For Jacque Gustafson’s family, the tradition of cutting down a tree in the forest began long before her three children were born and has been passed down through the generations.
“Being able to give the kids that same experience felt special. We had fresh snow, hardly anyone around, the dog was running circles, and we caught an incredible sunset. It just felt wholesome and meaningful—like being provided for by Mother Nature,” Gustafson said.
Christmas tree permits for the Manti–La Sal National Forest are now available for the season. The program allows cutting one tree per permit in designated areas of the forest, offering an opportunity to participate in a long-standing Moab tradition while also supporting forest health.
“Cutting a Christmas tree also improves forest health. The permit system helps thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees,” according to a press release from the Manti–La Sal National Forest. “Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees that tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide forage for wildlife.”
The USDA Forest Service is a part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It is “grounded in world-class science and technology – and rooted in communities – the Forest Service connects people to nature and to each other,” according to its website.
The proximity of the Manti–La Sal National Forest to Moab provides a large recreational area for locals and visitors alike. The Moab Ranger District sits approximately 30 miles from town and is accessible year-round, though many forest roads are subject to seasonal closures. During the fall and winter months, when Christmas tree permits are available, several areas remain accessible by car. Participants who purchase a permit can choose from designated cutting areas and approved tree species.
The tradition makes for a memorable family experience, and the $12.50 permit fee offers an affordable alternative to store-bought trees. It’s a less expensive option than purchasing a live or artificial tree.
“This has become one of our favorite traditions. It’s so fun walking through the woods in the snow, looking for trees and trying to figure out which one would fit perfectly in our house,” Moab local Courtney Dare Reese Hill said. “We always end up making snow angels and snowballs along the way!”
Dare Reese Hill first learned about the option to cut down a Christmas tree from her coworkers at Moab Regional Hospital. She and her husband, Craig, recently started a family tradition of their own—one that’s only growing as they prepare to welcome their second child in March. This year, with their 3-year-old son Wylder, they located a tree at a spot in the forest they are familiar with.
“My husband is excited to teach the kids how to safely operate chainsaws, navigate through the woods, and make it a whole family experience,” Dare Reese Hill said.
In a region where public lands shape both recreation and livelihood, the Christmas tree program offers residents an opportunity to participate in Forest Service stewardship efforts and sustain local holiday traditions.
For more information on how to purchase a Christmas tree permit, visit Recreation.gov and search for Manti–La Sal National Forest Christmas Tree Permits.
Appreciate the coverage? Help keep local news alive.
Chip in to support the Moab Sun News.
