Christmas tree farms in Southern California

Christmas tree farms are scattered throughout Southern California. Several provide fun activities for families before or after they've picked and cut their own tree. Some of the sites:

The Fillmore & Western Railway , offers twice-daily excursions on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets cost $22 for adults, $12 for children 4 to 12, and $8 for 2- and 3-year-olds. Trees range from $40 to $55. Saws are provided at the Santa Paula Christmas Tree Farm at 18540 E. Telegraph Road (Highway 126) in Santa Paula (Ventura County). Food -- freshly prepared onboard -- is available in the train's dining car; (800) 773-8724, www.fwry.com

The Live Oak Canyon tree farm , in Yucaipa (San Bernardino County) features Monterey pines. Six varieties of trees, ranging from $19 to $500. Outdoor concerts and visits from Santa on weekends; (909) 795-8733, www.liveoakcanyon.com

The appropriately named Pine Tree Acres, in Ramona (San Diego County) offers kid-friendly activities. Trees sold at $6.50 per foot, plus $2 to wrap in a net; (760) 788-5524), www.pinetreeacres.com

For a more wintry experience, head to Big Bear Tree Farm in Big Bear City (San Bernardino County). At 7,000 feet, the air is cooler and Mother Nature may even provide a dusting of snow. (951) 505-2945