USFS travel-management data · Updated June 2026
Are E-Bikes Allowed in Michigan National Forests?
On National Forest land in Michigan, e-bikes are treated as motor vehicles. USFS travel-management data records Class 1 e-bike access on 3,221 trail segments (2,332 mi), Class 2 on 3,221, and Class 3 on 3,221 across 3 national forests. Everywhere else, an e-bike is allowed only where motor-vehicle use is allowed.
E-bike access by class across Michigan
On National Forest System land, e-bikes are legally motor vehicles. Under U.S. Forest Service policy (36 CFR 212; FSM 7700), an e-bike of any class may be ridden only on routes that are designated for motor-vehicle use or specifically designated for e-bike use — not on every trail where a conventional (non-motorized) mountain bike is allowed.
| E-bike class | Definition | Trail segments with access | Miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 designated | Pedal-assist only, motor cuts out at 20 mph, no throttle. | 3,221 | 2,332 mi |
| Class 2 designated | Throttle-assist up to 20 mph (can propel without pedaling). | 3,221 | 2,332 mi |
| Class 3 designated | Pedal-assist up to 28 mph, no throttle. | 3,221 | 2,332 mi |
By national forest
Open a forest for its trail-by-trail e-bike breakdown and season windows.
| National forest | Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 | Bike trails |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ottawa National Forest | 3,152 | 3,152 | 3,152 | 125 |
| Huron-Manistee National Forest | 63 | 63 | 63 | 35 |
| Hiawatha National Forest | 6 | 6 | 6 | 15 |
Frequently asked questions
- Are e-bikes allowed in Michigan national forests?
- Only where designated. On National Forest System land, e-bikes are legally motor vehicles. Under U.S. Forest Service policy (36 CFR 212; FSM 7700), an e-bike of any class may be ridden only on routes that are designated for motor-vehicle use or specifically designated for e-bike use — not on every trail where a conventional (non-motorized) mountain bike is allowed. In Michigan, USFS data records Class 1 access on 3,221 trail segments and Class 2/3 on far fewer. Check the specific forest before you ride.
- What's the difference between Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes on national forest trails?
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, motor cuts out at 20 mph, no throttle. Class 2: Throttle-assist up to 20 mph (can propel without pedaling). Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph, no throttle. On Forest Service land all three are motor vehicles regardless of class, so access depends on the trail's motorized designation.
- Can I ride a Class 2 (throttle) e-bike on Michigan forest trails?
- Rarely. Class 2 access is recorded on only 3,221 segments statewide — most non-motorized singletrack that allows Class 1 still excludes throttle-assist Class 2 and 3 e-bikes. Verify with the managing ranger district.
See also: Michigan mountain-bike trail overview · E-bike rules by state