Draft E-Bike Policy for Pennsylvania State Park and Forests

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources released a draft e-bike policy for the use of e-bikes on state park and forest lands.

An e-bike is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists the rider when they are pedaling.

DCNR is proposing to allow e-bikes on trails already open to traditional bicycle usage as long as users follow some guidelines consistent with the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code that e-bikes:

• Weigh no more than 100 pounds
• Do not exceed 20 miles-per-hour using the motor
• Have motors that do not exceed 750 watts
• Have fully functional, operable pedals

The policy, when adopted, will allow e-bikes to be used on DCNR-managed trails where traditional bikes are allowed.

State forest roads and trails that are not open to biking which would also prohibit e-bikes include:

• Natural areas
• Designated hiking trails (blazed with yellow or orange
• Trails or roads specifically marked closed to biking

E-bikes will be allowed on DCNR-managed motorized trails and public use roads unless they are marked as prohibited to bikes.

Other lands open to the public in Pennsylvania (such as federal lands, local parks, gamelands, and preserves) have different requirements related to e-bikes. E-bike users should check the guidelines for their destination before they go.

Draft E-Bike Policy Documents
Draft E-Bike Policy for State Parks and Forests (PDF)

Draft E-Bike Policy for State Parks and Forests Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)

Public Comments on Draft E-Bike Policy
Written comments about the draft e-bike policy are welcome, and can be submited to DCNR’s Policy Office.

The deadline to submit comments is Wednesday, August 31.