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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    E-Bikes in Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests

    The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has an internal policy for the use of electric bicycles (PDF) on state park and forest lands.

     

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

    Download E-Bike Fact Sheet
    Frequently Asked Questions

    Using E-Bikes

    E-bikes are allowed on trails already open to traditional bicycle usage as long as users follow 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

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

    E-bike users must propel their e-bikes by pedaling on non-motorized trails; the use of the throttle-only functionality is not permitted on non-motorized trails managed by DCNR.

    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

    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.

    Riders should be aware of the battery storage capacity of their e-bike and available charging options. Users should not assume that trails open to e-bikes include e-bike charging stations.

    E-Bike Safety and Etiquette Tips

    Safety and courtesy should always be a priority when biking:

    • Know the type and specifications of the device you’re riding and where you can ride it.
    • Maintain safe speeds at all times, consider trail and weather conditions, and always be cognizant of other users along the trail.
    • Stay to the right, pass on the left.
    • Let other trail users know you are coming -- give a friendly greeting.
    • Limit distractions, don’t impair your hearing (i.e., by wearing headphones or ear buds).
    • Obey all trail and road signs.
    • Slow down in congested areas.
    • If you’re on wheels, yield to pedestrians.
    • Use special care when passing horses.
    • Helmets are required by law for persons under the age of 12 and are recommended for bicyclists of all ages.
    • Maintain single file when passing or being passed.
    • Stay on the trail. Do not go off the trail (even to pass), create new trails, or cut switchbacks.
    • Don’t block the trail. When taking a break, move to the side of the trail to allow others to pass safely.
    • Expect the unexpected. Humans and animals can be unpredictable.