Trimming the Christmas tree is a holiday highlight for many families. The first step is selecting a tree, and if you are a family that chooses to cut one down, this can be a significant part of the tradition.
In the Pacific Northwest, there are many options for cutting down your own Christmas tree. Follow these tips to make this fun holiday tradition go as smoothly as possible.
Select a Tree Source
If you don’t already have a favorite spot for selecting and cutting a tree, the first step is to find one. Proximity is often a factor, but you might decide it’s worth it to go a little out of your way to find the perfect tree. Below, we’ve listed some of our suggestions for where to cut your own tree in the Pacific Northwest:
Washington
- Carnation Tree Farm - Choose and cut your own Spruce or Fir and enjoy free on-site parking, twine, shaking and baling, and tree recycling with every Christmas tree purchase.
- Pfaff’s Christmas Trees - Choose from a variety of Fir types with flat pricing for each species. Santa visits on the weekends if you want to make it a family outing.
- Carver Farms - You can find both Blue Spruce and a variety of Firs on this farm, which also includes free hot cocoa and cider. Every tree, no matter the size or type, is the same price.
Oregon
- Westwinds Farm - If you like the idea of choosing your own tree, but don’t want to do all the work to cut it, this farm will do it for you while you warm up with a hot beverage.
- Plumper Tree Farm - Find your favorite Douglas, Noble, or Grand Fir, and this farm will provide a saw to cut it down. The kids can pet farm animals, try the big slide, or visit Santa on certain days.
- Christmas Mountain - This farm offers fun for the whole family with free wagon rides, candy canes, hot chocolate, and more. If you have your hands full with little ones, they can also help you cut your Noble or Douglas Fir.
Idaho
- Boise National Forest - If you want a truly rustic experience, get a permit to cut your own tree from your local National Forest.
- Pine Patch Tree Farm - Choose your favorite Grand Fir and either cut it yourself, or stay warm by the campfire while they take care of it for you.
The above are just a few examples of the many possible places to cut your own Christmas tree in the Pacific Northwest. You can find a comprehensive list of tree providers listed by state at this website. Always call before you head out to confirm that the farm is open and that they still have trees available.
In addition to farms like the ones listed above, did you know that you can cut your own Christmas tree from almost any U.S. National Forest? Check out the U.S. Forest Service’s guidelines for more details.
Take Measurements
Before you venture out into the wild to find the perfect Christmas tree, make sure you know your size limits. Measure the distance from floor to ceiling where you plan to put the tree, and also know the maximum footprint size the space can handle. If you already have a tree base, make sure you know the maximum tree trunk diameter it will fit before you cut. It’s not always easy to judge the size of a tree, so bring your measuring tape along to avoid cutting one that’s too large or too small.
Be Prepared
Some tree farms offer the convenience of paved roads, cutting assistance, and free baling. If you decide to go to a more rustic location, be prepared with the following items as appropriate:
- Snow tires and/or chains
- Snowshoes
- Saw and trimming devices
- Twine for baling
- Rope for securing the tree to your vehicle
- Appropriate cold weather gear
- A thermos with a warm beverage
If information on your chosen location isn’t readily available, consider calling ahead to ask about which of the above items you may want to bring. The more prepared you are in advance, the easier it will be to make this fun family tradition go as smoothly as possible.
Enjoy Your New Tree!
When you get home, put your tree in water as soon as possible to keep it hydrated. Bring out the snacks, put on your favorite holiday music, and start decorating!
