Fire road is an unpaved path that is made for the management of wildfires. Mountain and gravel bike riders prefer fire roads as they are smooth and broad. Fire roads offer easier riding compared to singletrack.
Endurance riding is achieved by using fire roads to balance difficulty and speed. Fire roads provide long descents and ascents without the need to dismount the bike frequently. Gran fondos and bikepacking routes utilize fire roads to connect far-flung places. Fire road surfaces range from hard-packed to loose gravel and change the traction and tire choice. Fire roads also serve as access routes for emergency services during trail running and adventure racing, providing assistance and safety.