Whether you're riding through a state park, along waterfronts, or down a scenic trail, an e-bike can add a little extra fun and freedom to your next outdoor adventure.
With more and more visitors using e-bikes, the Michigan DNR approved class 1 and class 2 e-bikes on select DNR-managed trails in 2024. This expansion followed months of collaborative research and discussion with trail users and organizations, creating even more opportunities for visitors to get outside and explore.
To make sure all trail users have a fun and safe time, be sure to follow these three simple steps while using an e-bike.
- Step 1: Know your e-bike's class
- Step 2: Find a DNR-managed trail
- Step 3: Be safe (and leave no trace) while you have fun
Step 1: Know your e-bike's class
Knowing what class your e-bike falls into is your first step in having fun on a DNR-managed trail. Finding your bike's class should be simple because manufacturers place a permanent label on the e-bike that identifies its class type.
- Class 1: These e-bikes are pedal-assisted and can travel up to 20 miles per hour. These bikes are welcomed on any DNR-managed trail where traditional bicycles are allowed with the exception of North Country Trail, High Country, Shingle Mill and Pickerel Lake pathways within the Pigeon River Country.
- Class 2: Throttle- and pedal-assisted, these e-bikes can travel up to 20 miles per hour. These e-bikes are for mobility use only and users must have a free DNR-issued permit to use these bikes on DNR-managed trails.
- Class 3: Because these e-bikes can travel up to 28 miles per hour, they are not allowed on any state-managed trail to help protect guests and wildlife.
Another clue to look for is if your e-bike has pedals. If it does not have fully operable pedals, your bike is considered an e-moto under Michigan law. Examples of e-motos include electric mopeds, motorcycles and dirt bikes. Because these bikes can exceed 28 miles per hour, they pose serious safety risks to trail users, and should only be used on ORV trails. Luckily, Michigan has over 4,000 miles of state-designated ORV trails, so you will have plenty of options.
Step 2: Find a DNR-managed trail
Michigan is home to more than 4,020 miles of state-designated hiking trails and 2,085 miles of state-designated biking trails, making it easy to find a great trail experience near you.
While you're searching for your next trail adventure, remember that e-bikes are not allowed on trails in state game and wildlife areas to help protect wildlife and guests.
Step 3: Be safe (and leave no trace) while you have fun
Many DNR-managed trails are multi-use, meaning that they are enjoyed by hikers, bikers and horseback riders. Knowing when to yield and how to interact with other users helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. While you're exploring a trail on your e-bike, be sure to:
- Stay on marked trails, and respect trail conditions and trail closures.
- Leave no trace to protect our trails and wildlife.
- Dismount and go down the center of the trail if you encounter wet trail conditions. This is safer for riders and stops the trail from widening.
- Alert other trail users of your intentions before passing.
- Yield to all other trail users while riding a bike.
- Maintain a safe speed, especially near other trail users.
- Communicate when encountering a horseback rider on the trail. Because cyclists move quickly and quietly, it can scare horses.
For more information on e-bike use on DNR-managed properties, visit our website.
Does your e-bike go 28 miles per hour or lack operable pedals? Check out our ORV trails.