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Remember SUGAR BEAR-MANIA in those heady, post-pandemic days of late 2021? Congress demanded tribute of a Christmas tree from the Six Rivers National Forest, and we served up that majestic 84-foot white fir that would soon be hauled across the nation and into history. 

Well, it’s almost Christmas again, and you can reenact this emotionally cathartic event on a somewhat smaller scale by acquiring your own Christmas centerpiece from Six Rivers National Forest. Get yours before the feds do! Here’s all the details.

Press release from Six Rivers National Forest:

Christmas tree permits will be available to purchase online through Recreation.gov beginning November 1, 2025. Details about designated cutting areas, dates, and types of trees that may be cut may be found here: Six Rivers National Forest Christmas Tree Permit.

“National forests offer exceptional recreation experiences for local communities to enjoy the outdoors,” said USDA Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “These experiences create lasting memories that persist through generations. Visiting a national forest to select a tree that will serve as the centerpiece for the holiday season establishes a meaningful connection between the local forest and a family’s story.”

To purchase a Christmas tree permit, visit Recreation.gov and search for Six Rivers National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction.

Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit and can apply by entering the pass or voucher number when purchasing a permit (note: a $2.50 reservation fee will be applied).

Cutting a Christmas tree also improves forest health. The permit system helps thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. 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.

For more information, visit these online resources:

• Recreation.gov Christmas Tree Permit page with map interface
• Help Center article “How Do I Purchase and Print a Christmas Tree Permit?”
• Cut a Tree for the Holidays from Your National Forest article
• Every Kid Outdoors Fourth Grade Pass program

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