It's in the Details: Paradise Valley to Robertson Road Bridge

​Trails are gateways to adventure, nature, wellness, the much-loved North Platte River, and the everyday moments that make the community feel connected and alive. Simply put, trails strengthen Casper’s livability by offering safe places to move, explore, learn, and spend time with the people (and dogs) who call this place home. Platte River Trails has a new expansion in the trail network, bridging the gap between the west and the rest of Casper. 

A transformative new connection on Casper’s west side is now complete after years in the making. The Phase II footbridge over the North Platte River has been installed, officially completing the pedestrian bridge portion of this project in March 2026. It connects more than 1,600 feet of 2024-built pathways on both approaches. The bridge will dramatically improve walkability, safe routes to school, and recreational access, plus it includes a mid-bridge bump-out for stopping and enjoying the view.
 
Planning & Development
The Paradise Valley to Robertson Road bridge project has long been a priority for Platte River Trails as part of its effort to extend the River Trail into Casper’s west side. The goal is to create safe, convenient, non-motorized access connecting neighborhoods to important destinations like schools, parks, shopping areas, and workplaces. At the same time, the project was designed to give residents easier access to open spaces and the river corridor for walking, biking, and outdoor recreation right out their front door.
 
Project Design & Construction
The project combines thoughtful design with critical trail infrastructure to expand west-side connectivity to open space and places. The pedestrian foot bridge spans approximately 240 feet across the North Platte River and is 10 feet wide, providing ample space for cyclists, runners, and pedestrians and their pups to pass comfortably. A mid-bridge bump-out offers a place for trail users to stop, enjoy river views, or birdwatch, and includes an accessible design feature to ensure the space can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities.
 
On the west side, the bridge extends about 75 feet to connect with the existing trail along Robertson Road, helping to merge it with the broader trail network. The bridge installation in March 2026 completed the project’s Phase II, building upon more than 1,600 feet of connecting pathway constructed in 2024 on both sides of the river. Westward access from the River Trail at Paradise Valley Park includes use of neighborhood sidewalks (and an eventual designated bike route) along Riverbend Road to Indian Paintbrush Street, continuing to a city-owned lot on Yarrow Street where a 10-foot-wide concrete trail leads directly to the bridge. All said and done, elements in this project create a safe, continuous connection that links neighborhoods to the River Trail while improving walkability, recreational access, and safe, non-motorized transportation through west Casper.
 
Future Outlook
While the bridge installation completes a major phase of the project, work to strengthen trail connections in the area will continue. A future Phase III will strengthen trail connections from Paradise Valley Park to the bridge, further enhancing accessibility and usability for the surrounding community. Long-term plans also envision additional improvements along the riverbank near Robertson Road, including amenities such as benches, picnic tables, potential fishing access, and enhanced open-space features that encourage people to spend time along the river.
 
Platte River Trails is thrilled to host a Ribbon Cutting on Wednesday, April 8th at 4 p.m. to officially open the bridge. A huge thank you is in order for all our partners, including the City of Casper, the Recreation Joint Powers Board, HDR, S&S Builders, and our many donors, for making this project possible. Please join us for the Ribbon Cutting and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for more trail updates.

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