The bill was then referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, where it was marked up and passed by the committee in 2022.
The Origins of the Biking on Long-Distance Trails Act
The Biking on Long-Distance Trails Act was first introduced in Congress by Senators Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) in 2021. The bill aimed to provide federal funding for the development and maintenance of long-distance trails, with a focus on promoting cycling tourism and economic growth in rural areas. The bill was initially met with bipartisan support, with many lawmakers recognizing the benefits of investing in long-distance trails.
Key Provisions of the Act
The Biking on Long-Distance Trails Act includes several key provisions that aim to support the development and maintenance of long-distance trails. Some of the key provisions include:
The Origins of the BOLT Act
The BOLT Act, officially known as the “Bike Infrastructure to Local Transportation Act,” was signed into law by President Joe Biden on November 15, 2022. The law aims to provide funding for the development of bike infrastructure across the United States.
The BOLT Act also defines a bikepacking route as a route that is at least 80 miles long and is designed for bikepacking.
The Rise of Bikepacking
Bikepacking has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many outdoor enthusiasts embracing the unique combination of cycling and backpacking. The sport has gained significant traction, with numerous bikepacking events and festivals taking place across the country.
Key Features of Bikepacking
The BOLT Act and Bikepacking Regulations
The BOLT Act, which stands for the “Building Out Long-Term Trails Act,” is a federal law that aims to promote the development of long-distance trails in the United States. The law defines a long-distance trail as being at least 80 miles long and provides funding for the construction and maintenance of these trails.
Impact of the BOLT Act on Bikepacking
The trail, which spans 223 miles, is currently under construction and will be completed in 2025. The BOLT Act allows federal agencies to propose construction projects without needing to obtain a permit from the US Forest Service.
Connecting the Wasatch Mountains with a 35-mile trail network.
The trail is a 35-mile long, multi-use trail that spans the Wasatch Mountains in Utah. It was built using a combination of federal and state funding, and it has become a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.
The Trail’s History and Development
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail was first proposed in the 1980s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that construction began. The trail was designed to connect the existing trails in the Wasatch Mountains, providing a continuous route for users to access the higher elevations. The trail’s development was a collaborative effort between the federal government, the state of Utah, and local landowners. The trail was built using a combination of federal and state funding, with the US Forest Service and the Utah Department of Natural Resources providing significant support. The trail’s construction required the acquisition of private land, which was facilitated by the use of easements and other land-use agreements.
The EXPLORE Act: A Rare Bipartisan Effort
The EXPLORE Act, introduced in 2021, is a landmark piece of legislation that aims to improve the nation’s trail infrastructure.
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