Residents of Utah can officially start preparing for the holiday season by securing their Christmas tree permits from the Manti-La Sal National Forest. Beginning Thursday, Oct. 10, at 10 a.m., permits will be available for purchase online through Recreation.gov for $10 per tree.

The Christmas tree cutting season spans from Oct. 10 to Dec. 25, 2024. All necessary maps, tree selection guidelines, and rules are available on the Manti-La Sal National Forest’s permit page, helping families plan their perfect tree-hunting adventure in the Utah wilderness.

Cutting a tree in a national forest is a beloved tradition for many Utah families, but it’s essential to be prepared for unpredictable winter conditions in the mountains. Visitors should stay on designated roads and trails and be ready for slick, snow-covered routes in tree-cutting areas. According to forest officials, all trees must be cut close to the ground, leaving a stump no taller than six inches, and tree topping is prohibited.

To protect natural resources, cutting is not allowed within 200 feet of riparian areas (lakes and streams), roads, campgrounds, picnic areas, or other designated restricted zones. Anyone planning a trip should consult tree-cutting maps to avoid closed areas.

For additional information, local ranger districts are available for questions:

• Manti-La Sal National Forest Supervisor’s Office, Price: (435) 636-3500
• Ferron/Price Ranger District: (435) 636-3580
• Sanpete Ranger District, Ephraim: (435) 636-3300
• Moab Ranger District: (435) 259-7155
• Monticello Ranger District: (435) 587-2041

For more details, visit the Manti-La Sal National Forest website or follow them on social media for updates.

This holiday season, take part in a cherished tradition while enjoying the beauty of Utah’s national forests.