E-Bike Public Land Rules: Where You Can Ride Legally

As electric bikes continue to gain popularity, more riders are hitting the trails on public lands—but not all paths are e-bike friendly. Whether you're riding a high-powered beast like the Dirt Goat 96V or cruising on a city-ready Power Goat V3, it’s important to know where your e-bike is legally allowed.

In this guide, we break down the current rules and regulations around riding e-bikes on national forest land, BLM land, state parks, and other public areas—so you can enjoy the ride without getting hit with a fine or turned away at the gate.

1. U.S. National Forests

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) classifies e-bikes as motorized vehicles, which means:

You can ride e-bikes only on trails and roads open to motor vehicles unless otherwise posted.
Most non-motorized hiking or mountain biking trails do not allow e-bikes.

How to Check:
Use the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for your forest district or call the local ranger station.

2. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land

Good news for off-road riders: in 2020, the BLM officially allowed Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes on non-motorized trails if authorized by the local land manager.

Some areas are fully open to e-bikes. Others are still restricted.
Most BLM open OHV areas welcome high-power e-bikes like the Billy Goat V3 and Dirt Goat.

How to Check:
Search the BLM’s interactive recreation map and look for "e-bike" under trail use permissions.

3. National Parks

The National Park Service (NPS) allows Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes on any trail where traditional bicycles are allowed.

No throttle-only use in most areas—pedal-assist only is often the rule.
Off-trail or backcountry use is usually prohibited unless otherwise noted.

Look for posted signage or visit the park’s official site before riding.

4. State Parks & Local Trails

Rules vary state by state and even park by park.

Some state parks allow e-bikes on all multi-use trails.
Others restrict throttle e-bikes or those above Class 2.

Tip: When in doubt, assume only Class 1 (pedal-assist only, up to 20MPH) is allowed on mixed-use trails.

Before You Ride: Stay Compliant

To protect access for all riders and avoid citations:

Check local trail maps or park websites before you go
Respect posted signs and rules
Ride responsibly and yield to hikers and traditional cyclists

And always gear up—our accessories collection includes the must-haves for trail safety and storage.

Want a Trail-Ready E-Bike?

Whether you're navigating rugged backcountry or sticking to approved OHV routes, GOAT Power Bikes offers high-torque, high-range rides made for off-road adventure: