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Easier Human-Powered Travel in Wilderness Areas

This act aims to make wilderness areas more accessible for people using non-motorized travel methods like bicycles or scooters. Local officials will decide where and how these activities are permitted, potentially opening new trails for outdoor recreation. Citizens will gain more opportunities for active leisure in national parks and other protected areas.
Key points
Local federal officials (e.g., from National Park Service, Forest Service) will determine permissible non-motorized travel (e.g., bikes, scooters) on designated routes in wilderness areas.
If local officials fail to make a determination within two years, all forms of non-motorized travel will automatically be allowed on existing routes.
Local authorities can implement restrictions (e.g., user limits, speed limits, travel direction) to protect the environment and prevent conflicts among user groups.
The act does not require altering wilderness character or opening new routes, nor does it apply to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, which remains a footpath.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_1686
Sponsor: Sen. Lee, Mike [R-UT]
Process start date: 2021-05-18
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Human-Powered Travel in Wilderness Areas Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_1686.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-05-18.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Local federal officials (e.g., from National Park Service, Forest Service) will determine permissible non-motorized travel (e.g., bikes, scooters) on designated routes in wilderness areas.
  • If local officials fail to make a determination within two years, all forms of non-motorized travel will automatically be allowed on existing routes.
  • Local authorities can implement restrictions (e.g., user limits, speed limits, travel direction) to protect the environment and prevent conflicts among user groups.
  • The act does not require altering wilderness character or opening new routes, nor does it apply to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, which remains a footpath.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Lee, Mike [R-UT].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-02.

CATEGORIES

Environment