Reports of motorized bikes (both dirt bikes and electric bicycles) have increased in recent years and are becoming a growing concern in the Dishman Hills, according to a recent article in the Dishman Hills Conservancy e-newsletter. The Dishman Hills area includes a mix of public and private land, including several public land units with different management objectives and rules, with dirt bikes and other motorized vehicles being prohibited on all trails. The rules for mountain bikers, however, are a bit murkier.
Some trails in the Iller Creek and Glenrose units allow traditional pedal mountain bikes. According to current Spokane County policy, both pedal-assist e-bikes and throttle e-bikes, which don’t require pedaling and are effectively electric motorcycles that can travel at a higher rate of speed, are currently prohibited on non-motorized Spokane County Conservation Area trails. Other areas, including the Dishman Hills Natural Area, which features miles of scenic hiking trails and prime urban-interface wildlife habitat, prohibit all types of bicycles and motorized vehicles on all trails.
Motorized vehicles and e-bikes are currently prohibited for several reasons, according to the Dishman Hills Conservancy, including fire danger, high speeds that can surprise people and wildlife, and the risk of trail damage. The nonprofit conservation organization also cites trespassing as a concern, which not only violates private property rights but also risks damaging relationships with neighbors—potentially limiting future land conservation efforts. Trail users are encouraged to respect posted regulations, practice good etiquette and report violations to Crime Check or Spokane County Parks.
