Electric Bicycles (e-bikes) in National Parks

Two men pose with red bikes on treeless mountain trail
The new e-bike policy expands recreational opportunities and accessibility.

Photo courtesy of the Sheldon family

The National Park Service (NPS) final regulation governing the use of e-bikes in units of the National Park System published in the Federal Register on November 2, 2020,became effective on December 2, 2020. View the final regulations on the Federal Register. This final rule publication also includes the comment summaries and responses as part of the preamble.

As e-bikes become more popular both on and off NPS-managed lands, the NPS recognized the need to address this emerging form of recreation and active transportation in its regulations. The intent of this action is to address an emerging technology in a manner that accommodates visitors and increases opportunities for the public to recreate within and travel through the National Park System, while at the same time protecting the resources and values that draw millions of visitors each year.

The regulation defines the term “electric bicycle” and authorize superintendents to allow e-bikes, where appropriate, on roads and trails where traditional bicycles are also allowed. Read the Frequently Asked Questions below for more information about the rule.

The final regulation supports Secretary’s Order 3376 (1.52MB PDF), signed by U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt on August 29, 2019, that directs Department of the Interior (DOI) bureaus to revise their regulations to define the term electric bicycle and expressly exempt e-bikes from the definition of motor vehicle. The final regulation also supports Secretary’s Order 3366 (93.3KB PDF) by increasing recreational opportunities on public lands.
The final regulations enhances fun and healthy recreational opportunities for visitors to national parks and supports active transportation options.

  • 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.

Local communities, NPS staff, and partners continue to work together to determine best practices and guidance for e-bike use in parks. Superintendents retain the right to limit, restrict, or impose conditions on e-bike use to ensure visitor safety and resource protection. Be sure to check with the park you are visiting for details about where e-bikes are allowed and any other rules that apply to their use. As with traditional bicycles, e-bikes are not allowed in wilderness areas.

Safety

When riding e-bikes in national parks, follow all applicable rules for the park and the local jurisdiction. This may include organized group size restrictions, permitting requirements, local helmet laws, sharing the road and more. In addition, be aware of these important safety considerations:

  • Mount and dismount the e-bike carefully. The weight of the battery and motor assist technology can add 20 or more pounds to the weight of the bike.

  • Ensure you have and wear proper bicycle safety equipment (e.g., a helmet, brightly colored and reflective clothing, and bicycle lighting)

  • Carry route maps and be familiar with relevant park information.

  • Know where to bike safely and where biking may NOT be allowed.

  • Obey all rules of the road and the trails, including observing stop signs and speed limits.

  • Pay attention to vehicle traffic and other users of the pathway.

  • Check with park staff to know when to avoid high volumes of traffic and trail users. Slow down at intersections. Make eye contact with other drivers before crossing intersections.

  • Use the NPS Trip Planning Guide and Checklist to help plan your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: December 6, 2023