The folks over at Outdoor Alliance messaged us with some exciting news this morning that could have a massive impact on long-distance bike trails and bikepacking in the United States. Yesterday, the House passed the EXPLORE Act, a first-of-its-kind recreation policy package that will improve outdoor recreation on public lands and waters. Learn more about what this means for outdoor lovers and how you can help here…

Yesterday, House lawmakers passed the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, a first-of-its-kind bipartisan package of outdoor recreation policy to improve outdoor recreation on America’s public lands and waters. The passage of this outdoor recreation policy creates opportunities to improve how public lands are managed to enhance outdoor experiences for multiple user groups, including bikepackers. The Senate is expected to take up the bill in the coming weeks, as it has already introduced bipartisan companion legislation, America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA) that has passed out of committee. Highlights from the policy include:

  • The Biking on Long Distance Trails Act (BOLT Act) identifies and creates more long-distance bike trails
  • The Protecting America’s Rock Climbing Act (PARC Act) safeguards Wilderness climbing
  • The Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act (SOAR Act) improves recreational permitting for outfitters and guides
  • Codifies FICOR and the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership, which funds parks and green spaces in neighborhoods that need it most
Madrean Rugged Ramble, Arizona
  • Green Mountain Gravel Growler Bikepacking Route, Vermont
  • 2023 Arizona Trail Race

Now that the House has passed EXPLORE, it still needs a little help crossing the finish line. Consider sending a thank you to House members and asking Senators to take action in passing the package. The voices of outdoor recreationists matter tremendously. The Outdoor Alliance has made it easy to send a message to the right people and you can share your support by filling out this form. Also, read more about what the EXPLORE Act includes here.

Further Reading

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