Red River residents can now purchase permits to cut their own Christmas tree from Carson National Forest, a program that supports forest health and offers a festive holiday tradition for local families. The permits went on sale Thursday, Nov. 12, according to Taos News.
Permits are available online through Recreation.gov and at the forest’s district ranger offices. Buyers may select a tree up to 10 feet tall for $5, a tree between 10 and 15 feet for $10, or a tree between 15 and 20 feet for $15. Each person may purchase up to three permits, and permits cannot be bought for others. To purchase online, users must create or log into a Recreation.gov account and search for “Carson National Forest Christmas Tree Permits,” Taos News reports.
Fourth‑grade students who hold an Every Kid Outdoors pass can obtain a free permit by entering the pass or voucher number during checkout, though a $2.50 reservation fee still applies. This encourages youth participation in outdoor recreation while keeping costs low for families.
The permit system also serves an ecological purpose. By allowing limited cutting of small‑diameter trees, the program helps thin crowded stands, promotes the growth of larger trees, and creates openings that provide forage for wildlife, the forest release notes.
In addition to tree cutting, the community will host several holiday events. The annual lighting of the Taos County Plaza Christmas tree is scheduled for Dec. 4 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the same evening as the historic Lighting of Ledoux, where farolitos line Ledoux Street from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. A separate “Bonfires on Bent Street” celebration, organized by John Dunn Shops and Bent Street merchants, will take place Dec. 12 between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., featuring food, music, and a bonfire.
What’s next: Residents should check road conditions and any closure notices—especially around recent wildfire areas—before heading to the forest. Alerts are posted at fs.usda.gov/r03/carson/alerts. The forest supervisor’s office, located at 208 Cruz Alta Rd. in Taos, can be reached at 575‑758‑6200 for additional information. Permits remain available through the holiday season, giving Red River families ample time to plan their tree‑cutting outing and enjoy the upcoming celebrations.
Sources: taosnews.com
