News Release

Proposed Electric Bike Use in Haleakalā National Park

Date: November 6, 2019
Contact: Jin Prugsawan, 808-572-4450

Kula, Maui — Haleakalā National Park is proposing to allow the use of Type 1,2 and 3 electric bicycles (e-bikes) on all roads where traditional bicycles are currently permitted. This change would be reflected in the Superintendent’s Compendium, a listing of public regulations for both the Summit and Kipahulu Districts of the park.

The term "e-bike" refers to a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 horse power.). E-bikes will be prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling will be prohibited.

The new policy reflects a nationwide National Park Service (NPS) directive issued on August 30, 2019 by the NPS Deputy Director exercising the authority of the Director. A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 Code of Federal Regulations part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles. Haleakalā National Park will retain the right to limit, restrict, or impose conditions of bicycle use and e-bike use in order to ensure visitor safety and resource protection.

The public will have 30 days to review and comment, starting November 6, 2019. All comments must be received by close of business on December 6, 2019.

Comments may be submitted by email to [e-mail] with the subject line “E-Bike Policy.”

Comments will not be accepted by FAX or in any manner other than the methods specified above.
Bulk comments in any format (hard copy or electronic) submitted on behalf of others will not be accepted. Before including a personal address, phone number, email address, or other personal identifying information in written comments, anyone providing written comment should be aware their entire comment - including their personal identifying information - may be made publicly available at any time. While anyone wishing to comment may ask the National Park Service in their comment to withhold their personal identifying information from public review, the National Park Service cannot guarantee it will be able to do so.

The current Superintendent’s Compendium for Haleakalā National Park can be found at: www.nps.gov/hale/learn/management/upload/2019-Compendium-final_508_compliant.pdf.

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