In its first summer, the Bear Lake Trail School gave nine boys instruction on outdoor subjects such as camping, forestry, botany, birds, geology, orienteering and horsemanship.
The Code of Living for each term often takes the form of written – and signed – set of standards and values (e.g., traits like respect, integrity, grit).
They recognize individual campers for following the Code of Living, helping others, assisting counselors, and conducting themselves to a high standard.
They were awarded for Citizenship, Horsemanship, Science, Guide, Physical Development, Mountaineer, Naturalist, First Aid, and Camp Improvement.
[8] Program patches include hiking, outcamping,[10] horsemanship, climbing, mountain biking, backpacking, and sleuthing.
A camper who attains the height of achievement with strong proficiency in all camping skills and programs can earn the Gold Spurs recognition.
[8] Cheley's facilities include five horseback riding rings, a climbing wall, a gymnasium, a fleet of mountain bikes, a low and high ropes course, a grassy amphitheater with a lighted stage, a soccer field, a fishing pond, and facilities for working with leather, paints, ceramics, and wood.
[16] Burn Camp includes day hikes, backpacking, technical climbing, horseback riding, crafts, fishing, evening campfires, songs and games, and sports.
In addition, firefighters from Denver and Estes Park and burn nurses from multiple countries join the staff.