Electric Mountain Bikes on Utah's Trails

Electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) are a growing part of Utah's vibrant outdoor recreation scene, offering new ways to explore our diverse landscapes. To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable experience for all trail users, it's crucial to understand the regulations governing eMTB use on public lands. This page provides an overview of electric mountain bike classifications and where they are generally permitted in Utah.

Always check with the specific land management agency (e.g., U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Utah State Parks, counties, cities) for the most current and detailed rules for the trails you plan to ride. Regulations can vary by jurisdiction and even by individual trail and may change between your visits.

Electric Mountain Bike Classifications in Utah

Utah law defines electric bicycles into three classes based on their motor assistance and speed capabilities. These classifications are key to understanding where each type of electric mountain bike is allowed, as they also mirror the federal classes of e-bikes.

Where Can I Ride My Electric Mountain Bike?

Trail access for eMTBs in Utah depends on the trail's designation and the land management agency. Generally, eMTBs are treated as motorized vehicles on federal lands unless explicitly designated otherwise.

General Guidelines for Electric Mountain Bike Access:

• Motorized Trails: All classes of electric mountain bikes are generally allowed on trails open to motorized vehicles (e.g., OHV trails). Examples include: Slickrock Trail in Moab is open to motorcycles and, therefore, open to all classes of e-bikes. 
• Non-Motorized Trails: On trails specifically designated as non-motorized (e.g., traditional mountain bike trails, hiking trails), eMTBs are generally NOT allowed unless explicitly permitted by the land manager. Examples include Utah State Park non-motorized singletrack trails like WOW Trail in the Heber Valley. 
• Paved Paths/Bike Lanes: All classes of electric mountain bikes are generally allowed on paved bike paths and lanes; however, some exceptions do exist, so be sure to research ahead of time, check with the land manager and keep an eye out for signage.

Land Management Agency Policies:

• U.S. Forest Service (USFS):
  Electric mountain bikes are generally considered motorized vehicles and are restricted to motorized trails. Some individual forest districts may have specific designations for electric mountain bike use on certain non-motorized trails, but this is rare and must be explicitly signed.
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM):
  Similar to USFS, electric mountain bikes are typically treated as motorized vehicles and are allowed on designated motorized routes. Specific travel management plans may designate certain non-motorized trails for eMTB use.
• National Park Service (NPS):
  The National Park Service (NPS) regulation governing the use of e-bikes in units of the National Park System permits the park Superintendents to allow e-bikes, where appropriate, on roads and trails where traditional bicycles are also allowed. This means each park may have different rules on where and what class of e-bikes are allowed, so users must check with the parks they plan to visit.
• Utah State Parks:
  Electric mountain bike policies may vary by individual State Park. Still, most Utah State Parks allow Class 1 eMTBs on trails where traditional bicycles are permitted, but it's essential to check the specific park's regulations before riding.
• Utah Wildlife Management Areas (WMA):
  Utah WMAs do not allow class 2 or class 3 e-bikes. It’s important to note that these properties have been purchased for the primary benefit of wildlife and wildlife habitat. It’s essential to know the rules and regulations for public access before visiting a WMA, as they vary by each location and many have seasonal closures or other restrictions.
• Local Jurisdictions (Cities/Counties):
  Rules can vary significantly at the local level. Always check local ordinances for trails within city or county limits.
  • Park City/Summit County
    • https://www.pctrails.org/ is a helpful interactive map where you can toggle on trails that allow e-bikes. 
  • Salt Lake City Foothills Class 1 ebikes are generally allowed on non-USFS trails. 
  • Heber Valley - Class 1 ebikes are generally allowed on mountain bikes trails in the Heber Valley. Please be aware that this changes once you get up to Park City or on USFS non-motorized trails. 
  • Moab - Most mountain bike trails in this area are on federal land and all classes of e-bikes are considered motorized vehicles and not allowed on non-motorized trails on BLM and USFS. BLM is currently looking at allowing class-1 ebikes on some of the area trails. 
  • Cedar City - BLM and USFS land in this area limit e-bike to motorized trails. BLM is currently looking at expanding access to class-1 ebikes on some non-motorized trails. Be sure to check with local land managers before you head out.
  • St. George - BLM and USFS land in this area limit e-bike to motorized trails or those specifically designated for e-bikes. Be sure to check with local land managers before you head out.
  • Northern Utah Area

Responsible Electric Mountain Bike Riding

No matter where you ride, please adhere to responsible trail etiquette and safety guidelines:

• Know Before You Go: Always confirm trail legality for your electric mountain bike class with the managing agency.
• Yield to Others: Yield to hikers, equestrians and non-electric bikes. Announce your presence when approaching others, slow down and say hello. You’ve got the E-assistance so you should yield to other users. 
• Control Your Speed: Ride within your limits and maintain a safe speed, especially on shared-use, multi-directional trails.
• Stay on Designated Trails: Do not create new trails or ride off-trail.
• Protect the Environment: Pack out what you pack in. Avoid riding in muddy conditions. Don’t ride off trail to pass people. 

Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.

Important Resources & Links

For more detailed information and specific trail regulations, please visit the following resources:

• Utah State Parks
• U.S. Forest Service 
• Bureau of Land Management 
• Utah State Legislature - Electric Bicycle Laws (UCA 41-6a-102) 
• Responsible Recreation Practices
• Trail mapping applications (trailforks, AllTrails, Gaia, onXMaps, etc) - We recognize that many users utilize various trail mapping applications for their trip planning and some of them have layers that show where e-bikes are allowed. These can be very helpful, but please know they are not always accurate and it’s best to check with land managers. 

Disclaimer: This information is intended as a general guide and is subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the specific land management agency before riding.