Which E-Bikes Are Allowed on Michigan DNR Trails?

For those of us with scarred shins from sharper-than-necessary bike pedals, it's hard to believe Michigan has officially reached the point in outdoor recreation where your bicycle may need a software update.

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E-bikes are everywhere, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources says some are welcome on DNR-managed trails, while others need to take their little electric motors elsewhere.

Class 1 E-Bikes Get the Green Light

A man and woman on a boardwalk with e-bikes.

Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assisted and top out at 20 mph. The DNR says they are allowed on DNR-managed trails where regular bikes are allowed, including many state parks, recreation areas, and state forest pathways.

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There are exceptions: the North Country Trail, High Country, Shingle Mill, and Pickerel Lake pathways within the Pigeon River Country State Forest are off-limits.

Class 2 E-Bikes Need a Permit

A look at the throttle control of an e-bike.

Class 2 e-bikes use a throttle and pedal assist and top out at 20 mph. On DNR-managed trails, they are allowed only for mobility use, and riders need a free DNR-issued permit.

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To get a permit, you must fill out an application and submit it to the DNR.

Class 3 E-Bikes Are Not Allowed on State Trails

Class 3 e-bikes can hit 28 mph, and the DNR says they are not allowed on any state-managed trail. E-bikes are also not allowed on trails in state game and wildlife areas.

How to Ride Safely on Shared Michigan Trails

A pair of e-bikes sit on the shore of a lake.

On shared trails, the DNR advises all e-bike riders to slow down, yield to hikers and horses, and announce themselves before passing.