Salmon-Challis National Forest Christmas Tree Permit
Salmon-Challis National Forest
This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the Salmon-Challis National Forest! Lifelong memories are built during these special times and we are happy to help with any information gathering you'll need to make this trip a safe and enjoyable one.
Please be sure to read and agree to all the tips and guidelines when selecting your tree.
Check out the Salmon-Challis Christmas Tree webpage for more information!
Need to Know
Selecting Your Tree
The Salmon-Challis National Forest has limitations on the size of the tree you are permitted to cut. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit's guidelines.
Tree Height: 12 feet maximum
Stump Height: 6 inches maximum
Take the whole tree. Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree.
If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height.
Where to Cut Your Tree
Not all Salmon-Challis National Forest lands are open to Christmas tree cutting. Please consult the Salmon-Challis National Forest firewood map to be sure you are in an area where Christmas tree cutting is permitted. Areas shown on the Salmon-Challis firewood map that are closed to firewood cutting and gathering, are also closed to Christmas tree cutting. Salmon-Challis firewood maps may be obtained from the Forest Supervisor's office or any of the Ranger District offices, or can be downloaded from the Salmon-Challis National Forest website.
Make sure you cut your tree on public lands. Remember, it is your responsibility to know that you are not cutting on private land, or to secure permission to cross private land in pursuit of your Christmas tree.
Cut your tree at least 100 feet away from either side of any main road, 200 feet from U.S. Highway 93, and 1/4 mile from the roadside of the Salmon River Road.
Cutting your tree is prohibited within wilderness areas, designated campgrounds, active or posted timber sale areas and tree plantations; and please do not cut your tree within 300 feet of campgrounds, streams, lakes, or ponds.
Please follow all Salmon-Challis National Forest travel restrictions. Open travel routes are identified on the Salmon‐Challis National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) and governs use of all motor vehicles on the Forest. The Salmon-Challis MVUM may be obtained from the Forest Supervisor's office or any of the Ranger District offices, or can be downloaded from the Salmon-Challis National Forest website.
Planning Your Trip
Helpful Cutting Tips
Tools you might want to consider bringing with you include a measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home; handsaw to cut your tree; gloves to protect your hands; warm boots; a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once it's cut; and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle.
Once you have chose your tree, make your cut below the lowest live limbs. If that is initially difficult, cut any remaining live branches from the stump and scatter them. Please do not top trees!
Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree may rub off needles and bark.
Before tying the tree securely to your vehicle, you may want to wrap it in a tarp or old blanket to protect the branches. If you transport your tree on the top or in the bed of your vehicle, remember to have the trunk of the tree facing forward.
If storing your tree outside for a few days before putting it in the house, keep it in an area protected from the wind. Also, freshly trimming the trunk just prior to decorating your tree will help the tree to absorb water.
How to Plan Your Trip
Check the latest weather conditions, Forest warnings and road closures before you leave on your trip.
Ensure that your vehicle is properly equipped for winter travel before leaving. Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain.
Ensure that you and your family are properly equipped for the task before leaving. Carry a flashlight and first aid kit. Consider bringing additional warm clothing, a container of hot liquid, water, and a lunch or snacks– your trip may take longer than expected!
Always let someone know where you plan to cut your tree and when you plan to return.
Do not park your vehicle where it will block traffic or otherwise cause a traffic hazard. Please do not block gates.
Pack it in – Pack it out. Please keep your National Forest clean.
