As the popularity of electronic bicycles continues to grow, so does the question of whether or not they should be allowed in national parks. The laws have changed in the last few years, although the issue still doesn’t seem settled once and for all. Here’s how it stands right now.
Yes, e-bikes are allowed in some national parks, within limits. While some national parks do allow electronic bicycles, others do not, and there are limitations on the size of motor that is allowed and the areas where the e-bike can be ridden.
We’ve looked at the changes in regulations over the past couple of years. They’ve changed more than once and there could be future changes on the horizon. Here’s what you need to know about e-bikes in national parks.
What is an E-bike?
First off, we have to know what we’re talking about when we ask if e-bikes are permitted in national parks. So let’s define what an e-bike actually is.
What is an e-bike? The National Park Service defines an e-bike as “a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts that provides propulsion assistance.”
Under this rule, electronic bicycles must have a motor that is less than 750 watts and only assists the rider when they are pedaling. In addition, there is maximum speed of the electronic bicycles. What is it? It depends on what class of e-bike it is.
What are the Three Classes of E-bikes?
According to the National Park Service, not all e-bikes are created equal. The National Park Service defines three different classes of e-bikes.
- Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that only activates when the rider is pedaling and cuts off at 20 mph.
- Class 2 e-bikes have a throttle on them in addition to the pedal-assist motor, which allows the rider to go up to 20 mph without pedaling.
- Class 3 e-bikes have a speed limit of 28 mph and can be operated without pedaling.
As you can see, the higher the class, the more power and speed the e-bike has. But the National Park Service hasn’t made these distinctions without a reason. And when you’re purchasing an e-bike, it’s not likely to say which class the bike fits into. You’ll need to look at the specifications to know which class it is.
But as we’ll see, whether or not you can ride an e-bike is dependent on a few different factors, not limited to what class of e-bike you’re riding. Let’s take a look at some others.
Rules Changes Allowing E-Bikes
E-bikes have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer a convenient alternative to driving and can help reduce pollution and congestion. However, electronic bicycles are not allowed in all national parks, and there are some restrictions on where they can be ridden.
Until 2020, electronic bicycles, or “e-bikes” were not permitted in national parks at all. However, in 2020 the National Park Service (NPS) released a new rule that allowed electric bicycles in national parks, as long as they followed certain guidelines. These guidelines include having a motor that is less than 750 watts and only assists the rider when they are pedaling. In addition, the maximum speed of the electronic bicycle must be less than 20 miles per hour.
When discussing the change, the reasons given included:
- E-bikes make bicycle travel easier and more efficient because they allow bicyclists to travel farther with less effort.
- E-bikes provide expanded options for visitors who wish to ride a bicycle but may be limited because of physical fitness, age, disability, or convenience.
- When used as an alternative to gasoline- or diesel-powered modes of transportation, e-bikes can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption, improve air quality, and support active modes of transportation for park staff and visitors.
- Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes can decrease traffic congestion, reduce demand for vehicle parking spaces, and increase the number and visibility of cyclists on the road.
Clarification or Confusion?
After the change of rule allowing e-bikes in 2020, the National Park Service sought to clarify for its park superintendents just what the law was. Arguably, this led to even more confusion.
In 2021, the acting director of the National Park Service issues a memorandum directing park superintendents that “It is important that superintendents use their discretion under the e-bike regulation to decide whether, where, and under what conditions e-bike use is appropriate, and to manage e-bikes based on the specific conditions at their park unit. Using this discretion is appropriate given the broad and varied nature of specific conditions in park units”.
This seemed to depart from the blanket permission of e-bikes to being one to be made by each individual park administrator.
Under the new guidance, the superintendent of each park is responsible for determining whether or not to allow e-bikes in the park. This decision often depends on factors such as the type of terrain and biodiversity in the park, as well as visitor safety.
Each superintendent also has the power to limit what class of e-bikes are allowed in the park. They also have the power to prohibit e-bike access if it would negatively affect the park’s resources or other visitors. According to a memo sent by the National Park Service that was sent to park administrators and others “The e-bike regulation makes clear that superintendents have the discretion to allow, or not to allow, e-bike use on park roads, parking areas, administrative roads, and trails that are otherwise open to bicycles based on visitor and resource considerations.”
Where Can You Ride an E-bike?
And while electronic bicycles are allowed in national parks, there are limitations on where they can be ridden. For example, electronic bicycles are not allowed on trails that are designated for hiking only. In addition, some national parks have roads that are closed to electronic bicycles.
Also, riding bikes of any kind is prohibited in wilderness areas.
Before heading out on your electronic bicycle, be sure to check the rules and regulations of the national park you will be visiting to ensure that you are following all of the guidelines.
Future Developments
In 2021 a lawsuit was filed challenging the change in regulations for electronic bicycles. The lawsuit contended that electronic bicycles are motorized vehicles and should be subject to the same regulations as other motorized vehicles in national parks, including having a permit to drive. The court is still considering this case, so it is unclear whether electronic bicycles will continue to be allowed in national parks moving forward.
The electronic bicycle debate is likely to continue in the coming years, as more people use them and more national parks grapple with how to regulate them. For now, if you are planning on bringing an electronic bicycle on your next national park vacation, be sure to do your research and follow all of the rules and regulations to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Alternatives to National Parks
Although there are certain restrictions on where you can ride e-bikes, there are alternatives to national parks where you can ride them. For example, electronic bicycles are allowed in most state parks. You’ll need to check with the jurisdiction in which you’ll be riding.
National Forests
E-bikes are also permitted in national forests. However, they are not allowed in wilderness areas and certain other protected areas. According to the Forest Service “Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes are allowed on motorized trails and roads on national forests and grasslands.”
BLM Land
Land administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) usually has less restrictions on a wide array of activities, from flying drones, to camping to bike access.
BLM-managed public lands offer many opportunities for e-bike riding, including any area or trail where OHVs are currently allowed. BLM offices also have the authority to identify which non-motorized trails could be used by e-bikers on BLM managed grounds and will work with users in accordance with applicable laws & regulations such as “e-bike rule”.
The agency must consider the potential impact of electronic bicycles on the environment and wildlife. While the BLM has not yet released any proposed regulations, it is clear that electronic bicycles will be subject to some form of regulation on public lands. This is necessary to ensure that all user groups can enjoy these lands safely and responsibly.
Conclusion
Overall, the question of whether electronic bicycles are allowed in national parks remains somewhat controversial. While they offer an alternative to driving, some people are concerned about their safety and the impact they may have on the environment. If you are thinking of bringing electronic bicycles on your next national park vacation, it is important to do your research and stay up-to-date on any new regulations or changes in the rules.
It’s also important to understand that right now the regulations provide a patchwork of different rules and very much place the decision in the hands of individual park administrators. Whatever you do, make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules of whichever park you’ll be visiting.
