5 Steps to Follow When Cutting Down a Christmas Tree in Summit County

Everything you need to know about cutting down a Christmas tree in the White River National Forest, in Summit County, Colorado.

Step 1: Purchase Your Permit

Christmas Tree permits go on sale November 16, 2022. You must purchase a Christmas tree cutting permit BEFORE you cut your tree down. There is a limit of five permits per person, and permits are not eligible for refund. Permits may be purchased from:

Permits are available online! – Click here to purchase your Christmas tree permit online (note: additional $2 processing fee for online transactions)
The Dillon Ranger District Visitor Center – 680 Blue River Parkway, Silverthorne. Open Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm. Closed weekends & holidays

Step 2: Pick a Location

Most of the White River National Forest is open for cutting, but please avoid the following areas:

Wilderness areas & proposed Wilderness areas
Developed recreation areas
Campgrounds
Ski areas
Within 100 feet of main roads
Within 100 feet of water source

Click here to view a map of the Dillon Ranger District Christmas tree cutting areas.

Step 3: Prepare For Your Excursion

Things to bring and think about before you go:

Before you leave the house to cut a tree, measure your space
Don’t forget your permit!
- if purchased online, take a screenshot
Rope or straps are necessary to secure the tree to your vehicle
The best tool to bring is a hand saw or camp saw
Snowshoes, skis, or microspikes are highly recommended for traveling in deep snow or ice
Dress warmly and bring layers; be aware that conditions can change quickly in the mountains. And don’t forget, it gets dark early this time of year!
Check travel maps and road conditions prior to heading out
Do not rely on cell phones, most areas of the Forest do not have service

Step 4: Follow Rules

Please observe these rules when cutting down your Christmas tree:

Any type of conifer tree may be harvested EXCEPT for the Colorado Blue Spruce – Please do not cut down a Colorado Blue Spruce
Trees need to be less than 15 feet tall and six inches or less in stump diameter (at the base)
Cutting the top off of large trees is prohibited (see photo)
Do not cut single trees in forest openings, find a small group of trees to cut from instead
Cut your tree as close to the ground as possible (stump height of six inches or less)
Attach your Christmas tree permit to the base of the tree stump BEFORE transporting
Trees must be used for personal use and cannot be re-sold

NEVER cut the top off of a tree – the tree will not survive

Step 5: Set Up Your Tree

Tips to ensure your tree will last inside until Christmas:

Once your tree is home, cut one inch off the base of the trunk and immediately place in water
Do not allow your tree to dry out – check water levels every day and increase humidity by misting the needles with water (Dry trees are fire hazards!)
Decorate & ENJOY!