E-Bikes Allowed in Wilderness Park

Published on April 28, 2025

CHWP Bike Image.jpg

New Laws On E-Bike Use and Trail Etiquette at the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park

On April 22, 2025, the City Council finalized an ordinance amending Title 11 of the Claremont Municipal Code regulating the use of electric bicycles, or “E-bikes” in the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park (CHWP) and also codified standards for trail etiquette. The new laws will take effect on May 22, 2025 and are designed to promote safety and courtesy amongst visitors. 

What is an “E-bike”?

An E-bike is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. E-bikes are further separated into specific classes based on their features.

Many other devices are often confused for E-bikes. For example, the popular “Surron” brand does not meet the definition of electric bicycle and would instead be considered an electric motorcycle. Devices that do not meet the specific standards outlined above require a license plate or may be illegal to operate. They are strictly prohibited in the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park.

What can I ride in the CHWP?

Permitted devices include
  • Manual pedal bikes
  • Class 1 E-bikes
  • Class 2 E-bikes

Prohibited devices include:

  • Class 3 E-bikes
  • Surron-type cycles
  • Any other motorized conveyance device, including but not limited to skateboards, scooters, ATVs, minibikes, dirt bikes, etc.

Claremont Hills Wilderness Park

Trail Etiquette Standards

The Claremont Hills Wilderness Park welcomes over 450,000 visitors each year. As new ways to enjoy the trail emerge, it’s important to revisit trail etiquette to ensure both safe recreation and the preservation of the park’s natural state of beauty. Visitors must abide by the following laws:

  • Yield to others
    • Bicycle and e-bike operators must yield to pedestrians and equestrians.
    • Pedestrians must yield to equestrians.
    • All users must yield right-of-way to emergency and maintenance vehicles.
  • Walk, run, or bike on the right side of the trail.
  • Walk, run, or bike no more than 2 persons abreast.
  • When passing others, pass on the left
  • Bicycle and e-bike operators must use a bell and/or verbal announcement when passing others.
  • Bicycle and e-bike operators must watch speed both going downhill and near curves.
  • Keep dogs on a 6 ft. leash and close to you when hiking.
  • No user shall wear a headset covering, earplugs in, or earphones covering, resting on, or inserted in, both ears.

By sharing the trail, following these simple rules, and being respectful of others, the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park will remain enjoyable for all. Visitors in violation of these rules may face citation or removal from the CHWP.

 

 

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