As we approach 2025, the landscape for mountain bike and recreational advocacy in California is buzzing with action taking place across the local, state, and federal levels. From crucial policy discussions about electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) to pushing for increased funding for trail management, numerous major initiatives are on the horizon. PeopleForBikes attended the California Mountain Biking Coalition’s (CAMTB) Connected gathering earlier this fall and compiled key updates from the event.

Federal Advocacy: Pushing for Progress on Public Lands and Funding

One of the most pressing challenges facing California's recreational landscape is the continued lack of funding for trails and outdoor recreation programs. As budgets for agencies like the U.S. Forest Service continue to shrink, CAMTB and PeopleForBikes are looking for ways to bridge the funding gap. Federal advocacy continues to be a critical area of focus for CAMTB as federal funding for public lands is crucial to maintaining and expanding mountain biking trails and continuing recreational access. With budgets being uncertain, there is a direct impact on trail stewardship and infrastructure. 

Focusing on federal land designations is another major goal. Recreation and conservation groups are anticipating the signing of the Chuckwalla National Monument by President Biden before the Trump administration takes over in January. The Chuckwalla National Monument is seen as a positive step toward achieving California’s 30x30 goal (conserving 30% of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030) without further restricting access to biking. Federal land designations are crucial in maintaining access to public lands while also addressing broader environmental goals.

Local Elections: Building a Pro-Bike Movement From the Ground Up

Another critical focus at the conference was the ongoing work of mountain bike trail and advocacy organizations at the local and municipal levels. This vast network of local and community organizations supports individuals who understand the benefits of biking and helps them run for seats on local boards. Engaging in local-level decision-making is vital to securing long-term access to trails and other recreational spaces.

CAMTB is already laying the groundwork for the upcoming midterm elections in 2026, recognizing the importance of building a fund to support candidates and initiatives that back trails and biking across the state. Local elections are especially key. Lessons learned from successful campaigns can help refine future strategies and CAMTB is eyeing key opportunities to elect officials who understand the importance of trails.

eMTB Policy: Advancing Access

The ongoing push to improve access for eMTBs was another major topic during the event, especially in light of the growing popularity of electric bicycles nationwide. PeopleForBikes is working with CAMTB to ensure that Class 1 eMTBs — pedal-assist e-bikes — are recognized and allowed on trails and areas where traditional bicycles are permitted. Harmonizing and formalizing eMTB regulations across the state will make it easier for land managers to adopt consistent and clear policies. CAMTB continues to focus on best practices for eMTB use, including proper identification of Class 1 bikes, education about OCEVs (out-of-class electric vehicles), and proper trail etiquette. This approach is meant to build trust with land managers, ensuring that eMTBs are integrated smoothly into existing trail systems without disrupting the experience for other trail users.

Recreation, Conservation, and Wildfires: The Role of CAMTB in California's Future

The intersection of recreation and conservation is an area where CAMTB has made significant strides. With ongoing challenges posed by wildfires and climate change, the role of sustainable trail stewardship has never been more urgent. CAMTB is actively involved in several initiatives to address these challenges, including collaborations with the California Wildfire Task Force and Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship to create and bolster fire-resilient infrastructure that includes recreational trails.

Moreover, CAMTB is advocating for the inclusion of recreational assets — like mountain bike trails — in the state's post-fire recovery efforts. Often overlooked in recovery planning, recreational trails need to be properly mapped and managed in fire-prone areas. Agencies like CalFire and the USFS have historically not accounted for trails in their base maps, leading to gaps in recovery and stewardship. By ensuring that trails are integrated into wildfire planning and response, CAMTB is helping to safeguard these recreational spaces.

As the urgency of fire recovery expands, CAMTB and PeopleForBikes are leveraging opportunities to push for funding that can also be used for recreational trail infrastructure and trail management. By utilizing state partnerships as proving grounds for wildfire-related trail management, CAMTB aims to show that sustainable recreation and wildfire resilience go hand in hand.

CAMTB’s Ongoing Efforts for the Mountain Biking Community

Heading into the new year, PeopleForBikes and CAMTB’s work is more important than ever. By advocating for funding at the federal level, developing local political strategies, and advancing eMTB access, the CAMTB is tirelessly working to ensure that mountain biking remains a vital and accessible part of California's outdoor recreation landscape, and PeopleForBikes is proud to support their work. Whether it’s through policy advocacy, election strategy, or wildfire recovery efforts, CAMTB and its chapters are committed to building a future where trails are protected, access is maintained for bikes and eMTBs, and the mountain biking community thrives.