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Idaho Spruce Begins 2,000-Mile Journey to Capitol as Annual Tradition Continues

A 76-foot Engelmann spruce cut from Idaho's Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests began its cross-country voyage to the U.S. Capitol this week, marking the third time the state has supplied the annual People's Tree. The haul spans more than 2,000 miles aboard a purpose-built Kenworth flatbed operated by four professional drivers navigating the demanding route.

Idaho Forest Group is sponsoring the 2026 effort, with the Society of American Foresters and the Nez Perce Tribe partnering on the initiative. The tradition spans 56 years, with the honor rotating among America's 154 national forests. Idaho previously supplied trees from the Boise National Forest in 2003 and Payette in 2016. Thousands of handmade ornaments crafted by Idahoans will decorate the tree upon arrival, with Alaska Airlines transporting the decorations by air to ensure timely delivery.