Bicycling

A bicyclist stops for a view at Newspaper Rock

NPS

Bicycle—including ebikes—use is permitted on paved park roads and parking areas open to the public as well as some areas listed below. Be careful along park roads—everyone is looking at the view!

36 CFR §4.30 – BICYCLES

(a) Bicycle/e-bike use is permitted on paved park roads and parking areas open to the public.

The following routes are closed to bicycle/e-bike use: Paved trails and all park lands not covered by pavement, with the exception of:

the unpaved portion of Old Route 66 from the main park road to the east boundary fence

the eastern portion of Old Highway 180 in the Rainbow Forest area from its intersection with the main park road to the east boundary

the portion of the Long logs trail from its intersection with the main park road, continuing to the trailhead loop area approximately ½ mile up the trail.

the trail beginning at the Rainbow Forest Picnic Area, and continuing to the base of the mesa, ending at a loop in the road (approximately 1 mile in length).

(b) The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.).

E-bikes are allowed in Petrified Forest National Park where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.

A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).

Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Petrified Forest National Park is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.

Determination: To prevent injury or damage to park resources and visitors.

 
Bicycle Route Maps

Last updated: November 24, 2023

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Petrified Forest National Park
P.O. Box 2217
Attn.:

Petrified Forest, AZ 86028-2217

Phone:

928 524-6228

Contact Us