The holiday season is a wonderful time to start new family traditions. One of our favorite activities this year was visiting a Christmas tree farm for the first time, and Trinity Tree Farm in Issaquah, Washington, was the perfect spot. After browsing Red Tricycle’s list of U-cut Christmas Tree farms, we chose Trinity Tree Farm for its beautiful scenery, kid-friendly amenities, and early opening date.
Why Choose a Real Christmas Tree?
Choosing between a real and synthetic Christmas tree can be a tough decision, but the experience of cutting down a real tree is one you’ll cherish forever. We debated whether we should get a real tree since our small apartment didn’t have much room. However, after smelling the fresh pine and fir trees at the farm, we decided the natural scent and ambiance of a real tree was worth the extra effort.
Real trees also have the added bonus of being environmentally friendly—many tree farms like Trinity Tree Farm plant new trees each year to ensure a sustainable cycle.
The Tree-Picking Process
At Trinity Tree Farm, you can choose from various types of Christmas trees, including Douglas Fir, Noble Fir, Grand Fir, and Fraser Fir. Each type has its own characteristics, like needle retention, fragrance, and fullness. It’s helpful to do a little research before your trip to decide what type of tree best suits your needs.
We walked through rows and rows of trees, admiring their different shapes and heights. My toddler had a blast running between the trees, though she did trip a few times over roots—so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and watch your step! The farm even offers scenic views of Mount Rainier, making the entire experience even more magical.
Tree Cutting and Transportation
After selecting the perfect tree, it’s time for the exciting part—cutting it down! Trinity Tree Farm provides hand saws for families to use, and there are staff members around if you need assistance. It’s a great opportunity to get hands-on, though if you prefer, you can also have farm staff cut it down for you.
Once the tree is cut, Trinity Tree Farm offers a shuttle service to help transport the tree back to your car, which is a lifesaver if you’ve chosen a larger tree. Nets and ropes are available for purchase to help secure the tree for the ride home, but I recommend bringing your own if you want to save time.
If you’ve never transported a tree before, it can be a little daunting! Make sure the tree is well secured on the roof of your car with ropes or bungee cords, and avoid driving at high speeds on the way home.
Bringing the Tree Home
Once home, the key is to set up your tree properly to make it last through the holiday season. Trim about an inch off the base of the trunk to help the tree absorb water, and place it in a sturdy stand with plenty of water. A tree can drink up to a gallon of water in the first few days, so check the water level daily to keep your tree fresh.
We love decorating the tree as a family—stringing up lights, hanging ornaments, and adding the final touch: a star on top. It's a special tradition that we look forward to every year.
Tree Disposal: Being Eco-Friendly
When the holidays are over, disposing of your tree responsibly is important. Many cities, including Issaquah, offer curbside tree recycling or drop-off locations where trees are mulched and repurposed. Be sure to remove all decorations, lights, and tinsel before disposal. You can also look into creative ways to reuse your tree, such as turning it into mulch for your garden or using the branches as firewood.
Family Traditions and Memories
For many families, visiting a tree farm has become an annual tradition. It’s not just about finding the perfect tree but also about spending time together, enjoying the crisp winter air, and making memories that last a lifetime. At Trinity Tree Farm, you can also warm up by the fireplace in their cozy gift shop, which offers festive decorations and treats.
Whether it's your first or fifteenth time visiting, the experience of picking and cutting your own Christmas tree is a wonderful way to celebrate the season.
Tips for a Successful Tree Farm Visit
- Dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes: The farm can be muddy and cold, especially if you’re spending a lot of time searching for the perfect tree.
- Bring gloves: Handling tree branches can be prickly, so gloves are a must when cutting down or carrying the tree.
- Arrive early: The best trees are picked early in the season, so don’t wait too long to visit!
- Plan your tree transport: Make sure you know how to secure a tree to your car roof or bring a vehicle with enough space inside.
- Check recycling options ahead of time: Many communities offer tree recycling, but it’s good to know where your drop-off locations are or when your curbside pickup is scheduled.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Trinity Tree Farm was such a memorable experience for the whole family. It’s more than just picking a tree; it’s about creating lasting traditions and enjoying the simple joys of the holiday season. Whether you’re new to Christmas tree farms or it’s a yearly tradition, I highly recommend a visit to Trinity Tree Farm for a festive, family-friendly outing.
Plan Your Visit to Trinity Tree Farm
Website: Trinity Tree FarmAddress: 14237 228th Ave SE, Issaquah, WA 98027
