PHOENIX — There's nothing like the holiday tradition of going into the forest and chopping down your own Christmas tree. If you haven't before, maybe this year can be a first!
The Coconino and Tonto national forests will start selling a limited number of permits to cut down a tree on Nov. 14. Tree cutting will begin at the Coconino National Forest on Nov. 15 and the Tonto National Forest on Nov. 23.
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Tonto National Forest permits
Permits to cut down a tree at Tonto National Forest cost $15 or free with an Every Kid Outdoors pass which is available for fourth graders.
“Selecting a Christmas tree from the Tonto National Forest is a cherished tradition for many families, while for others, it's a new experience that may soon become a beloved tradition,” said Timber Resource Specialist Michelle Williams of the Tonto National Forest. “The act of cutting down their own Christmas tree creates memorable experiences for most families. This tradition has been bringing families together during the holiday season for many years.”
You can also buy a pass in-person at the following locations:
- Supervisor’s Office, 2324 East McDowell Rd., Phoenix, Arizona 85006
- Payson Ranger Station, 1009 East Highway 260, Payson, Arizona 85541
- Globe Ranger Station, 7680 S. Six Shooter Canyon Rd., Globe, Arizona 85501
Park rangers suggest checking the Tonto National Forest website for more information about the Christmas tree permit program and to download instructions and maps. Be safe, have a plan, know before you go and most importantly, have fun!
Coconino National Forest permits
Officials with the Coconino National Forest will sell 1,300 permits through the Christmas tree permit site.
400 permits will be designated for areas within the Flagstaff Ranger District and 900 will be designated for area within the Mongollon Rim District.
"When purchasing a permit online, it is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction. Permits will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis until sold out," a statement from forest officials said.
Several other national forests are also selling Christmas tree permits online for their districts. To find out if online Christmas tree permits are available in your neck of the woods, visit www.recreation.gov and search for “Christmas Tree Permits” to pull up a list of all the national forests that are participating, officials said.
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