Shoshone National Forest

This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the Shoshone National Forest! Cutting your own Christmas tree can be an enjoyable experience for the entire family which lifelong memories are built during these special times. We are happy to help with any information gathering you'll need to make this trip a safe and enjoyable one. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience searching for your Christmas tree at the Shoshone National Forest, be sure to use designated motorized roads and to be aware of seasonal road closures. Maps and travel publications are available online and at the ranger district offices. Please be sure to read and agree to all the tips and guidelines when selecting your tree. On the Shoshone NF, do not cut whitebark pine.  Whitebark pine is similar in appearance to limber pine. The needles for whitebark pine and limber pine are arranged in bunches of five. If you are uncertain whether a tree is whitebark pine or limber pine, do not cut tree. Refer to the sketch in the Gallery and in the Map sections. 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: 4 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. 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, marked timber sales, and within 300 feet of campgrounds, lodges, summer homes, private lands, and administrative sites. When searching for your tree, remember that off-road travel regulations are in effect. Check with the ranger district office for more information about the regulations. Do not cut north of and on the Wind River reservation or in the Popo Agie Wilderness Area. When searching for your Christmas tree at the Shoshone National Forest, be sure to use designated motorized roads and to be aware of seasonal road closures. Maps and travel publications are available online and at the ranger district offices. 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. Choose a tree from a dense forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow. Be aware of where the tree will fall and ensure all members of your party (and your vehicle) are out of the path of the falling tree. Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them 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. Once home, cut the bottom of the trunk off and place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket of water. Replenish water. 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. 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.