In winter, the Juneau Nordic Ski Club grooms the West Douglas Pioneer Road. A handful of skiers were there on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023. iRide Alaska has applied for a permit from the city to use the West Douglas Pioneer Road for e-bike tours. According to, the company would offer three tours per day, six days a week from May 1 to Oct. 30.
That extra funding would be welcome, said Juneau Lands and Resources Manager Dan Bleidorn. At the meeting, he said upkeep for the city-owned road costs $10,000 to $20,000 per year. Whether it’s a trail or a road could make or break iRide Alaska’s plans for e-bike tours. Christopher Mertl, chair of the city’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, said e-bikes aren’t allowed on Juneau trails because they’re considered motorized.
No freaking way. And take your segues outta North Douglas as well.