Biking

 

When Two Wheels Are All You Need

Bicyclists are welcome to ride at Lake Mead National Recreation Area on park roads and on routes designated for bicycle use. Approved backcountry roads are designated routes and are marked with a yellow arrow sign with a number on it.

Biking through national parks is a great way to see beautiful scenery and discover new places. Cyclists can travel by roads (which are sometimes car-free) and on select trails.

 

Important Information

Tips For a Fun & Safe Day

• Mount and dismount the bike carefully. The added weight of some e-bike batteries and motor assist technology can add 20 or more pounds to the weight of the bike.
• Make yourself visible. Wear bright-colored and reflective clothes.
• Wear a helmet while riding.
• Obey speed limits. Some e-bikes may exceed park speed limits with the motor engaged.
• Pay attention to traffic.
• Slow down at intersections. Make eye contact with other drivers before crossing the intersection.
• Don't forget to hydrate.

E-Bikes

E-bikes are allowed everywhere traditional bicycles are allowed in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This includes all park roads currently open to motor vehicles. This policy enhances fun and healthy recreational opportunities for visitors to our national parks and supports active transportation options.

• The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 horsepower).
• 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 the demand for vehicle parking spaces, and increase the number and visibility of cyclists on the road.
• Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.

Safety information and Frequently Asked Questions can be found on the Electric Bicycles in National Parks website. Some roads are better for cycling than others. Check at the Lake Mead Visitor Center for recommendations and road conditions.

Entrance Fees

Bicycles are subject to the Entrance Fee Requirements at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. A daily pass (valid for 1-7 days) for individuals can be purchased for $15 from entrance stations located throughout the park, or at the Park Headquarters lobby front desk in Boulder City, Nevada. Annual Passes can also be used for bicycles. Please keep your pass with you as you ride through the park. For more information on Entrance Fees in the park, please visit our Fees and Passes page.

Prohibited Behavior

If you plan to ride at the park, please be aware of the rules in Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulation, as the following are prohibited:

1. Possessing a bicycle in a designated wilderness area established by Federal statute.
2. Operating a bicycle during periods of low visibility, or while traveling through a tunnel, or between sunset and sunrise, without exhibiting on the operator or bicycle a white light or reflector that is visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and with a red light or reflector visible from at least 200 feet to the rear.
3. Operating a bicycle abreast of another bicycle except where authorized by the superintendent.
4. Operating a bicycle while consuming an alcoholic beverage or carrying in hand an open container of an alcoholic beverage.

Also, please use extreme caution when bicycling on park roads as some areas have low visibility, no shoulder and are steep with windy turns. Please stay on the roads so our fragile desert soils stay protected.

It is always a good idea to carry plenty of water, cycle with a friend, and let someone know your itinerary.