• Cost:
  

  $20

  $20

  per tree permit for the Pike National Forest, with a limit of five permits per family.

• Purchase: Buy online at Recreation.gov. In-person sales are also available for some districts like Pikes Peak and South Park, but online-only purchase is required for South Platte.
• Every Kid Outdoors: Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass can receive a free permit by entering the pass number during purchase, though a
  

  $2.50$ 2.50

  $2.50

  processing fee still applies. 

• Tree size: Trees can be up to 15 feet tall and 6 inches in diameter at the ground.
• Cutting area: Stay within the designated cutting area specified on your permit.
• Prohibited tools: Chainsaws are not allowed; you must use a hand saw.
• Distance rules: Trees must be cut at least 200 feet from main roads and campgrounds, and at least 50 feet from backcountry roads, trails, and waterways.
• Timing: Be aware of specific cutting dates and times; for example, the Pikes Peak Ranger District cutting is often in early December. It’s recommended to go between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to avoid getting stuck in the dark. 

• Purchase your permit well in advance, especially if you are going to the South Platte Ranger District, as supply is limited and they can sell out.
• Bring a printed copy of your permit, a paper map, a handsaw, and a rope for securing your tree. 

Pike and San Isabel National Forest Christmas Tree Permit

Whether this is your first time cutting your own Christmas tree or it’s been a family tradition for generations, it is a special experience that creates lifelong memories! This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the Pike & San Isabel National Forests.

Please take the time to read the following information:

Permits are only valid on the district for which they were purchased. Permits are not transferable nor may they be extended from one year to the next.

Please print your Christmas tree permit and make sure you have it with you.

The South Platte Ranger District is closest to Denver. Permits in this district apply to specific cutting areas (Buffalo Creek, Sugar Creek) within limited date ranges and may sell out. The first cutting day is the Friday after Thanksgiving. The last cutting day is December 18, 2026. Permits are not sold for this day as it is considered a make-up day. If you purchased and are unable to use a permit on your scheduled day, you may use it on December 18, 2026 in the Buffalo Creek area only.

The Pikes Peak Ranger District is closest to Colorado Springs with specific cutting areas near Woodland Park. Permits go on sale November 18th with cutting allowed through December 23rd. There is not a quota, so permits will not sell out.

The South Park Ranger District is closest to the towns of Fairplay, Jefferson, Como, and Lake George. Most of the district is open for cutting and there is not a quota, so permits will not sell out. Cutting is allowed between November 7 and December 31. See district webpage for maps of suggested cutting locations.

The Salida Ranger District is closest to the towns of Salida and Buena Vista. Most of the district is open for cutting. There is not a quota, so permits will not sell out. Permits go on sale November 17 and cutting is permitted through December 31.

The Leadville Ranger District is closest to the town if Leadville. Most of the district is open for cutting. There is not a quota, so permits will not sell out. Permits go on sale November 17 and cutting is permitted through December 31.

The San Carlos Ranger District is closest to the towns of Canon City, Westcliffe, and La Veta. Most of the district is open for cutting. There is not a quota, so permits will not sell out. Permits go on sale November 17 and cutting is permitted through December 31.

Follow link below to purchase permit:

https://www.recreation.gov/tree-permits/49f7193c-e64e-11ea-a244-5e6d4b9f6262/order