The Capitol Christmas Tree began its western Montana leg this afternoon in Lolo, offering local families a chance to see the towering 80‑foot Grand fir before it continues east to Washington, D.C. The tree, harvested last month from the Nez Perce‑Clearwater National Forest in Idaho, marks the first Idaho‑sourced tree since the state was honored in 2016.
How the tree was chosen
Jim Kaufmann, Executive Director of Capitol Grounds and Arboretum at the Architect of the Capitol, selected the tree during a week‑long scouting trip to the Nez Perce‑Clearwater forests in late summer. After reviewing more than 60 candidate trees identified by Forest Service staff, Kaufmann toured a dozen promising specimens and ultimately chose the Grand fir on the Salmon River Ranger District for its classic, symmetrical shape.
Why Grand fir is a favorite
Grand fir is a popular choice for the national Capitol tree because its branches naturally spread into the iconic Christmas‑tree silhouette when grown in open, sun‑lit areas. The species thrives not only in Idaho but also throughout the Cascade Range of Washington, Oregon and northern California, making it a fitting symbol of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty.
Family‑friendly festivities in Lolo
Travelers’ Rest State Park and the U.S. Forest Service are hosting a free community event from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Lolo Community Center, just south of Missoula. Attendees can enjoy hot cocoa, holiday crafts, and a visit from Santa Claus. Organizers are also encouraging food‑bank donations, reminding families that the spirit of giving is a central part of the celebration.
Parking is limited, so families are urged to carpool. Free shuttles will run from nearby Harvest Foods to the event site, helping reduce traffic and support a greener holiday season.
What’s inside the trailer?
The tree travels in a fully enclosed trailer, decorated with ornaments that were partially crafted by visitors at the Lolo Pass Visitor Center over the summer. This collaborative effort highlights the community’s involvement in the national tradition.
Next stops on the journey east
After Lolo, the tree will travel south on Highway 93 to its next Montana stop in Salmon on Wednesday, November 4. The only other Montana viewing opportunity will be in Gardiner, where the tree will be displayed at the Rodeo Grounds on Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Following the Montana leg, the tree will continue its trek eastward toward the nation’s capital.
How to stay involved
Residents who cannot attend in person can still support the holiday spirit by contributing non‑perishable items to the local food bank, which will be collected at the event. The organizers also encourage volunteers to assist with set‑up, clean‑up and shuttle operations for future stops.
For more information about upcoming stops and how to participate, visit the official Capitol Christmas Tree website or follow the U.S. Forest Service’s social‑media channels.
Original reporting: NewsTalk KGVO 1290 (Townsquare) — read the source article.
