Springfield, Ore - Many of us have memories of trekking into the Cascades to find that perfect Christmas tree. Travel Lane County and its members want to help you make new memories!  

What if this year's excursion included a stay at a lodge or hotel property? Well, that's exactly what Horse Creek Lodge and Outfitters, Eagle Rock Lodge, Oakridge Lodge and Best Western Oakridge Inn are offering this holiday season. Some even allow pets! Check out their special overnight deals, which  includes a free Christmas tree cutting permit and that means you save even more!

If a day trip is what you seek, then we have you covered. Personal use Christmas tree cutting permits, for trees in the Willamette National Forest, are available for $5 at the Eugene, Cascades & Coast Adventure Center. The Adventure Center is located at 3312 Gateway St., in Springfield. The center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Permit holders may cut one tree, up to 12-feet tall, on designated areas of forest service land. A maximum of five permits per household are available. 

While you're at the Adventure Center be sure to check out their Daily Deals. They have a wide selection of Lane County and Oregon products that make great gifts.  

Helpful Tree Cutting Tips - In addition to carrying a cutting tool and a rope or cord to secure the tree to your vehicle, forest and travel officials recommend carrying traction devices and being advised of winter driving conditions, road closures and sno-park permit requirements. Forest service roads may not be plowed and cell phone coverage can be spotty.

When heading out into the forest, officials also recommend carrying a forest map, dressing warmly, bringing along water and snacks, and starting your tree search early in the day to ensure that you're out of the forest before dark.

The Adventure Center also sells sno-park permits and other recreation passes. Maps, brochures and adventure specialists are available to assist visitors and locals with trip planning in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region.

Christmas tree hunters are invited to share their tree adventures with Travel Lane County by using the hashtag #realoregon. Your images may be shared on Travel Lane County's website and social media channels with credit given to the photographer.