Like most other outdoor activities, cycling has surged in popularity since Covid and the numbers are growing. data shows Approximately 35 million Americans ride a bicycle regularly. In some areas, such as the Twin Cities, more than 40% of the population travels frequently.
However, supporting bicycling on public lands can be difficult. Designated wilderness areas do not allow mechanical transportation of any kind, and bicycling may conflict with other trail uses such as horseback riding.
In an effort to increase opportunities to use bicycles on public lands, the Department of the Interior will develop specially designated long-distance biking trails from existing or new trails. And the public becomes part of this process.
Plan
This effort is part of a broader effort to implement Public lands, expansion of outdoor recreation experiences (Explore) Act.
This legislation, passed by Congress in 2024, aims to provide increased opportunities for outdoor activities. A specific section of the law, the Biking on Long-Distance Trails Act, orders the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture to identify at least 10 existing new trails and 10 potential new long-distance biking trails.
Agencies invite the public to submit trails for consideration Online From now till August 3. To be selected, a trail must meet several criteria, including:
- It is at least 80 miles long.
- It is publicly accessible, and much of the route lies on federally managed public lands.
- It uses already existing or available trails.
- The route is mainly dirt (some short road sections are allowed).
- It is open to bicycle use, and does not conflict with other trail uses (hiking, horseback riding, etc.).
- The trails have existing partners or volunteer organizations to assist with maintenance and development.
nomination form Trails asks submitters several other questions, including whether there are any potential accessibility issues. It also asks what kind of trail experience it will provide. Options are e-biking, mountain biking, mixed use, bikepacking, snow biking and gravel riding.
Once DOI receives nominations, it will select the trails so that they are distributed geographically evenly throughout the country. DOI said it would make sure to consult with local Native American tribes before establishing any routes.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum praised the effort.
“Our public lands belong to the American people, and the Trump Administration is fully committed to expanding access, supporting rural economies, and promoting robust multiple-use recreation on federal lands,” he said in a statement. Press release. “By cutting red tape, harnessing the power of local partnerships, and utilizing existing infrastructure, this initiative will establish major long-distance biking corridors that will boost local tourism and ensure we remain responsible stewards of our country’s abundant natural resources.”
