ATV and e-Bike Laws Could be Changing for National Forest Lands Soon

The US Forest Service has announced that they are moving forward with revising travel management rules across the United States on National Forest lands. This is something that is metaphorically coming from President Trump’s desk - many news outlets are reporting it as such - when in reality this is something that the U.S. Forest Service has been working on being more forward-thinking and progressive in a world where motorized vehicles are no longer just gas-guzzling four-wheelers.

The U.S. Forest Service announced on August 21st their intent to publish a “Notice of Intent” to prepare an environmental impact statement for amending the existing Travel Management Rule (36 CFR 212). This proposed revision will make the regulatory requirements much simpler for outdoor enthusiasts to understand and read. Additionally, the hope is that it will expedite local decision-making and increase access for motorized vehicles, e-bikes, and other mobility devices.

A Word from the U.S. Forest Service on Travel Management Rule Changes

Washington, D.C. - August 21st, 2026 - ”Public lands are for public use, yet for too long, Forest Service regulations have stood in the way of public recreation access,” said Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Stephen A. Vaden. “With this step, USDA begins the process of ensuring the public can access their forests and USDA can better manage the lands with which the public has entrusted it.”

“The existing travel management scheme creates unnecessary barriers for Americans to enjoy the national forests and grasslands that they own,” said USDA Natural Resources and Environment Under Secretary Mike Boren. “By simplifying regulations and aligning them with the mission of the United States Forest Service, we are providing the necessary tools for local leaders to ensure that roads, trails, airfields, trailheads and other access routes are open and appropriate for public use.”