Off-Road E-bikes on Public Lands

Posted on July 14, 2021

E-bikes on public lands: where they’re allowed and how to promote their successful integration. Whether you want to ditch the car, haul kids and groceries, or simply require a little help to get on the bike, pedal-assist e-bikes are becoming an integral part of daily life. You can now ride them in many of Marin’s public lands and take them to popular cycling destinations.

In 2020, Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) and Point Reyes National Seashore updated their park compendiums to include pedal-assist e-bikes on most trails and dirt roads where traditional bicycles are allowed. Combined, these two parks make up the bulk of Marin’s public lands, with 150,000 acres of open space to explore.

As with any new technology, not everyone is excited about the arrival of e-bikes on multi-use trails and fire roads. This includes cyclists and non-cyclists, and some are overstating their potential harm. If you ride an e-bike or welcome their presence in our parks, please ride responsibly and respect the rules. Now more than ever we need you to lead by example!

BE AN E-BIKE AMBASSADOR

Mind Your Speed: Your uphill speed may surprise others. Follow speed limits (15 mph max), passing protocols (5 mph when passing), and make your presence known with a “Howdy,” “Hi!” or a ring of the bell before passing other trail users. Slow way down when passing all users (hikers, bikers, runners and equestrians) whether on trails or fire roads.

Know Your Ability: E-bikes are like regular bikes: don’t assume the battery will give you new skills or abilities. Watch your settings, low or economy mode is best for medium to long rides and will help you avoid a very long slog home or a rescue.

Check Ahead: Be aware of any park or land management rules or conditions related to e- bikes. Even in Marin parks where e-bikes are welcome, generally only Class 1 e-bikes are allowed.

WHERE YOU CAN RIDE Your E-bike on Public Lands

NATIONAL PARKS: Golden Gate National Recreation Area

All classes of e-bikes are allowed wherever bicycles are allowed, as long as the rider: 1. is pedaling (use of throttles is prohibited), and 2. obeys speed limits (15 mph in most places).

NATIONAL PARKS: Pt. Reyes National Seashore

Class 1 e-bikes are allowed wherever bicycles are allowed, unless otherwise posted.

STATE PARKS (China Camp, Angel Island)

Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed wherever bicycles are allowed, unless otherwise posted. E-bikes are not allowed in Mt. Tamalpais State Park and Samuel P. Taylor State Park at this time.

MARIN COUNTY PARKS & OPEN SPACE PRESERVES (Several locations)

All classes of e-bikes are prohibited from unpaved trails and fire roads. Check marinbike.org/e-bike for updates.
Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on paved multi-use pathways (MUPs) i.e. Mill Valley/Sausalito MUP, Corte Madera Creek MUP and Cal Park Tunnel MUP.

MARIN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT MT. TAMALPAIS WATERSHED

All classes of e-bikes are prohibited from unpaved trails and fire roads. Check marinbike.org/e-bike for updates.

JOIN THE e-MTB EMAIL LIST

We have a growing list of cyclists who’d like to receive news on e-bike policy changes and other actions that affect e-bikes. Click here if you’d like to be added to the list.

E-BIKE CLASS SYSTEM

Class 1: E-bikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph
Class 2: E-bikes that also have a maximum speed of 20 mph, but are throttle-assisted. *MCBC does not recommend throttle bikes for children under age 16
Class 3: E-bikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph

E-BIKE BENEFITS

No more driving to the trailhead—ride to your ride!
Busy? Bag a big ride in half the time.
Yes, you still get a good workout.
The Great Equalizer: Injured? Recovering? Flatlander in the mountains? A little e-assist might be the difference between a ride and the couch.
A great way to explore new places.
With great power comes great responsibility: you’ll win over skeptics with your supremely courteous nature!
E-bikes are like puppies. Everyone wants to talk to you. Be an E-bike Ambassador!
What else? They are fun!!!

members make it happen

All of our work to make Marin more bike-friendly is powered by your generous giving. Join the team fighting on your behalf for expanded trail access today!