A two-year pilot, from 2019 to 2021, tested pedal assist electric bikes (e-bikes) on a sub-set of designated pathways and trail networks in the Kananaskis Region. This pilot assessed the safety of this activity and collected feedback from visitors. Since the pilot concluded, e-bikes have continued to be permitted on the pilot pathways and trails.

A user survey was conducted during the Kananaskis region e-bike pilot. There were 1,213 responses, with 993 surveys fully completed. During the pilot period, Albertans were able to provide feedback through email or web-based form “contact us” written submissions. Reports of any incidents involving e-bikes were also captured through public safety calls to Kananaskis Emergency Services. 

Analysis of results and visitor feedback determined that:

• most current e-bike use aligns with class 1 pedal assist e-bikes
• pedal-assist e-bikes are perceived as being very compatible in a park setting
• allowing pedal-assist e-bikes in parks presents low risk to visitor safety and park features.  

Following the pilot’s conclusion and analysis of results, pedal-assist e-bikes are now permitted on all designated pathways and trails where cycling is permitted. This includes provincial parks, provincial recreation areas and wildland provincial parks.

Cycling / E-bikes in Parks