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Flathead National Forest: Cut Your Own Christmas Tree (2026)

Has 2026 info 2026 season posted on the forest's Recreation.gov listing. Rules from the Forest Service page (updated Nov 26, 2025).

How your family can cut a Christmas tree on the Flathead National Forest in Montana, 2026 season. Every fact below comes from the forest's official pages, linked at the bottom.

Where can I cut?

• Flathead NF lands only.
• Follow the Motor Vehicle Use Map.

When can I buy a permit?

• Online sales opened Oct 8, 2026 (Recreation.gov).
• Cutting season: Oct 8 – Dec 31, 2026 (permit season listed on Recreation.gov).
• Trees can be harvested between October and December.

How much?

• $5 per tree
• Extra fees: $2.50 transaction fee on Recreation.gov.

How do I buy it?

What's an online permit? It's a permit you buy on Recreation.gov, the U.S. government's official booking website. You pay there, then follow the instructions that come with your permit.

• Recreation.gov (one online permit covers up to 3 trees) or ranger district offices (buy individual tags).

Rules to know

• How many: Up to 3 trees per household
• Max 12 ft tall.
• Stump max 6 in. high and 6 in. diameter.

Before you go

• Check this forest's official page and alerts the week you go. Rules, roads and closures can change.
• Cut only on National Forest land, never on private, state or tribal land.
• Forest roads are often unplowed. Check the weather and road conditions.
• Follow your permit's instructions for carrying, tagging or displaying it.

What to bring:

• Your permit (printed, if your forest asks you to print it)
• A hatchet, ax or saw (check your forest: some ban chainsaws)
• Warm gloves, boots and extra warm clothing
• Rope to tie your tree down
• A flashlight, first aid kit and tire chains
• Water, a hot drink, lunch or snacks (it always takes longer than expected)

Packing list based on the Forest Service's Christmas tree safety tips for the Chippewa National Forest. Before you leave, tell someone where you plan to cut.

Need firewood too? See the Flathead firewood permit page.

Sources

• Forest Service: Christmas Trees (Flathead) (page updated: Nov 26, 2025)
• Recreation.gov: Flathead National Forest Christmas Tree Permit (page updated: 2026 season listing (checked Oct 24, 2026))

Data Source: Recreation.gov

Last verified: Oct 2026 (2026-10-29).

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