Colorado has this way of making tree-cutting season feel almost magical, especially when locals start heading into the mountains instead of lining up at crowded lots.
You can practically feel the excitement as everyone bundles up, grabs a permit, and picks a favorite spot they’ve probably been visiting for years.
I’ve scrolled through so many photos of Colorado families hauling their trees through the snow that it almost feels like I’ve been there with them.
And honestly, choosing your own tree out in the wild looks like one of those simple traditions that stay with you long after the season ends.
1. Pike National Forest
Families bundle up and trek through Pike National Forest every December, axes in hand and excitement in their hearts.
Located just southwest of Denver, this forest offers stunning views and endless rows of spruce and fir trees waiting to become holiday centerpieces.
You can grab your permit online or at local ranger stations before heading out into the snowy wilderness.
The forest roads wind through valleys and hillsides, making the journey part of the fun.
Kids love stomping through the snow while parents scout for that perfectly shaped tree.
Once you find your tree, cutting it down becomes a family tradition everyone remembers.
The permit costs around fifteen dollars, which is a bargain compared to tree lots in town.
Pike National Forest sits near Colorado Springs, so you can easily access it from Highway 24 or County Road 126.
Bring hot cocoa and plenty of warm layers for your adventure.
This spot remains a local favorite year after year.
2. Arapaho National Forest
Arapaho National Forest stretches across north-central Colorado, offering tree hunters miles of pristine wilderness and countless lodgepole pines.
Locals from Boulder and Denver make the short drive to find their trees among the towering peaks and frozen creeks.
Permits are available at ranger stations or online, and they allow you to cut trees in designated areas throughout the forest.
The scenery here is breathtaking, with snow-covered slopes and crystal-clear skies that make every photo look like a postcard.
Many families return to the same spot year after year, creating traditions that span generations.
You can access Arapaho National Forest from multiple trailheads along Interstate 70 or Highway 40.
The forest sits near towns like Winter Park and Granby, making it convenient for day trips.
Dress warmly and bring a saw or axe, as the trees here can be thick and sturdy.
Hot chocolate tastes even better after hauling your tree back to the car.
Arapaho remains a top choice for Colorado residents seeking authentic holiday experiences.
3. Roosevelt National Forest
Roosevelt National Forest offers rugged terrain and abundant blue spruce trees that make stunning Christmas decorations.
Located north of Denver and stretching toward Fort Collins, this forest attracts locals who crave adventure with their tree hunting.
Permits cost around ten to twenty dollars and can be purchased at ranger stations or through the Forest Service website.
The forest roads can be tricky, so four-wheel drive vehicles are highly recommended during winter months.
Families often pack sleds for the kids while adults focus on finding the perfect tree among the dense forest growth.
Roosevelt National Forest sits along Highway 34 and Highway 14, with multiple access points near Estes Park and Red Feather Lakes.
The address for the Canyon Lakes Ranger District office is 2150 Centre Avenue in Fort Collins, where you can get permits and maps.
Snow depths vary, so check conditions before heading out to avoid getting stuck.
Bring snacks and plenty of water, as some areas are remote and far from services.
This Colorado gem delivers unforgettable memories every holiday season.
4. San Isabel National Forest
San Isabel National Forest sprawls across central Colorado, providing tree seekers with high-altitude adventures and spectacular mountain views.
Locals from Pueblo and Colorado Springs drive up to find Douglas fir and white fir trees that smell absolutely incredible once inside your home.
Permits are available at local ranger stations, including the one at 2840 Kachina Drive in Pueblo, or online through the Forest Service portal.
The forest roads can be steep and icy, so prepare your vehicle and drive carefully during winter weather.
Many families bring picnic lunches and make a full day out of the tree-cutting experience.
The scenery includes towering peaks, frozen lakes, and wildlife tracks in the snow.
Kids enjoy spotting deer and elk while parents measure trees to ensure they fit inside the living room.
San Isabel sits near towns like Salida and Buena Vista, making it accessible from Highway 50 and Highway 285.
Dress in layers and bring hand warmers for maximum comfort in the cold mountain air.
This Colorado forest delivers both beauty and tradition every December.
5. White River National Forest
White River National Forest covers a massive area in western Colorado, offering tree hunters endless options among spruce and fir varieties.
Locals from Aspen, Vail, and Glenwood Springs head into this forest to find their perfect holiday tree surrounded by world-class mountain scenery.
Permits can be purchased at ranger stations like the one at 900 Grand Avenue in Glenwood Springs or online before your trip.
The forest roads wind through valleys and ridgelines, providing stunning views at every turn.
Many families make tree cutting part of their annual ski trip, combining two beloved Colorado traditions into one adventure.
Snow depths can be significant, so snowshoes or cross-country skis might be necessary to reach the best tree spots.
Kids love building snowmen while parents debate which tree has the best shape and fullness.
White River sits along Interstate 70 and Highway 82, with countless access points throughout the forest.
Bring a thermos of hot soup to warm up after your tree-cutting adventure.
This Colorado treasure offers unforgettable holiday experiences year after year.
6. Gunnison National Forest
Gunnison National Forest sits in west-central Colorado, providing locals with remote tree-cutting locations far from crowded tourist spots.
Families from Crested Butte and Gunnison venture into this forest to find Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir trees that thrive at high elevations.
Permits are available at the ranger station at 216 North Colorado Street in Gunnison or through the Forest Service website.
The roads can be challenging, with deep snow and steep grades requiring careful navigation and proper winter tires.
Many locals bring camping gear and make a weekend out of the tree-hunting experience, sleeping under the stars before heading home.
The forest offers incredible solitude, with fewer crowds than forests closer to Denver or Colorado Springs.
Wildlife sightings are common, including elk herds and snowshoe hares hopping through the underbrush.
Gunnison National Forest sits along Highway 50 and Highway 135, with access roads branching into the wilderness.
Pack extra food and emergency supplies, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas.
This Colorado forest rewards adventurous families with pristine trees and unforgettable memories.
7. Rio Grande National Forest
Rio Grande National Forest spans southern Colorado, offering tree hunters access to beautiful corkbark fir and blue spruce trees in stunning alpine settings.
Locals from Alamosa and Del Norte make the journey into this forest to find their perfect Christmas tree while enjoying breathtaking mountain views.
Permits cost around fifteen dollars and can be purchased at the ranger station at 1803 West Highway 160 in Monte Vista or online.
The forest roads vary from easy to challenging, so check conditions and plan your route before heading out into the wilderness.
Many families bring sleds to haul their trees back to the car, as some of the best spots require hiking through deep snow.
The scenery includes volcanic peaks, frozen streams, and wide-open valleys that make every photo look magazine-worthy.
Kids enjoy spotting animal tracks while parents measure trees to ensure they fit through the front door at home.
Rio Grande sits near Highway 160 and Highway 149, with numerous access points throughout the forest.
Bring extra warm clothing and snacks, as temperatures can drop quickly at high elevations.
This Colorado forest provides authentic holiday experiences far from city crowds.
8. Uncompahgre National Forest
Uncompahgre National Forest sits in southwestern Colorado, offering locals access to remote tree-cutting areas surrounded by dramatic red rock formations and snowy peaks.
Families from Montrose and Ouray drive into this forest to find Douglas fir and white fir trees that grow among some of Colorado’s most unique landscapes.
Permits are available at the ranger station at 2250 Highway 50 in Delta or through the Forest Service website before your trip.
The forest roads can be rough and icy, so four-wheel drive and winter driving experience are essential for safe travel.
Many locals combine tree cutting with visits to nearby hot springs, making it a full day of Colorado winter fun.
The scenery here differs from other forests, with red rock cliffs contrasting beautifully against the white snow and green pine trees.
Kids love exploring the unique landscape while parents search for trees with the perfect shape and size.
Uncompahgre sits along Highway 550 and Highway 145, with access points near Ridgway and Telluride.
Pack a camera to capture the stunning scenery that makes this forest truly special.
This Colorado treasure offers one-of-a-kind holiday memories.
9. Routt National Forest
Routt National Forest covers northwestern Colorado, providing tree hunters with access to pristine lodgepole pine and Engelmann spruce trees in remote mountain settings.
Locals from Steamboat Springs and Craig venture into this forest to find their perfect Christmas tree while enjoying some of Colorado’s best winter scenery.
Permits can be purchased at the ranger station at 925 Weiss Drive in Steamboat Springs or online through the Forest Service website.
The forest roads wind through valleys and mountain passes, offering stunning views of the Continental Divide and surrounding wilderness areas.
Many families make tree cutting part of their annual ski vacation, combining two beloved Colorado traditions into one memorable weekend.
Snow depths can be substantial, so bring snowshoes or skis if you plan to venture far from plowed roads.
Kids enjoy playing in the snow while parents debate which tree has the best color and branch spacing for ornaments.
Routt National Forest sits along Highway 40 and County Road 129, with multiple access points throughout the forest.
Bring hot drinks and plenty of snacks to keep everyone energized during your tree-hunting adventure.
This Colorado forest delivers authentic holiday magic every December.