Wanna pull a "Clark Griswold" and chop down your own Christmas tree? We've got some helpful tips to get you started!
Clark's "Old Fashioned Family Christmas" didn't quite go as he hoped in the fave holiday movie Christmas Vacation. And it all started with a poorly planned tree-cutting experience. Here's how to ensure yours is smooth, successful, and exactly as picturesque as you imagined. [caption id="attachment_27542" align="aligncenter" width="728"]
Image of the Griswold family in the film "Christmas Vacation"[/caption]
The first thing you must decide is whether you want to go to an actual "cut-your-own farm" or head up into the mountains to hunt one down on national forest lands.
National Forests
Heading into the mountains for the full lumberjack experience is not as difficult as you might think. It just requires a little planning and preparation.- Choose the region where you want to cut. If you live in Denver or along the Front Range, the closest tree-cutting areas are Fraser/Winter Park, Buffalo Creek, Red Feather Lakes, South Park/Fairplay, and Rampart Range Road. Before you decide on a location, check to see if four-wheel drive vehicles or chains are required and if you have what you need.
- Most regions are only allowing tree-cutting between December 2 and 9, but check your chosen region for its specific requirements.
Image courtesy of The Forest Service[/caption]
- Maps of the designated tree-cutting locations are provided on the Forest Service regions' websites (linked above).
- A $10 permit is required and must be purchased in advance. Each region's site lists the places where you can purchase a permit. Bring cash or check just in case credit/debit cards are not accepted.
- For the tree-chopping, you'll need an axe or handsaw (no chainsaws); straps or strong cords; a tarp; work gloves; and a sled (to help you pull the tree).
- For survival, you'll need a full tank of gas, water and snacks, sunscreen, and warm clothing.
- The permit must be attached to the tree before you begin to cut.
- Tree trunks must be less than 6" in diameter, and trees must be cut less than 6" from the ground.
Tree Farms
Tree farms (while not quite as idyllic as trudging aimlessly into the forest) have advantages, like often providing the saws and other tools for you to use. Plus, some farms commit to planting seedlings for every tree that is harvested. Also, the accessibility to restrooms and hot chocolate onsite is a big help, especially when you have kids in tow! Actual cut-your-own farms are running scarce, but here are a few of our favorites: Creekside Tree Nursery 6932 N. 95th St. | Niwot, CO 80504 (northeast of Boulder) Starts selling trees on Friday, Nov. 24 | Priced between $60 and $500 Detailed info on the experience and "science" available here. [gallery columns="2" size="medium" ids="27539,27537"] Your Neighborhood Christmas Tree Farm 4340 N 13th St. | Boulder CO 80304 Sells trees on Sat./Sun., Dec. 2–3 | Prices start at $8/foot Have a cup of hot apple cider and grill some marshmallows while you're there! Covered Bridge Ranch 17249 6250 Road (Dave Wood Road), Montrose, CO 81403 Starts selling trees on Friday, Nov. 24 | Credit cards accepted Other onsite activities include hay rides and marshmallow roasting, but it's quite a jaunt from Denver, so requires an overnight stay!
Do you have more advice for cutting Christmas trees? Which cut-your-own farm do you recommend? Please share your experience in the comments below!
