We haven’t yet reached Thanksgiving, but Christmas tree season has arrived in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Residents who want a little adventure to go with their holiday festivities can now buy Christmas tree cutting permits in person at Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens and Cowlitz Valley Ranger District offices and many local vendors.
Permits are $5 each. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted.
Permits can also be purchased online at https://www.recreation.gov/. Additional administrative fees will apply to all online sales.
“It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information before purchasing the permit,” the U.S. Forest Service stated in a news release. “You will need to bring your printed permit with you onto the forest.”
There is a limit of five permits per household, and permits are valid for one-time use. Christmas tree permits include a map of areas that are closed to cutting and an information sheet with special instructions for cutting trees in the national forest.
Households with fourth graders can get a Christmas tree cutting permit for free. After earning their Every Kid Outdoors pass online, fourth graders simply need to show their valid paper voucher or Every Kid Outdoors pass at a national forest office for their free Christmas tree permit. Fourth graders and their parents should visit https://everykidoutdoors.gov/index.htm for more details and to obtain a paper voucher.
“To ensure a successful trip, make sure to plan and prepare,” the Forest Service stated in the release. “Ranger District office and vendor hours may vary, so be sure to call ahead to check current operational hours. Be aware that winter weather in the forest can change rapidly and that most forest roads are not maintained for winter driving.”
Forest Service staff recommend bringing traction devices and a shovel, extra food, drinking water, winter clothing, blankets, a flashlight and a first aid kit.
“Don’t forget a tool for cutting the tree and a rope or cord to secure it to your vehicle,” the Forest Service stated. “Tree cutting and travel may take longer than anticipated, so let a friend or family member know where you are going, get an early start and leave the woods well before dark.”
For additional information and a video on successful tree harvesting, visit www.fs.usda.gov/goto/gp/treepermit.
For more information on current road status and closures, visit www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/giffordpinchot/recreation#conditions.
This year, visitors can purchase Christmas tree permits at the following Forest Service offices and vendor locations:
Forest offices:
All Forest Service offices will be closed Thanksgiving Day Nov. 28, 2024.
Vendor Locations (call for hours of operation and information):
