Christmas tree permits available for Kootenai National Forest

Halloween may not yet be upon us, but those looking forward to the holiday season can get a jump on securing a locally sourced Christmas tree.

Permits to procure a Christmas tree from the Kootenai National Forest became available online and in person on Oct. 15. While officials typically charge $5 for the permit, they are free this year, officials said.

“For many families, cutting their Christmas tree for the holidays on the Kootenai National Forest is a treasured tradition carried on for generations,” said Chad Benson, Kootenai Forest Supervisor. “For families creating new traditions, a trip to the forest to cut their own Christmas tree may be a thrilling experience as they discover the joy of hiking through the forest in search of the perfect holiday centerpiece.”

Owing to office closures related to the COVID-19 pandemic, officials are encouraging residents to secure a permit online at recreation.gov. Search “Kootenai National Forest Christmas Tree Permits” to find the relevant application form. Visitors must set up or login to a recreation.com account to complete the process.