For the last, well ever since I can remember, Christmas Tree cutting has always been an annual holiday tradition in my family. Every year, we all get bundled up and tromp out into the "offical" cutting area designated by the National Forest, just to find that "PERFECT" tree. But, it is so much more than that. After all, anyone could go down to the local tree lot and do that. No, it's the bringing together of the entrie family for one project where everyone cooperates and works together. It's that special family time we share. It's also a time to take in the surrounding beauty, peace and sereness that has been given to us, a time to stop, take a moment and realize what the Christmas Season is truly about. And, it's simply a blast! This year, we hiked up into the backwoods off the Westbound I-70 scenic area between Silverthorne and Frisco, as this is the "offical" desginated tree cutting area. And the weather was beautiful - sunny and warm, at least 32-34 degrees as the snow was melting just enough. You couldn't ask for a better day. I remember times of cutting Christmas Trees in much colder, frostier weather, but that didn't stop us. Couldn't let a little Colorado weather break family tradition! And the money collected from the tree permits goes to such a wonderful cause - towards protecting our National Forests. Another precuous gift to be thankful for.
 
My brother, Brian, hard at work cutting the family Ah . . . A job well done! Christmas Tree. _________________________________________ Now, I share this family tradition with you, so that maybe you will pass it on to your own families and discover all the fun you are missing out on. Hurry though, as there are just a handful of days left that the Dillon Ranger District is offering Christmas Tree cutting permits. Tree cutting will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. now through December 24. The last big weekend, however is December 13-14. Permits are $10 per tree with a maximum of five trees per indivdual, and are available either at the tree cutting site or at the Dillon Ranger District office, 680 Blue River Parkway in Silverthorne. Here are just a few tips from the forest service when seeking out that perfect tree: - Trees must be less than 15 feet tall.
- Only Lodgepole Pines are to be cut.
- Trees are for personal use only and cannot be resold.
- Bring a hand saw, as chain saws are NOT allowed.
- No cutting of trees on private lands outside the National Forest area or within campgrounds.
- DO NOT cut any trees marked with BLUE or GREEN paint.
- Dress warmly and in layers for the winter weather.
- Leave pets at home or keep them on a leash at ALL times as the parking lot can be very busy, especially on weekends.
- Bring tie downs or rope to secure tree to your vehichle. Attach the bright pink permit to the tree so that it is visible, to help with checkout.
- And remember, please take all your trash home with you - pack it in, pack it out, leave no trace.
For more information, call 970-468-5400 or visit www.dillonrangerdistrict.com.
So, from my house to yours, one family tradition to another . . . May all of you have a wonderfully Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year too! Blog By Christy Darling |
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