Mountain Biking & E-biking

 

Two cyclists stop to enjoy the view of Valle Grande from a mountainside clearing.

NPS

Looking for an extraordinary ride among nature's beauty where wildlife abounds? Ride through shaded forests, around high mountain tops, or noodle the edge of vast green meadows. Choose a heart-pumping climb or a relaxing family ride where gravity does most of the work. Whether new to bike-riding or an experienced cyclist, it's all here at Valles Caldera.

 

Mountain biking on VC0201.

NPS/L. Ray

Guidelines For All Cyclists

• A backcountry vehicle permit is required if you wish to drive your personal vehicle into the backcountry before beginning your biking adventure. Permits are limited and available seasonally as conditions allow. No permit is needed to bike into the backcountry from the Entrance Station.
• Check out the Rules and Regulations web page before coming to the preserve.
• Be careful when riding on preserve roads; roads are winding and narrow while shoulders are either narrow or nonexistent. Vehicle traffic can be heavy at times. There are no bicycle separate bike paths along roadways.
• All cyclists must ride single-file. Commonly accepted road courtesy in the mountains calls for slower traffic to pull over and stop to allow congestion behind to pass where appropriate shoulder space is available.
• Bicycles and e-bikes are allowed on all roads open to public motor vehicles. Refer to the E-Bike Access Routes map to see which additional roads and trails are open to bicycles and which additional roads are open to e-bikes.
• All cyclists are subject to the same traffic rules as automobiles.
• Stay on designated open trails and roads. Backcountry trails and roads are maintained to provide identifiable routes that concentrate and support traffic. Concentrating travel on established paths reduces soil erosion and the likelihood that multiple routes will develop causing future environmental impact.

 

Safety

• We strongly recommend that safety gear, including helmet and high visibility clothing, be worn by all bicyclists. 
• Carry tools and spare parts, and inspect brakes for worn cables and pads. 
• Know how to navigate across the landscape. Plan your route according to time, terrain, and abilities. 
• Always let someone know your outdoor plans including your anticipated time of return. 
• Motorists frequently do not see bicyclists or fail to give them sufficient space on the road. Drivers sometimes pass on hill crests, blind curves, or in oncoming traffic. 
• Remember, safety is your responsibility.

 

Additional E-bike Information

• E-bike is defined as a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 hp).
• Use of the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling for extended distances is prohibited.

 

Map highlighting the routes available for e-biking.

NPS