Cut Your Own Christmas Tree in Northern California – A Fun, Affordable Holiday Tradition
- Kari Chilson
- Dec 4, 2025
- 2 min read
One of the best perks of living in Northern California’s North State is the chance to save money and make memories by cutting your own Christmas tree in the national forest. For just $10 per permit, families can head into the beautiful Shasta-Trinity or Lassen National Forests, pick the perfect tree, cut it down, and bring it home — all while enjoying a winter adventure in the mountains.
This beloved holiday tradition gets you outdoors in the crisp fresh air, sipping hot cocoa from a thermos, and — if you’re lucky enough to find snow — having an epic snowball fight on the way.
2025 Christmas Tree Permits – Only $10!
Shasta-Trinity National Forest: Permits, maps, and rules
→ https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/stnf/recreation/winteractivities (look for “Christmas tree permits”)
Lassen National Forest: Permits, cutting areas, and guidelines
→ https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/lassen/recreation/winteractivities
Important Safety Tips Before You Go
Buy your $10 permit in advance (each forest has its own permit).
Know the rules: tree species, height limits, stump height, and exactly where cutting is allowed (maps come with your permit).
Bring warm clothes, water, snacks, rope, a handsaw (no chainsaws in most areas), a tarp, and tire chains or traction devices if snow is present.
CRITICAL: Do NOT drive off designated forest roads or into snowy pullouts that look “fine.” Every year vehicles get hopelessly stuck or slide into ditches, requiring expensive tows or search-and-rescue callouts. If the road isn’t plowed or heavily traveled, park on solid ground and walk in — it’s safer and often more fun.
Tell someone your plans and expected return time — cell service is unreliable or nonexistent in most cutting areas.
Stay safe, leave no trace, and enjoy making memories that will last a lifetime.
Happy tree hunting and Merry Christmas from the mountains!
