Last updated on October 24, 2025
Yes, electric scooters are allowed in some U.S. national parks, but their use is regulated and varies by park. Visitors must check local park rules before riding.
Rolling Through Nature: The Electric Scooter Question
Imagine gliding past towering redwoods or cruising alongside a canyon rim, the hum of your electric scooter barely louder than the wind. It sounds like a modern twist on the classic American road trip—but is it legal? The short answer is yes, but with a few important caveats.
Electric scooters, like many emerging mobility devices, have sparked both excitement and debate in the National Park System. As technology evolves, so do the ways people explore the great outdoors. But national parks aren’t just playgrounds—they’re protected landscapes governed by a complex web of federal regulations. So, where do electric scooters fit in?
The Legal Landscape
The National Park Service (NPS) classifies electric scooters under the category of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMDs). These are defined as battery-powered or fuel-powered mobility devices that are not primarily designed for individuals with disabilities but may be used by them for locomotion. Examples include Segways, golf carts, and yes—electric scooters.
According to the NPS, OPDMDs may be permitted in areas where foot travel is allowed, but each park has the authority to regulate their use based on safety, environmental impact, and visitor experience. This means that while electric scooters are not banned outright, their use is subject to local park policies. Some parks may allow them on paved roads or designated trails, while others may restrict them entirely.
Accessibility vs. Recreation
There’s an important distinction between electric scooters used for accessibility and those used for recreation. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), mobility devices that meet the definition of a wheelchair are allowed anywhere foot traffic is permitted. This includes electric scooters designed specifically for individuals with mobility impairments.
However, recreational scooters—like those rented in cities or brought in by tourists—don’t automatically qualify. Parks must evaluate whether their use is safe and compatible with the preservation of natural resources. Factors like trail width, terrain, wildlife sensitivity, and congestion all play a role in determining access.
Park-by-Park Policies
Because the NPS oversees more than 400 units—from urban parks to remote wilderness—there’s no one-size-fits-all rule. For example, Golden Gate National Recreation Area may allow electric scooters on certain paved paths, while Yellowstone National Park might restrict them to roadways or prohibit them altogether.
The best advice? Always check the specific park’s website before your visit. Many parks have dedicated accessibility and recreation pages that outline what’s allowed and where. And if you’re unsure, contact the park directly—rangers are happy to help.
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Sources
Mobility Devices – Accessibility (U.S. National Park Service)
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/accessibility/mobility-devices.htm
Published: March 15, 2023
Motorized Recreational Use | U.S. Department of the Interior
https://www.doi.gov/ocl/motorized-recreational-use
Published: July 13, 2005