_Bear Lake Road._ This is a short spur road, leaving from Beaver Meadows Entrance on one of the eastern approaches to Trail Ridge through Moraine Park and Glacier Basin to Bear Lake, nestled at the foot of the high mountains. Everyone should make this trip, if time permits—an extra hour or so will do it. The road traverses glaciated meadows and moraines; it affords splendid views of Longs Peak. Great stands of aspen on Bierstadt Ridge make this a colorful drive in autumn. Bear Lake, at the end of the road—the only high lake in the park accessible by auto—is a foreground for the view up Tyndall Gorge, with the sheer cliff of Hallett Peak making a dramatic backdrop to the alpine scene. A half-mile trail encircles the lake, giving different scenic effects with every step, and nature-trail labels aid in enjoyment of the rocks, wildflowers, and trees. A short hike—a mile or so—from Bear Lake to Dream Lake gives you an opportunity to escape auto traffic and see some of the park, without undertaking too arduous a climb. Trail Trips You are urged to take at least one trail trip, for only on the trails can you experience the real essence of the mountains. Everyone has his favorite trail; you can make your own selection. The first decision is whether to hike or ride a horse—or to try both methods. In any case, leave your car behind for at least 1 day of your visit. [Illustration: Although Grand Lake is outside the park, an excellent view of it can be obtained from within the park.] Certain rules covering trails should be observed: _To avoid getting lost stay on designated trails. Repeated short cuts damage the trails, necessitating repairs._ _If you are hiking, yield right-of-way to horses by standing quietly off the trail as the riders pass._ _Deposit trash in receptacles; keep trails free of litter._ _If you plan to cook out, obtain a fire permit from a park ranger. This is a fire-protection regulation._ _Leave dogs behind. Their presence on trails disturbs wildlife._ With some 200 miles of trails in the park, beginning at a dozen different points and ending at scores of destinations, you may have difficulty planning your trail trips before you arrive. Information on the various trail trips is best obtained after you get to the park. The park rangers, the museum attendants, the naturalists, and the saddle-horse operators can help you outline trips. [Illustration: A short hike from Bear Lake takes you to Dream Lake, with its matchless view up Tyndall Gorge.] A brief description of a few of the popular trips follows: _Trails from Bear Lake._