The Ebikes with pedal assistance are allowed on Millcreek trails like Grandeur Peak Shoreline Trail, but nothing with an engine is. 

The Millcreek City Council unanimously approved an ordinance that would prohibit motorized vehicles but allow regular mountain bikes and pedal-assisted ebikes on park or mountain trails.

“Reason we did that is that those vehicles generally have more torque and horsepower, and they tear up the trail more,” Mayor Jeff Silvestrini said. 

Violators would receive a ticket of $300 on first infraction and could impound the vehicle on second infraction. The ordinance gives police the ability to provide enforcement.  

City officials deliberated on the language ordinance for some time before landing on the iteration that passed. 

The ordinance defines which motor vehicles are prohibited specifically off-highway vehicle, mini motorcycle, motorcycle, moped, motor assisted scooter or golf cart. Electronic assisted bikes up to 750 watts are allowed. Each of those vehicles have specific definitions in the ordinance. 

“The council has been informed that motor vehicles are using trails that are designed, constructed, and intended for hikers and human-powered bicycles, not motorized vehicles, and that such usage creates a safety hazard to other trail users and threatens to degrade the physical condition of the trail, leading to erosion,” reads the ordinance. 

It also states those motor vehicles are not allowed within a park other than areas specifically posted for that purpose. City officials noted this ordinance is specifically meant for heavier vehicles. 

It’s an issue that can be found elsewhere around the state, with Heber City also working on an ordinance this past spring to determine what types of ebikes are allowed on their trail systems. λ