Knob Magazine

The National Parks Service has finally proposed a rule change which will streamline the process of approving mountain bike access in National Parks. The rule will be open for comment for 60 days.  Riders in favor of this rule will have this time to weigh in on its advantages.

Essentially the new rule, the result of more than an decade of work on behalf of the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA), allows park superintendents greater control in determining whether to open trails to mountain biking.  Existing environmental compliance requirements will remain in effect.

Sample Letter (from IMBA)

Thank you for accepting my comments concerning RIN 1024-AD72, the
National Park Service rule change for bicycling. I fully support the
proposed rule.

1. The special regulations process that restricts
   bicycling on trails is unduly burdensome and duplicates protections
   that are already addressed by the NPS General Management Plan and the
   National Environmental Policy Act.
2. This proposed rule would
   give park superintendents better tools for opening trails to bicycling.
   It would also treat bicycles like other non-motorized trail uses, such
   as horseback riding.
3. Independent scientific studies,
   including those conducted by the National Park Service, have shown the
   environmental impacts of mountain biking are similar to those of
   hiking, and far less than other uses.
4. The best research
   regarding social interactions on trails reveals those who encounter
   other user groups report very favorably on their interactions. Claims
   otherwise are unsupported by scientific data.
5. Shared-use
   trails are a successful management tool worldwide. NPS staff are
   skilled at selecting appropriate trails for shared-use by hikers,
   bicyclists, and equestrians.
6. This rule will aid visitor
   enjoyment for both children and adults. Bicycling broadens the
   recreational offerings and gets Americans out of their cars and into
   the natural world. It connects people of all ages with the natural
   environment and is a fun, low-impact activity.
7. Improving opportunities for bicycling and promoting trails tourism could benefit economic conditions for nearby communities.
8. Mountain bikers are prolific volunteers–conducting nearly one million
   hours of trailwork on public lands annually–and could help build
   environmentally sound, sustainable trails.

Thank you for considering my comment. Bicycling is a wonderful way to
explore our national parks and I hope the proposed rule change will be
implemented.