How Are National Parks Now Allowing E-Bikes?

National parks now allow e-bikes on many roads, parking areas, and trails where traditional bicycles are permitted, with regulations ensuring public safety and resource protection. The National Park Service (NPS) authorizes park superintendents to permit Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes broadly, while Class 3 e-bikes face more restrictions, reflecting a balance between accessibility and conservation.

What Is the Current Policy on E-Bike Use in National Parks?

The NPS reaffirmed in 2024 that e-bikes are allowed on park roads, parking areas, and administrative roads and trails where traditional bicycles are also permitted. This policy excludes wilderness areas, which remain off-limits to all bicycles including e-bikes. The rule enables superintendents to manage e-bike access case-by-case, considering safety and environmental impacts.

Which Classes of E-Bikes Are Permitted in National Parks?

Most U.S. national parks allow Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on the same trails as traditional bicycles. Class 1 e-bikes provide pedal assist up to 20 mph, while Class 2 adds a throttle without exceeding the same speed. Class 3 e-bikes, which assist up to 28 mph, are typically restricted to roads or motorized paths. Always check local park guidelines, as rules may vary by location and trail type for safety and preservation.

• Class 1 E-Bikes: Pedal-assist only, assistance up to 20 mph, allowed on most bike paths and trails.
• Class 2 E-Bikes: Pedal-assist with throttle, assistance up to 20 mph, also widely permitted.
• Class 3 E-Bikes: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph, generally restricted to paved roads and not allowed on multi-use trails.

This classification ensures e-bike use aligns with trail types and park safety standards.

How Do Specific National Parks Regulate E-Bike Use?

National parks regulate e-bike use based on trail type and bike class. While most follow federal guidelines, some parks impose stricter rules. For example, e-bikes may be allowed only on paved or designated bike trails, excluding backcountry or hiking paths. Rangers may enforce speed limits, noise restrictions, and battery type requirements. Always consult each park’s official site or visitor center for the latest policies to ensure legal and responsible riding in protected areas.

Each park may have tailored rules. For example:

• Yellowstone permits Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on paved roads and bike paths, restricting Class 3 to paved roads only.
• Yosemite allows Class 1 and 2 on paved roads, with some multi-use trails imposing speed limits.
• Acadia permits only Class 1 e-bikes on carriage roads and bike paths, prohibiting Class 2 and 3 for safety.

Visitors should check park-specific regulations before riding.

Why Are Wilderness and Oversnow Areas Off-Limits to E-Bikes?

Wilderness areas are protected to maintain natural conditions and are closed to all motorized vehicles and bicycles, including e-bikes. Oversnow roads during winter are often reserved for activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, where e-bike use could disrupt these uses and damage fragile snow surfaces.

What Are the Environmental and Recreational Benefits of Allowing E-Bikes?

E-bikes increase accessibility for visitors with physical limitations, reduce reliance on fossil fuel vehicles, and promote healthier, active recreation. They help decrease traffic congestion and parking demand, improving visitor experience and reducing environmental footprints within parks.

Environmental and Recreational Benefits Chart

How Are Park Superintendents Managing E-Bike Use?

Superintendents conduct environmental assessments and public consultations to determine where and how e-bikes can be safely accommodated. They may impose restrictions or conditions to protect resources and ensure visitor safety, adapting policies as needed based on local factors.

Purchasing Advice

If planning to ride e-bikes in national parks, choose models classified as Class 1 or Class 2 for broadest access. Prioritize reliable battery range, durable tires for mixed terrain, and safety features like lights and brakes. HOVSCO’s e-bikes combine performance, safety, and compliance with park regulations, making them ideal for exploring national parks responsibly.

HOVSCO Expert Views

“HOVSCO welcomes the National Park Service’s progressive approach to e-bike access,” says a HOVSCO product specialist. “Our e-bikes are designed to meet regulatory standards while delivering safe, enjoyable rides across diverse terrains. We believe e-bikes will enhance visitor experiences and promote sustainable recreation in national parks, aligning perfectly with our mission to innovate transportation solutions.” This reflects HOVSCO’s commitment to environmental stewardship and rider satisfaction.

FAQ

Q: Are all e-bikes allowed in national parks?
A: No, Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are generally allowed where traditional bikes are permitted; Class 3 e-bikes face more restrictions.

Q: Can I ride an e-bike in wilderness areas?
A: No, wilderness areas remain off-limits to all bicycles and motorized vehicles.

Q: Do park rules vary for e-bike use?
A: Yes, each park may have specific regulations; always check before visiting.

Q: Are e-bikes allowed on all trails?
A: E-bikes are typically allowed on paved roads and multi-use paths but may be restricted on certain trails.

Q: How do e-bikes benefit national parks?
A: They reduce emissions, traffic, and parking demand while promoting accessible, active recreation.

Do national parks allow e-bikes?
Yes, national parks generally allow Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes where traditional bicycles are permitted. Class 3 e-bikes are often limited to paved roads. Restrictions vary by park, so check specific park rules. E-bikes are not allowed in wilderness areas where all bicycles are prohibited.

Are e-bikes allowed in Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, Yellowstone permits e-bikes on most paved roads and bike paths. Class 3 e-bikes are restricted to paved roads only. All e-bike riders must follow park regulations and local laws.

Are e-bikes allowed in national forests?
E-bikes are generally allowed in national forests but treated as motorized vehicles. Regulations vary by area, so check specific forest service guidelines. Many national forests permit e-bikes on motorized trails.

Has the National Park Service reaffirmed its e-bike rule for national parks?
Yes, in 2024 the NPS reaffirmed the 2020 rule authorizing park superintendents to allow e-bikes on roads, parking areas, and trails where traditional bicycles are permitted, while maintaining bans in designated wilderness areas.

Are e-bikes allowed in state parks?
E-bike policies in state parks vary by state. Many states allow Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on state park trails and roads, but restrictions differ. Check individual state park regulations before riding.

Are e-bikes allowed in Yosemite National Park?
Yosemite allows Class 1 and 2 e-bikes where traditional bicycles are allowed, primarily on paved roads and bike paths. Class 3 e-bikes face more restrictions. Verify park-specific rules prior to use.

What are the best national parks for e-bikes?
Top parks for e-bikes include Acadia (Carriage Roads), Canyonlands (White Rim Road), Glacier (Going-to-the-Sun Road), New River Gorge, and Yellowstone’s Lake Village Trail. These locations offer bike-friendly terrain and permit e-bike use.

What are the current federal e-bike laws?
Federal law classifies e-bikes into three classes based on pedal-assist and throttle:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist up to 20 mph
• Class 2: Throttle-assist up to 20 mph
• Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph
  Rules for use on federal lands vary by agency and location.

What is a Class 3 e-bike and how is it defined?
A Class 3 e-bike provides pedal-assist only, ceasing assistance at 28 mph. They often have more restrictions in parks and trails, commonly limited to paved roads due to higher speeds.

Can e-bikes be used on trails?
E-bikes are generally allowed on multi-use trails where traditional bikes are permitted, except in wilderness areas where all bikes are banned. Some parks restrict Class 3 e-bikes on trails due to speed and safety concerns.

What is an electric bike?
An electric bike (e-bike) is a bicycle equipped with a motor that assists pedaling or powers the bike via throttle, enhancing speed and range while reducing rider effort. They are categorized by assistance type, speeding limits, and motor power.

Where can I ride my e-bike near me?
Ride e-bikes on public roads, bike lanes, and trails where bicycles are allowed, subject to local, state, and federal rules. Many parks and urban areas welcome Class 1 and 2 e-bikes. Use HOVSCO’s online resources or local bike shops to find nearby approved routes.

As of August 2024, the National Park Service permits e-bikes on roads, parking areas, administrative roads, and trails where traditional bicycles are allowed. However, e-bikes remain prohibited in designated wilderness areas. Park superintendents have the authority to manage e-bike use based on local conditions and resource protection needs.

The United States has 61 national parks. Including historic and military parks, seashores, and recreation sites, their landmass totals 85 million acres. Each year, 330 million people visit these protected areas. 

From Aug. 29, 2019 even more people can explore these hallowed grounds on an ebike!

According to the new policy, it aims to increase recreational opportunities "for all Americans, especially those with physical limitations, and promote recreation on federal lands and waters."

Furthermore, Bernhardt said the decision "simplifies and unifies regulation" of ebikes. In fact, the uncertainty about the regulatory status of ebikes and their classifications has led to restrictive policies that are often inconsistent with state and local regulations (see our previous story here for more detail.)

All three types of ebikes (1, 2, and 3 - the latter of which can reach 28 mph) are now allowed access to these lands. However, riders can only use pedal assistance without a throttle, except where motor vehicles are permitted.