With crowded roads and parking lots, e-bikes are becoming an increasingly popular way to navigate national parks.
After a public comment period and programmatic environmental assessment to examine the potential impacts of e-bike use, they gave a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).
This reaffirms park superintendents’ authority to allow visitors to use electric bicycles (e-bikes) in national parks on a case-by-case basis, consistent with public safety and consideration of natural and cultural resources, according to a park release.
The first rule on e-bikes was released in 2020, which authorized superintendents to allow e-bike use where appropriate in the parks. It also ensured that NPS must manage e-bike usage in a manner that protects park resources, values and visitors. As superintendents determine how to implement e-bike use and restrictions, they consider public health and safety, natural and cultural resource protection, and other management activities and objectives.
E-bikes are currently allowed on park roads, parking areas, and administrative roads and trails where traditional bicycles are also allowed. Public lands designated by Congress as “wilderness areas” remain off-limits to both traditional bicycles and e-bikes.
NPS has reported benefits of e-bike usage in the parks including expanding access for those with physical limitations, supporting clean transportation and reducing vehicle congestion within parks, and providing healthy recreation opportunities.
E-bikes have become common at popular biking destinations in the parks, including Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park and the Carriage Roads in Acadia National Park. Many e-bike rental companies have set up shop near park entrances to provide services for visitors.
Visit individual park websites to learn about e-bike use in the park you’re visiting.
