NPS Ditches Red Tape to Unleash Bikes in National Parks
Published Date: 9/1/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The National Park Service (NPS) proposes to modify the procedural requirements in existing NPS regulations for the designation of roads and trails for bicycle use within park areas. The changes would align NPS regulations with applicable Federal law and policy, remove unnecessary requirements, and ensure public involvement when needed. The changes in this rule would allow the NPS to manage its resources and allocate taxpayer funds more efficiently and streamline the approval of new and expanded opportunities for use and enjoyment of park areas by the American public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
E‑Bikes Allowed on Park Roads
The rule would allow bicycles and electric bicycles (e‑bikes) on park roads and in parking areas that are otherwise open for motor vehicle use by the general public. This change removes the need for superintendents to take affirmative action to designate e‑bikes in those locations, while not changing the status quo for traditional bicycles.
Rulemaking for Natural‑Surface Areas
The NPS must use Federal Register rulemaking before allowing bicycles or e‑bikes in locations that have never been improved by artificial or processed materials (examples include gravel, asphalt, concrete, wood boards, soil cement, and resin‑based material). Rulemaking is also required if the designation would be highly controversial or otherwise significant under 36 CFR 1.5(b).
Permanent Closures Need Special Rule
Permanent closures of park roads or parking areas that are otherwise open to motor vehicle use, and permanent closures of administrative roads, trails, or locations designated by rulemaking, may not remain in effect permanently unless promulgated as a special regulation. The only exception is closures that exist under state law.
Streamlined Approvals, Small Business Gain
The proposed rule rescinds several procedural requirements (including blanket EA/EIS and mandatory planning‑document steps) and would allow appropriate use of categorical exclusions under NEPA. NPS expects reduced administrative costs and says these procedural changes could produce a small increase in recreational visitation, benefiting nearby small businesses through increased visitor spending.
Wilderness and Motor‑Use Limits Stay
The rule keeps existing prohibitions: you may not possess a bicycle or e‑bike in a wilderness area established by Federal statute, and Class‑2 e‑bikes may not use their electric motor exclusively for extended periods except where motor vehicle use by the public is allowed. State law continues to apply to bicycle and e‑bike use except as NPS regulations provide.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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