Yuletide Tree-Cutting Season Underway

Christmas Tree Permits Now Available on Pike-San Isabel National Forest Areas 

Free Trees For Fourth-Graders Through Every Kid Outdoors Initiative

U.S. Forest Service 

The Pikes Peak, Leadville, Salida, San Carlos, South Park and South Platte ranger districts are selling Christmas tree permits for the upcoming holiday season.

Permits can be purchased online through Recreation.gov. There is an additional $2.50 processing fee for all online purchases. Recreation.gov offers maps of designated cutting areas as well as tips for selecting and cutting trees. Permitted dates and areas vary, so it is important to carefully read all information prior to purchasing.

Tree permit availability, cost, and limits by district:

*Leadville, Salida, and San Carlos ranger districts—Tree permits are available online and at the district office. The cost is $10 per tree permit with a limit of two permits per family. Cash, checks and credit cards accepted (cash or check only for Westcliffe and La Veta offices).

*South Park Ranger District—Tree permits are available online and at the district office. The cost is $20 per tree permit with a limit of five permits per family.

*South Platte Ranger District—Tree permits are available online only; a limited number is available. The cost is $20 per tree permit with a limit of five permits per family.

*Pikes Peak Ranger District—Tree permit sales will begin online November 29, and will also be available for purchase at the district office on December 2, between 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  The cost is $20 per tree permit with a limit of five permits per family.

Free ChristmasTrees For Fourth-Graders

All fourth graders are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit as part of the national Every Kid Outdoors initiative. First, obtain Every Kid Outdoors voucher or pass at https://everykidoutdoors.gov. Then, apply for the Christmas tree permit at Christmas Tree Permits – Recreation.gov where you can search for the forest by name. Click on Purchase Tree Permit. Enter information and check “I have a fourth grade Every Kid Outdoors Pass.” Enter voucher or pass number when prompted. Please note, this Every Kid Outdoors pass does not waive the $2.50 Recreation.gov purchase processing fee.

When venturing out to cut a Christmas tree, make sure to be on National Forest lands and on the correct ranger district. Bring a printed copy of the permit or Christmas tree tag along with a paper map as cell service may be unavailable. It is important to read all the instructions on where trees can or cannot be cut. Contact your local district for all guidelines and restrictions for that area. District office contact information can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/contactus/psicc/about-forest/contactus.

Forest Service roads are generally not plowed and some roads close seasonally. Handsaws and axes are the only tools allowed; chainsaws are prohibited. Dress in warm layers, bring a rope to secure the tree to the vehicle and enjoy the tradition. For more information about the Christmas tree program, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/psicc/passes-permits/?cid=stelprdb5103584.