Christmas Tree Permits on Lolo National Forest Available starting November 9
Missoula, Mont., November 6, 2023—Christmas tree permits will be available to purchase online through http://www.recreation.gov/ and from Lolo National Forest offices starting November 9.
“Visiting a National Forest to find a Christmas tree is a long-standing tradition and a fun way to get outdoors for you or your family,” said Katie Knotek, Recreation Program Manager for the Lolo National Forest. “These experiences help establish connections to the Forest and can lead to a lifetime of adventures and a commitment to caring for the land.”
To purchase a Christmas tree permit, visit www.recreation.gov and search for “Lolo National Forest Christmas Tree Permits.” It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction.
Christmas tree permits are also available for purchase from Lolo National Forest offices. For more information on office hours and their locations please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/lolo/about-forest/offices. Everyone is encouraged to call ahead to ensure permits are available.
Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit. Present your pass/voucher at time of purchase or enter the information online (note: a $2.50 reservation fee will be applied for online transactions). Learn more about Every Kid Outdoors at https://everykidoutdoors.gov. Kids of all ages can download, color, and decorate their tree with this Christmas tree ornament coloring page for a fun, handmade addition to their tree.
One Christmas tree can be harvested per permit for $5/tree and up to three permits can be purchased per person. When purchasing online there is a $2.50 transaction fee. Please display your permit on the dashboard of your vehicle when harvesting the tree(s). Permits are good on National Forest lands in northern Idaho (Nez Perce-Clearwater and Idaho Panhandle National Forests) and all National Forests in Montana.
Please observe the following regulations when selecting and harvesting your National Forest Christmas tree:
- Do not cut trees from plantations or within developed recreation areas, campgrounds, or the following areas: Blue Mountain and Pattee Canyon Recreation Areas or the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area.
- Do not leave branches on the stump and trim the stump to no more than six inches above the soil.
- Do not cut the tops off trees and do not cut down trees taller than 12 feet.
- Do not cut trees within 150 feet of riparian areas (creeks or streams) or within Wilderness areas.
Cutting a Christmas tree improves forest health. The permit system helps to thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide food for wildlife.
For more information about the Lolo National Forest, please visit the website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/lolo or follow updates on Facebook and X.
