Cut your own Christmas tree on National Forest lands

The USDA Forest Service is offering cut-your-own Christmas tree opportunities on the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests this year. A permit is required. The required permit will cost $8 to $20, depending on individual Forest pricing. These permits are for personal use only and local restrictions may apply. There is a limit of two to five trees per household.

General rules for cutting your own Christmas tree

The trunk size should be around six inches in diameter; this is strictly enforced in some areas, some local exceptions may apply.

Bring a handsaw to cut trees.

You may not use chainsaws, snowmobiles, ATVs, or other off-road vehicles.

Cutting trees marked with blue paint is strictly prohibited.

Cut trees within four inches of the ground and below all live limbs, take the whole tree.

Pets must be leashed and under control; it is recommended to leave pets at home.

No trespassing on private property.

Be sure to keep the Christmas tree in water after it is cut.

Dress appropriately for cold winter conditions, wear appropriate boots for walking through the forest
For public safety, entry hours at all tree cutting sites are from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. during the cutting dates.
Thinning stands of smaller trees by removing some as Christmas trees reduces competition among all trees, helps reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire, and promotes healthier growing conditions for the remaining forest. For more information on Christmas tree cutting, safety, and directions to cutting areas within the Rocky Mountain Region, please check the Forest Service website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r2/recreation/?cid=fseprd562604.

Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forests

Permits for all areas must be purchased in advance via Recreation.gov and are available for $20 each. For more information, go to https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/passes-permits/?cid=fsm91_058252.