The rules for the ever-popular e-bikes in Yellowstone National Park are pretty simple. But what about rules for micro-mobility devices, like scooters, Segways and hoverboards?

Luckily for owners of these new forms of transportation, the folks at the National Park Service are on the job. Now park superintendents can make rules so you can ride your hoverboard and your only worries will be taking a spill, but being legal while doing so.

E-bikes are allowed on established public roads, parking areas, and designated routes where traditional bicycles are permitted. They are prohibited on backcountry trails, boardwalks and oversnow routes. The motor must not exceed 750W, and riders must follow all standard vehicular traffic laws.

Now, the National Park Service has announced final rules making it a priority to rethink micro-mobility device use that updates decades-old regulations for managing powered micro-mobility devices, including e-scooters, hoverboards and Segways, across the National Park System. The rule provides clear guidelines for visitors and park managers while giving superintendents the flexibility to manage these emerging technologies in ways that protect park resources and enhance visitor experiences.

Until now, NPS regulations classified micro-mobility devices in the same category as cars and trucks, meaning that powered micro-mobility devices were subject to rules about where they could be operated that were intended for heavier and larger conventional motor vehicles. This rule clarifies that superintendents have the authority to manage the use of powered micro-mobility devices in park areas where they are appropriate, including on sidewalks and gravel/paved paths. 

“This final rule provides a practical framework that keeps pace with evolving transportation technologies while ensuring the National Park Service can continue to protect the resources and experiences entrusted to our care,” said Jessica Bowron, comptroller exercising the delegated authority of the director of the National Park Service. “By providing greater clarity for visitors and flexibility for park superintendents, this rule supports thoughtful, park-specific management decisions tailored to how these devices are being used by visitors.” 

A check with Yellowstone National Park officials found “no changes have been made at Yellowstone at this time.” However, that is likely due to the rule being finalized Tuesday.

The rule does require the NPS to complete rule-making before allowing powered micro-mobility devices in locations that have never been improved by artificial or processed materials. In addition, the rule prohibits possession of powered micro-mobility devices in designated wilderness areas. Under the The Wilderness Act of 1964, motorized vehicles, motorized equipment, and mechanical transport — including cars, trucks, ATVs, dirt bikes, snowmobiles, motorboats, bicycles and game carts — are strictly prohibited on all public lands designated as wilderness.

The new rule does not address the use of powered micro-mobility devices by persons with disabilities, which will continue to be governed by requirements under federal law.

Should passengers on micro-mobility devices wear helmets and protective pads? According to NPS, you are strongly encouraged to bring a helmet, high visibility clothing, plenty of food and water, extra clothing, and a repair kit for your device, but it is not mandatory.

That said, future studies by the park might want to consider checking to see if grizzlies, wolves, elk, moose, badgers, wolverines and mountain lions are more likely to see someone on a hoverboard as a threat or as a food source than someone on an electric scooter or Segway.