Boise National Forest Christmas Tree Permit
This permit allows you to cut a Christmas tree within designated areas of the Boise National Forest! Lifelong memories are built during these special times and we are happy to help with any information gathering you'll need to make this trip a safe and enjoyable one. Cutting a holiday tree from the Boise National Forest is a special tradition to share with family and friends while helping to maintain a healthy forest.
Christmas tree permits are available for sale November 9 and cutting is allowed beginning November 18.
Please be sure to read and agree to all the tips, guidelines, and General Permit Conditions when selecting your tree .
Additional information is available on the Boise National Forest website:
- Christmas tree information
- The updated Winter Travel Map is available to download using the Avenza map app! https://www.avenzamaps.com/maps/1350447
- Know where to go with the Motor Vehicle Use Maps (Scroll down the page: Use the Avenza map app to download free MVUMs to your smart device.)
Need to Know
Selecting Your Tree
Cutting or removing whitebark pine trees, whether green or dead is prohibited.
Maximum height restriction is 12 feet. Please do not cut trees over 12 feet tall.
Take the whole tree. Cut your tree off below the lowest live limb and within 6 inches of the ground surface (not the snow surface.)
Where to Cut Your Tree
Christmas Tree Cutting is Prohibited in the Following Areas:
Do not cut within the Pioneer Fire Burn scar on the Lowman Ranger District - see map
Do not cut on private, State, and BLM lands / Campgrounds / Summer home areas (Ten Mile and Warm Lake) / Plantations / Experimental Forests
Do not cut within 300 feet of all State Highways and within 300 feet of the following National Forest System (NFS) roads:
Do not cut within 300 feet either side of perennial streams and 150 feet either side of intermittent streams (dry streambed)
Do not cut along the Warm Lake Highway (NFS road 22)
Do not cut along the Banks - Lowman Highway (NFS road 24)
Do not cut along the Middle Fork Boise River road (NFS road FH82, old road 268) from the High Bridge to the intersection with the Swanholm road (NFS road 327)
Do not cut along the Swanholm Creek road (NFS road 327) from the mouth of Rabbit Creek and Deer Park
Do not cut along the Grimes Creek Road (NFS road 364)
Do not cut along the Non-Forest Service lands along NFS 307 between Idaho City and Centerville
Do not cut along the Park 'n' Ski areas and ski trails and active logging areas
Do not cut in any area posted with "No Christmas Tree Cutting" signs
Planning Your Trip
Helpful Cutting Tips
Help us keep the forest healthy. Choose a tree from a dense forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow. Cut the leftover branches from the 6-inch stump and scatter them.
Tools to consider bring with you: a measuring tape to ensure your select a tree 12 feet or less; handsaw to cut your tree; a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once its cut; and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle. Flag the tree if it extends longer than 4 feet past the tailgate.
Once home, cut the bottom of the trunk off and place the freshly cut trunk in water and replenish regularly.
How to Plan Your Trip
Tips for a safe and fun winter experience. Remember, cell phone service may be spotty or unavailable.
Tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
Check the latest weather conditions. Prevent hypothermia and frostbite by dressing appropriately. Wear boots, hats, gloves, scarves and weather -resistant clothing. Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as extra blankets and winter safety gear in case you become stranded. Keep your children and pets with you at all times.
Bring a map with you. Don't rely on GPS because it may not be up to date with forest service roads.
Drive safely and slowly, turn on your lights and check your vehicle's fuel level. Studded tires or chains are recommended for traction control. Carry a shovel and tow chain.
Stay on plowed roads and remember, heavy snowfall can quickly close roads and parking areas.
Park in areas so that traffic can get by safely and do not block gates or public roadways.
Please stop at all Forest Service compliance check stations
