With one day left before the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) office in Montana stops accepting public comments, opponents to bike access are stepping up their efforts to eliminate mountain biking in cherished places. Despite the attacks, IMBA and local affiliates like the Montana Mountain Bike Alliance are committed to finding inclusive, long-lasting solutions and building a broad base of support for protecting Montana’s public lands.

Please take action NOW by with IMBA’s Action Alert. The deadline for comments is Friday, July 18.

Lionhead, the area in question — which includes 18.5 miles of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail — should be protected from resource extraction and unauthorized recreation. It does not, however, need to be protected from the well-established, low-impact use of mountain biking.

Continental Divide Trail Targeted

The areas in question contain 32 miles of singletrack, including 18.5 miles of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDNST). They are scenic cross-country routes and do not feature “freeride” or “extreme” mountain biking. The local bike shop in West Yellowstone frequently recommends these trails as the area’s best options for intermediate and experienced riders.

Bicyclists have been riding several of these trails since they were built, and the character of the land remains wild and pristine. The area is already designated for non-motorized use, and the continued presence of bicycles will not damage the resource or diminish its character. IMBA is asking for access to 32 miles of trail, in an area surrounded by 3.5 million acres that are off-limits to bicycles.

The USFS can protect the land and allow for continued bicycling — there is no need to choose between the two. Lionhead is a perfect candidate for a congressional designation, such as National Scenic Area, that can permanently protect the area from development while allowing continued bicycle access.

Anti-Bike Arguments Marred by Errors

The anti-bicycle campaign being conducted in Montana is marred by unfounded accusations and factual errors.

  • Leading recreation scientists have concluded that the impacts of mountain biking are equivalent to hiking, and less than equestrian use. Mountain biking does not compromise the natural qualities of the landscape.
  • The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is no substitute for lost singletrack, as it is almost entirely comprised of dirt roads.
  • The CDNST is intended for shared use, including foot and horse travel and bicycling. Like all National Scenic Trails the CDNST was established by Congress to provide for “maximum outdoor recreation potential, and for the conservation and enjoyment of the nationally significant scenic, historic, natural, or cultural qualities of the areas through which such trails may pass.”
  • Congress has stated that the potential uses for National Scenic Trails (excepting the Appalachian Trail) include but are not limited to, “bicycling, cross-country skiing, day hiking, equestrian activities, jogging or similar fitness activities, trail biking, overnight and long-distance backpacking …” (16 USC §1246).

Mountain Biking Benefits Montanans

The Outdoor Industry Association points out that cycling is frequently the springboard to any other recreational activities such as hiking, fishing and camping. According to their most recent state-by-state report on outdoor recreation, Montanans strongly benefit from the state’s diverse recreation offerings:

  • Recreation contributes over $2.5 billion annually to Montana’s economy.
  • Supports 34,000 jobs across Montana.
  • Generates $118 million in annual state tax revenue.
  • Produces nearly $2 billion annually in retail sales and services across Montana, accounting for 7.5 percent of gross state product.

Active outdoor recreation creates sustainable long-term economic growth and community development throughout Montana. Mountain biking is a vibrant part of Montana’s recreation scene, and is thoroughly compatible with protecting the state’s incredible natural resources. IMBA and its affiliated clubs in Montana will continue working for broad-based, inclusive solutions and building coalition support for lasting land protections in Montana.