San Juan National Forest

This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the San Juan National Forest for the 2026 season! Historic rainfall and flooding this fall has resulted in damage, unsafe conditions and closure of many National Forest roads. Some County roads and Highways are also experiencing damage closures. Forest road access, especially on the Columbine and Pagosa Districts, will be more difficult this season. The recent rain and flooding make it important to be informed and prepared before heading out to harvest a Christmas tree this year. Before purchasing, review the Alerts, Current Conditions and Closure Order pages below to understand road conditions and access across the Forest: Alerts: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/sanjuan/alerts?utm_source=MarketingCloud&utm_medium=email Current Conditions & District Road Status Maps: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/sanjuan/conditions Closure Order: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/sanjuan/alerts?utm_source=MarketingCloud&utm_medium=email Have a Merry Christmas! See below to help you choose and measure a tree that meets your permit's guidelines. Cut these trees: White Fir, Subalpine Fir, Spruce Do NOT cut these trees: Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir Tree Height: 20 feet maximum Stump height: 6 inches maximum Cut down the entire tree. Do not remove only the top of the tree Do not leave a partially cut tree with only a few green branches. Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them. If you are cutting a tree in deep snow, dig out the base before cutting to ensure you are cutting down the entire tree and not leaving a tall stump. Check Current Conditions & District Road Status Maps for your area before you buy a permit and head out to harvest a tree. Watch out for flood and rain damage and report unmarked road hazards. Consider safely parking near closure gates and going for a hike to harvest your Christmas tree this year. https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/sanjuan/conditions Do not cut in active timber sales or areas that have been planted with new trees. Do not cut trees within all designated wilderness areas, wilderness study areas, special recreation areas, or research natural areas Do not cut trees within 100 feet of campgrounds, private lands, and administrative sites Do not cut trees within 100 feet of county roads or state or federal highways Please avoid cutting near wetlands, riparian areas and loose or unstable soils. Do not cut trees in La Plata Canyon near Durango Near Cortez-Dolores, do not cut trees in these areas: Sage Hen Wildlife Area, McPhee and Lone Dome Recreation Areas from McPhee Dam to Bradfield Bridge, and Narraguinnep Research Natural Area; Within 1/4 mile of West Mancos Road (FS#561) between the Forest boundary and Transfer Campground. HUNTING SAFETY NOTE: Please note, this year Third and Fourth Big Game Rifle Hunting Seasons overlap with Christmas tree cutting season.   Third rifle season: November 7 – November 15 Fourth rifle season: November 18 – November 22 If you are out during these times, please wear fluorescent orange, and be aware you may hear rifle shots in the distance. If you have questions, please call us during business hours: Durango 970-247-4874 9:00am-3:00pm, closed Wednesdays Bayfield 970-884-2512 8:00am-3:00pm, Fridays only Pagosa 970-264-2268 8:00am-4:30pm, closed 12:00-1:00pm Dolores 970-882-7296 8:00am-4:30pm Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark. If the tree is too big to transport inside of your vehicle, wrap it in canvas to prevent wind damage. 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. 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; 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. Check Weather and Forest Road Conditions before you go. https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/sanjuan/conditions 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. 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. Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and winds. Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as an overnight survival kit in case you become stranded. Start your day early. Be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark. Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain. Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. 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.