Snowmass moves forward with e-bike trial on designated trails

Snowmass Town Council approved a request Monday to temporarily suspend enforcement of the town’s existing prohibition on Class 1 e-bikes on designated unpaved trails at Snowmass Ski Area.

The ordinance aims to establish a limited trial period from June 21 to Sept. 6 allowing Class 1 e-bike use on designated trails as part of an E-Bike Management Plan. While town code currently states that “It is unlawful for any person to operate any Class 1 Electrical Assisted Bicycle, as defined in Colorado Revised Statutes Section 42-1-102(28.5)(a), on any unpaved bike or pedestrian path or trail in the Town of Snowmass Village,” growing e-bike interest and use has encouraged the trial period for select local unpaved trails.

The suspended enforcement is exclusive to the Snowmass Ski Area, managed by Aspen Skiing Company.

“(Aspen SkiCo) agrees to fulfill their obligations listed within the Management Plan and will continue communicating and evaluating this trial with the Town, Regional Partners, and be receptive to any feedback while the trial is in place,” a summary presented to council reads.

E-bikes will remain prohibited on other unpaved trails within town limits.

“We’re receiving a lot of concern from people that don’t understand that this is both a trial period, and it’s designated locations,” Council Member Britta Gustafson said. “I think it’s important to acknowledge that this is a gentle progression.”

Mayor Alyssa Shenk asked if it would be possible to have signs at designated trails alerting hikers and runners to the presence of e-bikes, in addition to posting signs at all trails where e-bikes are still prohibited.

“That’s a good idea,” Council Member Tom Fridstein seconded. “Either people will not know, or they’ll pretend to not know.”

The rest of council seconded that enhanced, creative communication is key to this trial.

The ordinance will now advance to a second reading for final approval.