Caribou-Targhee National Forest Christmas Tree Permit
Caribou-Targhee National Forest
This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest! The Caribou-Targhee National Forest has offered Christmas trees for many years. 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.
The permit must be printed and be clearly visible on the dashboard of your vehicle when transporting your Christmas tree.
There are two permit areas to choose from. You are limited to one tree per household. Purchase one tree in the area that you are most likely be cutting your Christmas Tree. If your plans change, the permit will be valid for both areas but please consult the appropriate maps and Ranger District information.
- The Caribou Zone is the southern part of the Forest which includes Montpelier, Soda Springs, and Westside Ranger Districts.
- The Targhee Zone is the northern part of the Forest which includes Dubois, Ashton-Island Park, Teton and Palisades Ranger Districts.
Please be sure to read and agree to all the tips and guidelines when selecting your tree.
Check out the Caribou-Targhee Christmas Tree webpage for more information!
Need to Know
Where to Cut Your Tree
Do not cut trees in or around private, state or Bureau of Land Management lands, wilderness areas, wilderness study areas, state parks, campgrounds, organized sites, summer home areas, administrative sites (guard stations), ski areas, or other developed recreation areas.
Please avoid riparian areas, which are sensitive and difficult to regenerate.
Make sure you cut your tree on public lands. Some Ranger Districts have designated areas or areas with restrictions. Consult the maps and office of the Ranger District you wish to cut your Christmas tree from for additional information.
When visiting your Forest, please abide by the current travel restrictions outlined in the District’s travel plan. More information can be provided at each Ranger District.
Selecting Your Tree
Each forest has limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit's guidelines.
Tree Height: 20 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.
Help us manage trees for future generations. Cut conifer Christmas trees within aspen stands to allow the aspen trees to expand or from a clump of conifer trees to allow the remaining trees more space to grow. Select a tree with defects and leave the healthiest trees to grow.
Planning Your Trip
How to Plan Your Trip
Ensure that you, your family and your vehicle are properly equipped for winter travel before leaving.
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.
Bring additional warm clothing, a container of hot liquid, water, a lunch or snacks – your trip may take longer than expected.
Pack it in – Pack it out. Please keep your National Forest clean.
Carry a flashlight, tire chains, first aid kit, hatchet, ax or hand saw, good warm gloves, warm boots, and a rope to tie your tree down.
Helpful Cutting Tips
Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark.
Tie 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 on the top or bed of your vehicle, remember to have the trunk of the tree facing forward.
Place your tree in a location away from heat registers, fireplaces, and stoves.
Use only inspected electrical cords, an electrical short can cause a dry tree to burn in seconds!
Water, Water, Water --- Always keep your fresh tree in a stand that holds lots of water. Use a mixture of one part sugar to sixteen parts water. Don’t forget to check the water level daily and refill the reservoir with the water and sugar solution.
