Yes, trecking into the woods on a crisp December day to cut your own Christmas tree is a beloved tradition for many people. But, no, the trees growing in Washington’s state forests are NOT available to cut for Christmas.
We don’t mean to be Scrooges but the trust forests in DNR’s care are intended for sustainably managed habitat, clean water, and revenue to the beneficiaries of state trusts. These beneficiaries include public schools, state universities, and public services, such as libraries and emergency medical services, in many counties.
When we do hold timber auctions, we seek the highest return to fund these many trust beneficiaries, which means waiting until the trees reach maturity.
Fortunately, there are many federal lands where you can legally cut your own Christmas tree for a small fee. There also are local local private tree farms that will allow you to cut your own tree.
National Forests
- Colville National Forest
- Gifford Pinchot National Forest
- Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
- Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
- Olympic National Forest
Private tree farms
