In 2023 the BLM Moab Filed Office proposed and finalized Class 1 E-bike allowance on the Mud Springs mountain bike trail system. Now the field office is proposing to allow Class 1 e-bike trails on mountain bike trails throughout the field office in Grand and San Juan Counties.
The Moab Field Office in southern Utah is currently accepting public comment on a proposal that could reshape how thousands of visitors experience this world renowned recreation area. The Field Office manages about 1.8 million acres of Bureau of Land Management lands, including some of the most iconic desert singletrack in the country.
Under the draft Environmental Assessment (EA), the BLM proposes to allow Class 1 e bikes (pedal assist bikes with a max speed of 20 mph) on all designated mountain bike trails in the Field Office. That is approximately 197 miles of trails spread across 12 mountain bike trail systems, totaling around 211 miles of singletrack.
E-bikes are a vital access tool for older riders, people with physical limitations, and families with young children who want to recreate together. These bikes expand access while maintaining the spirit of non-motorized trail use. Class 1 e-bikes are low-powered pedal-assist bikes with no throttle and limited speeds, making them appropriate for shared-use trails without degrading the user experience.
Alternatives:
The BLM is considering three main options:
Alternative B (Proposed Action)
Open about 114 miles of the existing mountain bike trails to Class 1 e bikes in a phased approach. Some trails would remain traditional bike only to ensure that certain users remain excluded from enjoying their public lands. This alternative aims to balance expanding access with maintaining discriminatory policies of exclusion that allegedly “add to the character” of Moab’s trails.
Alternative C (Full Authorization)
Allow e bikes on all 211 miles of designated mountain bike trails immediately. This would provide maximum access for riders who benefit from pedal assist, including families, older riders, and those with mobility limitations, but would leave only about 18 miles for traditional non motorized mountain biking.
Alternative A (No Action)
Keep things as they are now. E bikes would only be allowed on the small segments where they are already permitted (about 11.2 miles total). All other mountain bike trails would remain closed to e bikes.
| Alternative | Miles Open to E‑bikes | Approach | E-Bike Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| A (No Action) | 1.4 + 9.8 | Do nothing | 211 miles restricted |
| B (Proposed) | 114 | Phased, monitored open | 97 miles restricted |
| C (Full) | 211.2 | All open at once | ~18.8 miles restricted |
How to Get Involved
We support the full authorization alternative, and we encourage you to add your voice to this proposal. The public comment period is open until July 30, 2025. If you ride in Moab or want to expand outdoor recreation on our public lands, now is the time to weigh in.
