E-bikes (electric-assist or pedal-assist bicycles) can be used wherever traditional bicycles are allowed, including regional trails, paved in-park trails and singletrack trails, if they meet the state’s definition and requirements (sections 47-50), which includes bikes that have:

• Two or three wheels
• A saddle (seat) and fully operable pedals
• An electric motor that is 750 watts or less
• Meet the requirements of a Class 1, Class 2 or Class 3 electric-assist bicycle.

A motorized bicycle that does not meet this definition is not allowed on any Park District trail.

All trail users, regardless of which type of bicycle used, must operate their bicycle in a safe manner and cannot operate at speeds faster than are reasonably safe with regard to the operator and other trail users (Park District Ordinance Chapter 6, section 7).

Passing should always be done on the left, and riders should give an audible signal when passing. When riding on regional and in-park trails, riders must yield to pedestrians and slower trail users.

E-motos are not e-bikes.

Operating e-motos on any Park District trail is prohibited. This includes both paved and unpaved regional trails as well as singletrack mountain bike trails.

E-motos are electric-powered two-wheeled off-highway vehicles (OHVs) that resemble dirt bikes. They often lack pedals, rely on a throttle for acceleration and can reach speeds greater than 28 mph.

Some e-motos may include pedals and look similar to e-bikes but they travel at much higher speeds, often include an optional throttle and are not classified as e-bikes.

Other e-motos are designed for road or paved use and are considered electric mopeds or electric motorcycles. These vehicles are subject to state motor vehicle laws and restrictions and are not permitted on any Park District trails.

Motorized foot scooters are allowed on the same trails as bicycles, and operators have the same rights and responsibilities as the operator of a bicycle, according to state law. The following Minnesota laws are specific to motorized foot scooters:

• A motorized foot scooter may not carry any additional passengers besides the operator.
• No one under age 12 may operate a motorized foot scooter.
• People under 18 who are using a motorized foot scooter must wear a helmet.

Foot scooters with gasoline or other liquid fuel-propelled motors are prohibited from Three Rivers trails.

Segways, motorized skateboards, hoverboards and other self-balancing motorized devices are defined in Minnesota law as “electric personal assistive mobility devices.” They are allowed on paved trails, or wherever pedestrians are allowed. They must be operated at a speed that is reasonable and prudent under the conditions. These devices are defined in Minnesota Statutes 169.011, Subdivision 26. For more information on operation of these devices, see Minnesota Statutes 169.212. 

The Park District will allow other appropriate power-driven mobility devices to assist persons with mobility disabilities to more fully enjoy park areas, facilities and trails. Please refer to the Park District’s policy on using motorized wheelchairs, mobility scooters and other power-driven mobility devices in the parks. If you wish to obtain a device permit please call 763-559-9000 or email access@ThreeRiversParks.org.