Bikes Get Green Light on 25 Miles of Park Trails
Published Date: 7/30/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The National Park Service (NPS) proposes to issue special regulations for First State National Historical Park to allow for bicycle use on approximately 25 miles of trails within the Brandywine Valley unit of the park.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
About 25 Miles Opened to Biking
The rule would allow the Superintendent to designate approximately 25 miles of trails in the Brandywine Valley unit for bicycle use, including 12 named trails and 51 connector trails (connector trails average about 0.2 miles). The table in the rule lists the 12 named trails and shows the connector trails as C1 through C51 with cumulative mileage.
New Trails and Upgrades Planned
Under the selected action from the park's Environmental Assessment, the NPS would construct about 8.5 miles of new shared-use trails and perform site-specific modifications and upgrades on 15 miles of existing trails to improve durability and accommodate bicycling. The EA and FONSI support these construction and upgrade plans.
Closure and Restoration of 8.1 Miles
The NPS would close and restore to natural condition a total of 8.1 miles of trails that are in poor condition, contribute to erosion, are unsafe, dead-end at private property, or otherwise fail to provide a high-quality user experience. Final alignments may vary based on field surveys and consultations.
E‑Bike Class Rules on Trails
The rule says public roads, administrative roads, and trails open to traditional bicycles are also open to electric bicycles that meet the NPS definition (motors ≤ 750 watts). Class 1 and class 3 e-bikes are allowed wherever traditional bicycles are allowed, but class 2 e-bikes are not allowed on the trail network.
No Small-Business Compliance Burden; Visitor Boost
The NPS certifies the proposed rule will not generate new costs, fees, operational requirements, training, recordkeeping, or other compliance burdens for small businesses or organizations. The rule also states that expanded and improved bicycling opportunities are expected to increase recreational visitation and may benefit nearby small businesses through increased visitor spending.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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