24/10/2026
Intersteing policy development in the US in relation to bike access in National Parks...
The National Park Service has proposed the most notable change to its bicycle rules since the current rule was adopted in 2012.
Currently, opening even an existing park trail to bikes requires several bike-specific procedural steps that do not apply to other recreation uses.
The changes proposed on September 1 would allow parks to evaluate bike access through the same planning and environmental review used for other recreational use decisions, while preserving a more rigorous review process for previously undeveloped areas.
This could improve opportunities for bike access that enhance connectivity and visitor experience. Appropriate bike access can improve trail continuity, connect gateway communities, provide transportation options, and expand sustainable ways for visitors' experiences in national parks.
IMBA closely analyzed this proposal for potential vulnerabilities and unintended consequences as well as its intention to simplify procedures.
It is a common-sense update.
IMBA is recommending two main improvements regarding e-bikes and sustainable trails: on trails, opening access to traditional bikes shouldn’t automatically open access to e-bikes, and shared recreational trails should be limited to Class 1 e-bikes.
And, the revisions should strengthen sustainable design principles by referencing agency standards. These criteria can strengthen public confidence that bike access decisions would be sustainable, well-managed, and context-sensitive.
No trails would open automatically. The proposal changes the process a park uses to evaluate bike access. Many National Park Service trails and landscapes are – and will remain – managed primarily or exclusively for hiking, backpacking, resource protection, or other uses.
The public can comment on these revisions through November 2. Read IMBA’s summary and full analysis: https://www.imba.com/press-release/easing-barriers-bike-access-national-parks
