Moab, Utah, a renowned destination for mountain biking and outdoor recreation, is finally considering the inclusion of e-bikes on its world-famous non-motorized mountain bike trails. Given Moab’s progressive approach to biking access and various forms of outdoor activities, this move has been anticipated for quite some time.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Moab Field Office is currently evaluating the possibility of allowing Class 1 e-bikes on its extensive network of non-motorized mountain bike trails. The trails encompass over 197 miles across 12 trail systems in the vicinity of Moab. Many mountain bikers consider these trails to be among the best in the world.

While Moab boasts more than 197 miles of trails, numerous others are already open to e-bikes. Trails such as Slickrock and Sovereign have always permitted motorized use and are popular among e-bikers. Additionally, Dead Horse Point State Park has allowed e-bikes on its non-motorized singletrack for several years. E-bikers also utilize a variety of wide jeep trails, including Bar M, Amasa Back, Porcupine Rim Road, Poison Spider Mesa, and others. The ongoing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process pertains primarily to the remaining non-motorized mountain bike trails in the area.

Trails Under Consideration for E-Bike Access

The BLM is in the process of preparing an environmental assessment to determine which existing designated non-motorized mountain bike trails will allow Class 1 e-bikes. Public comments on the proposal are being accepted until November 1, 2024. The trails currently under assessment include:

• Athena Trail
• Horsethief Trail System
• Navajo Rocks Mountain Bike Trail System
• Magnificent 7, 7-Up, Getaway, and other trails in the Gemini Bridges area
• Gold Bar Rim Trail
• Portal Trail
• Klondike Bluffs Mountain Bike Trail System
• Baby Steps Trail
• Klonzo Trail System
• Moab Brands Mountain Bike Trail System
• Amasa Back Mountain Bike Trail System
• Jackson Trail
• Hunter Canyon Rim
• Pipe Dream Trail
• Raptor Route Trails: Hawks Glide, Falcon Flow, Kestrel Run
• Kokopelli Trail – 3 miles of non-motorized singletrack trail

However, notable exceptions that will not be considered for e-bike use include the Porcupine Rim Singletrack and the Hidden Valley Trail, which traverse Wilderness Study Areas. Trails like Fisher Mesa, Lower Porcupine Rim Singletrack, and portions of the Raptor Route will not be included due to their location within U.S. Forest Service jurisdiction. It is important to note that the nearby U.S. Forest Service district continues to prohibit e-bikes on its trails. This means that the Whole Enchilada—widely regarded as one of the best mountain bike trails in the world—will remain off-limits to e-bikes.

Growing Demand for E-Bike Access in Moab

Given its reputation for progressive mountain bike access, the potential inclusion of e-bikes on trails has been a long-awaited step for Moab. This NEPA process follows similar initiatives undertaken across BLM and U.S. Forest Service districts nationwide. Local residents have observed that the BLM office has approached this proposal cautiously.

There are concerns regarding potential lawsuits. It is vital to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to involve the public. Environmentalists are apprehensive about opening access to motorized users. While motorized users themselves have faced route closures, leading to concerns around new trail developments.

Despite challenges from both groups, the BLM feels pressure to accommodate e-bikes on the trails. The desire to expand e-bike access is evident.

The demand for e-bike opportunities in Moab is apparent. With feedback from various stakeholders indicating a desire for more e-bike riding options. If the demand isn’t met, there could be a decline in attendance at cycling events or a need to relocate them from their long-standing venues.

To demonstrate the existing e-bike access in Moab, guided e-bike rides on the trails already open to e-bikers are being organized.

If the NEPA process encounters few obstacles, e-bikers may soon legally access popular trails such as Moab Brands singletrack and the iconic Captain Ahab tech trail, among other beloved routes in Moab.

advertisement