How To Cut Down Your Own Christmas Tree In Montana

The holidays are a magical time of year in Montana, and if you want to start a fun family tradition, cutting down your own Christmas tree is a great way to spend time together outdoors, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Here's what you need to know if you

It's officially that time of year. The holidays are upon us, and after Thanksgiving, we'll be gearing up for Christmas. A lot of folks in Montana have already began decorating and putting up Christmas lights. After all, we could use a little more joy in our lives.

Cutting Down Your Own Christmas Tree: What You Need to Know

Christmas tree permits are available now, and the fee is only $5. Click here to purchase your permit online. Once you have a permit, you can cut down a Christmas tree anywhere in the Custer Gallatin National Forest except for designated Wilderness Areas, Recreation Areas, or a developed recreation site, like a campground.

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How to Pick the Perfect Christmas Tree

• Stump height: 6 inches maximum (lower the better)
• Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree
• No cutting of 5 needle pines (i.e. 5 needles in one cluster)
• Limber Pine and White Bark Pine trees are NOT permitted. If unsure, please check with your local ranger district about tree species identification and restrictions.
• If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height
• Be Alert! There are many dead and dying trees that could fall at the slightest disturbance!

Before you head out to get your tree, make sure you're prepared. Weather conditions in Montana can change rapidly. Dress warm, and make sure you have proper footwear that will give you traction and keep your feet dry. I had to learn that lesson the hard way.

The Custer Gallatin National Forest offers motor vehicle use maps that will help you plan your trip. To view the maps, click here.