E-bikes permitted on certain state park trails

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has implemented guidelines for the usage of electric bicycles in state parks and forests.

"(The DCNR) will now move forward allowing e-bikes on trails already open to traditional bicycle usage on the lands managed by the department, as long as users follow some guidelines," said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. ​

The Pennsylvania Vehicle Code defines an e-bike as weighing no more than 100 pounds, cannot exceed 20 miles per hour when using the motor, has motors that do not exceed 750 watts; and has fully functional, operable pedals.

The updated policy allows e-bikes to be used on DCNR-managed trails where traditional bikes are allowed, such as the Oil Creek State Park bike trail. E-bikes are prohibited on state forest roads and trails that are not open to biking, such as the Gerard Hiking Trails​. Additional rules regarding e-bikes include:

• Users must propel their e-bikes by pedaling on non-motorized trails. 
• Use of the throttle-only functionality is not permitted on non-motorized trails managed by DCNR.
• Riders under the age of 16 are not permitted to ride e-bikes on state or local highways.

“We ask all riders -- traditional and e-bikes -- to practice trail etiquette and ride safely, including adhering to safe speeds,” Dunn said.

"E-bikes make Pennsylvania state parks and forests accessible to more people, such as older individuals and those with physical limitations or medical conditions," the DCNR said in a press release. "The policy expands such opportunities for healthful outdoor recreation activity while at the same time managing impacts on other visitors and on natural places."

​An E-bike Policy Frequently Asked Questions document (PDF) on the DCNR website has more information about the e-bike policy.