Antler Christmas Tree: Rustic Charm for the Holiday Season
The antler Christmas tree is redefining rustic holiday décor with nature-inspired elegance. Imagine a cozy cabin, snow falling outside, and a glowing tree crafted from naturally shed antlers—a perfect blend of wilderness and warmth. This festive centerpiece brings creativity and conservation together, appealing to everyone from adventurous families to urbanites seeking a touch of the outdoors.
What Is an Antler Christmas Tree?
At its core, an antler Christmas tree is a cone-shaped structure constructed from shed antlers—typically deer, elk, or moose. These antlers are artfully arranged to resemble a traditional evergreen tree, then adorned with fairy lights, rustic ornaments, and evergreen garlands to convey the holiday spirit.
Many antler trees are assembled using naturally dropped antlers sourced from artisan outlets or collected during hikes in wildlife-rich regions like Jackson Hole, Montana’s Gallatin Valley, and Estes Park, Colorado. The process promotes sustainability, local craftsmanship, and wildlife conservation—all while offering a stunning and meaningful alternative to the conventional Christmas tree.
Whether you’re an outdoors enthusiast, part of a hunting family, or just drawn to mountain-inspired design, this eco-friendly holiday option celebrates the wild beauty of winter without cutting down a tree.
Where to See Antler Christmas Trees
If you’re traveling through the western U.S. during the holidays, you’ll notice how the antler Christmas tree has become a regional symbol of holiday cheer. One iconic display appears in Jackson, Wyoming, where the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce partners with locals to assemble a towering elk antler tree right beside the town’s famed antler arches.
In Estes Park, Colorado, near Rocky Mountain National Park, trees crafted with antlers pop up in shop windows, lodge foyers, and along the festive stretch of Elkhorn Avenue. Don’t miss the local stores offering handcrafted ornaments and nature-themed displays that blend art with alpine tradition.
Farther north, Whitefish, Montana transforms into a snowy holiday village during its Christmas Stroll. Look for beautifully designed antler displays in galleries, cafés, and boutique lodges—many created by craftspeople from Rocky Mountain Rustic. These smaller-scale trees offer intimate charm with handmade flair.
How to Make Your Own Antler Christmas Tree
Looking to bring a rustic touch into your home? Building an antler Christmas tree can be a rewarding winter project. With the right tools and materials, even beginners can create a striking centerpiece.
- Find Antlers: Search for naturally shed antlers during winter hikes in regions like Bozeman, Livingston, and Cody. Alternatively, pick them up at flea markets, craft shops, or local artisans’ booths.
- Plan the Design: Choose between a minimalist structure or a densely-layered tree. Pinterest and galleries from Taos or Santa Fe—like Rio Grande Gallery—offer amazing inspiration.
- Build Safely: Use a stable frame and secure each antler with metal wire, screws, or zip ties. Always wear gloves and ensure your base can handle the weight.
- Add Décor: Complement the sculpture with LED string lights, pinecones, berries, and snow-resistant ornaments. For outdoor trees, solar-powered lights are ideal.
If you’d prefer to purchase one, head to Pagosa Springs, Colorado, or visit artisan stands at markets like the Denver Christkindl Market. Local woodworkers often sell pre-assembled antler trees in various sizes and designs.
Family Travel and Antler Traditions
Plan a family vacation designed around nature, craft, and seasonal joy—all centered on the antler Christmas tree. From sled shed hunts to holiday parades, kids and adults alike can enjoy outdoor fun while learning about local wildlife.
In Montana’s Big Sky Country, towns like Red Lodge and Livingston host winter festivals that encourage exploration and creativity. Some even offer guided antler hunts, where participants learn about the deer and elk shedding process while collecting materials for craft projects.
Visit the National Bison Range near Missoula or the Wildlife Museum of the West in Cody to dive deeper into ecology and antler education. These visits add a layer of meaning to your holiday displays—turning them into learning experiences rooted in stewardship.
In Breckenridge, Colorado, combine snowshoeing with crafts during the annual Winter Dew Tour. End your day by constructing a tabletop antler tree near a roaring fireplace. Families can also explore the Frisco Historic Park, where 19th-century cabins come alive with frontier-style Christmas displays.
Where to Shop and Stay
To fully immerse yourself in the antler trend, visit towns that celebrate rustic design. In Sun Valley, Idaho, stores like Bella Cabi feature handcrafted décor, including limited-edition antler tree sculptures. For a luxurious stay, the Knob Hill Inn offers special holiday packages that include custom keepsakes.
At the elegant Four Seasons Jackson Hole, you’ll find stunning lobby displays inspired by the natural world. Some years, their holiday décor has included antler garlands and wilderness themes, recreating the look of an organic, freeform antler Christmas tree. Book early for seasonal packages, which may include sleigh rides and guided wildlife tours.
For budget-friendly travelers, Leadville, Colorado offers charm and festive spirit on a smaller scale. Visit the town’s holiday parade to spot antler-adorned floats, then stop by Mountain Man Gifts to pick up mini antler trees for RVs or camper shelves.
Celebrate the Season with a Rustic Touch
The antler Christmas tree stands at the crossroad of tradition and nature. Whether you’re decorating a snowy cabin or a city apartment, its rugged elegance and handmade appeal make it a distinctive holiday favorite. Invite the outdoors in while honoring wildlife cycles and supporting local artisans.
This year, ditch the plastic and conventional. Take the scenic route—search for natural beauty, handcrafted magic, and that cozy feeling only a rustic holiday can bring. The antler Christmas tree isn’t just décor—it’s a celebration of wilderness, wonder, and warmhearted tradition.
