If you’ve ever lost a pet, you probably know the Rainbow Bridge poem. It’s a beautiful image of our beloved animals waiting for us in a peaceful, colorful place until we’re reunited again. Now, there’s a real-life version of the Rainbow Bridge in Apex, North Carolina.
The Town of Apex shared about the bridge the other week on social media so I went to check it out. It’s not something you would just stumble upon unless you regularly use this greenway trail. It’s covered by trees that offer shade over the brightly painted walkway. And while it’s brand new, there are already collars hanging on the rails.
Why the bridge exists
After seeing it for myself, I reached out to the Town of Apex to learn a little more about how this project started.
“This was a community request presented by a council member through our administration. The location was chosen due to the size of the boardwalk—we wanted to ensure there was ample space for longevity. We wanted to provide a dedicated place in Apex for people to honor and remember their beloved four-legged friends.”
And that’s exactly what people are already doing. Some people have hung their pup’s used collars. Some appear to be new. I thought about bringing my heart dog Baxter’s collar, but like having it on display at home. So I do like the idea of getting another collar to hang in his memory.
The one that got me was a harness with the message: “Sylvie Girl: We loved you more than life itself. You are missed everyday.”
The town encourages residents to not only leave a collar at the Rainbow Bridge, but to also make a donation to the Play It Forward scholarship fund in honor of their pet. This fund helps remove barriers so more families can access Apex Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources programs—another beautiful way to carry your pet’s legacy forward.
I think bridge also holds added significance because one of the most famous Rainbow Bridges (and the only real-life one I’ve heard of) was washed away during Hurricane Helene in Lake Lure, NC. It was beloved by pet owners and often shared online as a place of comfort and remembrance. Sadly, that bridge was destroyed by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. The town does have a temporary one in place.
Knowing that Apex has created a similar space, thoughtfully, intentionally, and for the long term is a gift to our community. Because pets aren’t just animals. They are family.
How to get to the Rainbow Bridge in Apex
This isn’t a big, commercial park with signs and parking lots. You won’t find a “Rainbow Bridge” on Google Maps (yet). But that’s kind of what makes it special—it’s tucked away, peaceful, and personal.
Here’s how to find the Rainbow Bridge:
- Park at Kohl’s on Beaver Creek Commons Drive. It’s the most convenient option with sidewalk access.
- From the parking lot turn right. It’s about a 1-minute walk to the greenway entrance.
- Once you’re on the trail, it’s a 5-minute walk to the Rainbow Bridge. Google Maps says it takes ten minutes, but that’s if you are really enjoying the scenery.
- You’ll pass a cell phone tower about halfway there. It’s a good landmark to know you’re on the right path.
- The bridge itself is hard to miss. Rainbow-painted planks and gently swaying pet collars will guide you the rest of the way.
The trail is paved, flat, and easy for strollers or leashed dogs.
While you could park at Target nearby, there’s no sidewalk connecting to the greenway entrance from there.
Whether your heart is still healing or you simply want to take a quiet walk and reflect, I hope you’ll make time to visit the Rainbow Bridge in Apex. Bring a collar. Say a prayer. Or just take a moment to whisper “thank you” for the love our pets give us so freely.
I shared a short Reel on Instagram so you can see what the trail looks like and exactly how to get there. I hope it helps others find their way to this beautiful little piece of comfort in Apex.
And if you’ve walked the bridge or plan to visit, I’d love to hear about it. ❤️
If you have recently lost a pet, I’m so sorry. Here are some ways to help find peace in the parting.