunning views of the Ohio River and an array of public spaces along its route. Ecologically, the corridor includes riparian habitats that support a variety of riverine and woodland species, providing a relatively urban-adjacent opportunity for wildlife observation. The project builds upon the existing riverfront revitalization efforts to enhance recreational access and community connectivity. Key landmarks along the trail include public parks such as McAlpine Locks and Dam Park and the popular Big Four Bridge, a pedestrian and bicycle bridge linking Louisville and Jeffersonville. The Greenway promotes outdoor activity and alternative transportation while preserving natural spaces along the riverbank. Visitor appeal stems from the combination of outdoor exercise, scenic river vistas, public art installations, and cultural attractions like historic districts. As sections continue to open, the Greenway is becoming central to regional outdoor recreation, event programming, and community engagement along the Ohio River corridor.
