Inyo National Forest

Create lifelong memories with your family by collecting a Christmas tree on the Inyo National Forest for the holiday season. Obtain a permit (1/household) through this webpage, and be sure to review the maps below to avoid cutting in prohibited areas. Tree Height: 20 feet maximum Stump height: 8 inches maximum when measured from bare soil Stump diameter: 6 inches maximum Do not cut isolated trees growing in the open. Ensure the tree you've selected is within 20 to 30 feet of another living tree. Take the whole tree, not just the top of the tree. Ensure the remaining stump does not have any living branches still attached. If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height. Do not cut any tree with needles in clumps of five or hardwoods. Popular species for Christmas trees on the Inyo include: Jeffrey pine, lodgepole pine, pinyon pine, western juniper, red fir, and white fir. This permit is non-transferable and non-refundable. Permit sales are final. Print and bring your Christmas Tree Permit when collecting. Display the permit in your vehicle dash or have it on your person. Do not trespass onto private property when cutting the tree. This permit is valid on lands administered by the Inyo National Forest only. Motorized vehicles are only allowed on existing roads and trails that are open to the public. No off-road travel is allowed (unless by snowmobile in open-riding areas). Refer to the maps provided on this webpage. Observe seasonal road closures and be prepared to hike to find a tree Park safely off the roadway and not to block gates or the flow of traffic. Only cut in areas as shown in the provided maps. Do not cut in active project areas. If you see crews and/or heavy equipment, please find a different location. Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark. Tools to bringing with you include a measuring tape; handsaw to cut your tree; gloves to protect your hands; boots to protect your feet; 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. Choose a tree from a dense forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow. Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them. If storing your tree outside for a few days before putting it in the house, keep it in an area protected from the wind, such as the north or east side of your house or under a shaded tree. Before you leave home, be sure to measure the space where you plan to place the tree in your home (height and width), and measure the space in your vehicle where you will be transporting the tree. Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Be sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you back. Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as an overnight survival kit in case you become stranded. Start your day early and be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark. Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and winds. Check the latest weather conditions, forest warnings and road closures before you leave on your trip. Bring a map with you. Don't rely on GPS because it may not be up-to-date with forest service roads. Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain. Bring a spare key and give it to someone else in your party. Don't get locked out of your car! Park in areas so that traffic can get by safely, and do not block gates. Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas.