Sonora, CA…The Holiday season is kicking into high gear on the Stanislaus National Forest with events planned over the next few weekends on every Ranger District as folks take to the forest in search of their perfect holiday tree.  In addition to festive decorations, hot chocolate and holiday cheer, forest rangers will be on hand to answer questions and point people in the right direction.

“Especially for those who don’t visit the forest often, taking to the woods with goal of cutting down your own Christmas tree can be a little overwhelming,” said Forest Public Affairs Officer, Benjamin Cossel. “Our rangers will help you understand the height limitations, what tools to use and be on hand with maps of cutting locations.”

Mi-Wuk & Summit Ranger Districts:

Summit Ranger Station – Sunday, December 8, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

For more information, call 209-965-3434

Calaveras Ranger District:

Spicer Sno Park – Friday, November 29, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Sourgrass Day Use Area – Saturday, November 30, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

For more information, call 209-795-1381

Groveland Ranger District:

Akerson Meadow Parking Lot – Saturday, December 7 & 14, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Rush Creek Resort – Saturday, December 7 & 14 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m.

For more information, call 209-962-7825

Christmas trees are $20.00 each and there is a maximum of two (2) trees per permit for a total of $40.00. Fourth graders can use their Every Kid Outdoors pass to obtain one (1) free tree. There is a $2.50 reservation fee for all permits charged by recreation.gov. Tree cutting dates are Friday November 29, 2024, through Tuesday December 31, 2024. Though the permits will be available October 10, trees are not authorized to be cut until November 29, the day following Thanksgiving.