A snowman ornament mad from recycled materials hung on one of the scavenger hunt trees in past years

The Amazing Decorated Winter Tree Scavenger Hunt

Nov 3, 2025 | Events | 0 comments

The Amazing Decorated Winter Tree Scavenger Hunt

Chelmsford Massachusetts

Decorator Sign Up and Participation Guide

Thank you for your interest in decorating a tree for The Amazing Decorated Winter Tree Scavenger Hunt. This has become a tradition for many families and civic groups and is a fun way to enjoy our open spaces during the winter season. We welcome new decorators and returning decorators.

This program highlights community spirit, creativity, and outdoor enjoyment. Trees are not hidden. They are placed along main trails so families can easily see them and safely stop for a visit and photo.

How to sign up

Send a message with:

Your name
Group name if any
Preferred site number
Second choice site number
Phone or email
Any accessibility needs such as lower branches or close access point

Wait for confirmation before decorating. Some sites are already reserved for long standing participants.

Location flexibility and early November adjustments

We have high demand for decorating sites. To accommodate as many families and groups as possible, locations may change or new sites may be added during the first two weeks of November. We want to keep flexibility in case a spot does not work out or a new opportunity becomes available.

Full placement and final assignments will be locked in after the second week of November. If a location poses access issues, conflicts with trail conditions, or is not suitable when scouted, we will work with you to relocate.

If you have a location suggestion or need to request a different site, let us know early and we will do our best to make it work. The goal is to support families and groups while keeping the event organized and respectful of land conditions.

Placement & other rules

Trees must be placed:

At least 100 feet from the trail entrance
On the main trail
Visible from the trail
Within about 5 to 10 feet of the trail edge
In a place where visitors can safely pause

Do not place trees:

At the trail entrance or parking edge
On side paths or unmarked trails
In wetlands or wet soils
Near vernal pools or seasonal wet depressions
Near stream banks or drainage areas
In restoration or fragile habitat areas
If an area looks fragile or questionable, please pick another spot.

Environmental care

Stay on the main trail
Do not trim or cut branches
Do not disturb soil or roots
Do not attach anything permanently to trees
Follow the concept: “leave no trace”

Decoration rules

Use weather resistant materials
Secure items so they do not come off in wind or snow
Nothing edible for animals
Nothing harmful or sharp
Keep themes family friendly

Photos and location details

Once your tree is set up, send:

Photo of your decorated tree
Photo of your group at the tree
Short description of where it is along the main trail
GPS pin or map screenshot

These help us verify placement and build the map.

An interactive map will be posted in the Facebook group Tree Hunt 2025 and on www.chelmsfordOSS.org once all trees are confirmed.

Maintenance

Check your tree once in December to tighten or replace loose decorations and remove anything that blows off.

Removal

All decorations must be removed the first week of January.
Take everything you bring.
Leave no trace.

Groups who do not complete removal may lose priority placement next year.

Closing

This event continues because participants respect the land and follow the guidelines. Thank you for helping keep The Amazing Decorated Winter Tree Scavenger Hunt a positive and enjoyable tradition for the community.

2025 Tree Site Status Table

Interactive Map

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