Long-Distance Biking Trails Could Be Coming To National Forest Lands

By NPT Staff - December 1st, 2021

Long-distance biking trails, running at least 80 miles, could soon be coming to national forest lands if Congress approves legislation sponsored by a bipartisan group in the Senate.

BOLT, or the Biking On Long-Distance Trails measure, calls for at least ten trails that use a mix of trails and roads to be established in the forests.

The legislation was sponsored by Sens. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), and co-sponsored by Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.).

“In New Mexico and across America, there are millions of acres of federal lands that have gone untapped for responsible outdoor recreation use. This bipartisan legislation will make bike trails more accessible and safer across America and will provide a much-needed boost to the growing outdoor recreation economy,” said Luján. “I have always enjoyed getting out on my mountain bike to explore New Mexico’s beautiful landscapes, and this legislation will make those outdoor spaces more accessible to Americans across the country.”

“The longest continuous single track mountain bike trail in the U.S. is lucky to call North Dakota home. As the former North Dakota Tourism Director, I know the Maah Daah Hey and other bike trails provide enriching recreational experiences and economic opportunities for our communities. Our bill identifies long-distance bike trails on public lands for all to enjoy,” said Cramer.

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has scheduled a hearing on the measure, and others, for Thursday.

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