WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Senate passed the landmark Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act (EXPLORE Act) in a unanimous vote Thursday, advancing one of the most comprehensive outdoor recreation bills in U.S. history.
The bipartisan bill, championed by Colorado lawmakers including U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse and Sen. John Hickenlooper, includes a suite of provisions aimed at expanding outdoor recreation, addressing overcrowding, and supporting gateway communities. Advocates have praised the act as a pivotal moment for public lands policy, citing its potential to enhance outdoor experiences while bolstering the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy.
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Key Provisions of the EXPLORE Act
The legislation includes six major components:- The Protecting America’s Rock Climbing Act (PARC Act): Ensures climbing anchors are protected as an appropriate use in wilderness areas.
- Biking on Long Distance Trails Act (BOLT Act): Tasks the Interior Department with identifying at least 10 long-distance bike trails to connect cross-country segments.
- Outdoors for All Act: Secures funding for urban park projects targeting underserved communities.
- Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act (SOAR Act): Streamlines permitting for outdoor guides and outfitters across federal lands.
- Improving Access to Outdoor Recreation Coordination Act: Mandates cohesive outdoor recreation policies among federal land agencies.
- Trailhead Parking Improvements: Encourages the development of additional parking facilities near popular trailheads.
Economic and Environmental Significance
The outdoor recreation industry has grown by 36% since 2012 and now eclipses sectors like agriculture and utilities. Colorado ranks among the top 10 states for its outdoor economy, which plays a critical role in local job creation and community development.Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
“Our booming outdoor recreation economy creates jobs and drives local economies across Colorado,” Sen. Hickenlooper said. “This legislation ensures our public lands remain accessible while supporting the businesses that help us enjoy them.”
Rep. Neguse echoed these sentiments, calling the legislation a “win for Colorado” and the nation’s public lands.
A Bipartisan Triumph
The act’s unanimous passage in both the House and Senate highlights the broad political appeal of outdoor recreation. “This legislation is a testament to what we can accomplish when we work together to preserve our shared lands and ensure equitable access to them,” said Jess Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.
With the bill poised for President Biden’s signature, outdoor enthusiasts and industry stakeholders anticipate transformative changes to public land access and infrastructure.
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