E-bikes on Huron-Manistee National Forests
Northern Michigan (Northern Lower Peninsula & Mackinac), Michigan · Multiple (northern Lower Peninsula) · Managed by USDA Forest Service – Huron-Manistee NF
🟡 Only on routes open to motor vehicles
Last checked:
Which classes: Class 1-3 only on roads and trails open to motor vehicles (see the Motor Vehicle Use Map). Not on non-motorized trails.
The rules
The Forest Service treats e-bikes as motor vehicles. They may use roads and trails shown open to motor vehicles on the Motor Vehicle Use Map, but not non-motorized trails such as the North Country Trail or mountain-bike-only trails.
What the official source says:
Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes are allowed on motorized trails and roads on national forests and grasslands.
Source: USDA Forest Service – Huron-Manistee NF
📞 Call ahead: 231-775-2421 (rules and closures change)
Gear for this ride
- Thule EasyFold XT 2 hitch rackFolding 2-bike hitch rack rated for 65 lb per bike — enough for most e-bikes. Check your bike's weight first.
- Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini U-lockKryptonite's top-rated U-lock, Sold Secure Gold, for trailheads and town stops.
- Dynaplug Racer Pro tire plug kitFixes tubeless punctures on the trail with preloaded plugs.
- Topeak Mini Morph pumpFrame-mounted mini pump that fits both Presta and Schrader valves.
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Michigan's e-bike classes
Michigan has three e-bike classes: Class 1 (pedal-assist to 20 mph), Class 2 (throttle, up to 20 mph) and Class 3 (pedal-assist to 28 mph). All three need working pedals, a seat and a motor of no more than 750 watts. Michigan e-bike laws →
Not sure which class you have? E-bike classes explained →
Did this rule change, or is something here wrong? Tell us and we'll re-check it against the official source.
Nearby trails
- Pere Marquette State Trail 🟠 Class 1 onlyMichigan DNR – Parks & Recreation Division
- TART Trail (Traverse City) 🟠 Class 1 onlyTART Trails, Inc. with local units of government
- Leelanau Trail 🟠 Class 1 onlyTART Trails, Inc. with local units of government
- Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail 🟠 Pedal-assist onlyNational Park Service – Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore