If you have ever seen the movie “Christmas Vacation”, you certainly can picture the Griswold family embarking on a noble but ill-fated quest to find the “perfect” Christmas tree—only to forget a saw. While your trip to the Eldorado National Forest to cut your own tree doesn’t need to be quite so adventurous, it can still be a fun, family-friendly experience.
First, you’ll need to get a permit. Visit recreation.gov and look for Eldorado National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing. Permits typically sell out quickly, so plan ahead.
Once you have your permit, it must be carried with you on your trip to find your tree. You will also need to print or download a Christmas tree permit map to locate legal cutting areas. Some popular spots include Ice House Road, which takes you through a beautiful stretch of wilderness known for its towering evergreens; Silver Fork Road near Kyburz, with scenic mountain views and an abundance of trees, making it a perfect spot to search for that ideal Christmas tree; Georgetown Divide, a quieter, more remote area less frequented by other tree hunters.
While driving into the forest, you’ll find breathtaking views, snow-dusted landscapes (if you’re lucky), and plenty of trees to choose from. Be sure to follow forest guidelines, such as selecting trees less than 20 feet tall and leaving a stump 6 inches high or less. And, unlike the Griswolds, don’t forget your saw!
If permits sell out, or you want to make things easier with little ones, these Camino-based farms typically provide tools and assistance, ensuring a convenient, but still memorable tree-cutting experience:
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McGee: Growing quality trees since 1952, their 20-acre plantation has one of the largest selections in the county.
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Crystal Creek: A family-friendly farm with several options for cut-your-own trees.
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Indian Rock: Serving the community for more than 63 years and known for beautiful views. They even send Christmas trees to soldiers overseas who are from El Dorado County.
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Hillside: Offers a variety of trees in a scenic atmosphere. Purchase a tree and you get a free ride on the kiddie train!
Cutting your own Christmas tree adds a special rustic touch to your holiday season while also helping with forest management and wildfire prevention. Even if your tree-hunting adventure turns into a Griswold-style misadventure, it’s the memories you make along the way that will truly last a lifetime.