E-Bikes Now Allowed On Colorado National Park Trails: Report

ACROSS COLORADO, CO — Those enjoying a serene walk in one of Colorado’s national parks might soon be sharing the trails with electric bicycles in addition to standard bicycles, according to a new national policy. The policy, announced last week by the National Park Service, is expected to expand recreational opportunities and accessibility in parks by allowing the use of e-bikes.

The new policy supports an order signed last week by U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt that directs Department of the Interior bureaus to create a clear and consistent e-bike policy on all federal lands managed by the department. While a majority of states have already adopted e-bike policies, according to the NPS announcement, the national policy seeks to provide some consistency to state rules.

The new policy allows national park visitors to use e-bikes — defined as low-speed electric bicycles with power assistance — in the same manner as traditional bicycles. This allows e-bikes on park roads, paved or hardened trails, areas designated for off-road motor vehicle use and administrative roads.

The operator of an e-bike may only use the motor to assist pedal propulsion, the policy says, and the motor may not be used to propel an e-bike without the rider also pedaling, except in locations open to public motor vehicle traffic. Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes are not allowed in designated wilderness areas, the policy says. Park superintendents also retain the right to limit, restrict or impose conditions of bicycle use and e-bike use to ensure visitor safety and resource protection.

The policy drew mixed reactions from Colorado residents and visitors, Denver7 reported. While some worry the e-bikes may cause traffic and safety issues, some think the new policy is a good idea to increase accessibility in parks.

Over the coming month, park superintendents will work with their local communities, staff and partners to determine best practices and guidance for e-bike use in their parks.

National Park Service Deputy Director P. Daniel Smith said he hopes parks are responsive and welcoming to the new technology as it provides an option for people who want to ride a bicycle but might not be able to because of physical fitness, age, disability or convenience.