I’ve been a passionate proponent of Class 1 (pedal assist) e-bikes for many years. I have seen how they have changed lives for the better by getting more people on two wheels and enjoying Park City’s amazing trail system.
There will always be naysayers (as there were with fat skis, snowboards and laptops when they first arrived), but I believe the net benefit of more people enjoying the freedom and fun of being on two wheels far outweigh the limited downsides.
Wasatch County just voted to allow pedal-assist e-bikes on backcountry trails. It’s time for Park City to follow suit. I hope the Park City Council will consider mirroring this change in the near future.
More reasons to allow Class 1 e-bikes on Park City single-track:
Equity and Access
- Expands access for older riders, people with disabilities, and those recovering from injuries who may not otherwise be able to enjoy trails.
- Makes trail use more inclusive, especially for families with mixed ability levels.
Environmental, Traffic Benefits
- Reduces car trips to trailheads by encouraging more people to ride from home ( I can ride the WOW trail from home instead of taking my car to the trailhead)
- Low noise and zero emissions, unlike motorized dirt bikes or ATVs. (though motorized dirt bikes, in the right location, are still THE BEST!)
- Helps decrease congestion and parking strain at popular trailheads.
Minimal Trail Impact
- Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assisted only, with a max speed of 20 mph, making them very similar to analog mountain bikes (terrain dictates speed, not engine size).
- Multiple studies show e-bikes have no greater trail impact than traditional bikes in terms of erosion and tread wear.
Economic Support
- Boosts local economy by encouraging bike tourism, gear purchases, and extended stays. (Park City needs help in the summer.)
- Supports local bike shops and guiding services by creating more demand for rentals, repairs, and tours.
Enforcement Simplicity
- Clear classification system (Class 1 only) makes rules easier to enforce than banning all e-bikes.
- Allows land managers to differentiate between low-impact and high-speed/motorized vehicles.
Already Popular
- E-bike use is already happening on trails, often without issues—policy change would legitimize responsible users.
- Aligns with trends in other recreation towns (e.g., Bentonville, Crested Butte, Jackson) that have successfully allowed them.
Wasatch County Regs:
- Class II or III electric assisted bicycles may not be operated on soft-surface trails.
- E-bikes should always be operated at a safe rate of speed for the existing conditions. (Improved multi-use trails: 20 mph, Soft-surface trails and sidewalks: 15 mph)
- E-bike passengers should not exceed the manufacturer’s intended capacity and all passengers should ride in a manner consistent with the manufacturer’s intended passenger placement.
- E-bikes should be ridden only on trails and sidewalks. Stay off the grass in public parks, public property, and other areas not designated for e-bike use.
- Riders under 18 are required to wear a helmet.
Violations of the Wasatch County e-bike ordinance are punishable as an infraction.
Nathan Rafferty
Park City