AK to DC: US Capitol Christmas Tree Tour Begins Now

Kenworth and Lynden Transport Team Up to Transport the 2024 US Capitol Christmas Tree

The 2024 US Capitol Christmas Tree will embark on a remarkable journey from the Tongass National Forest in Alaska to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., thanks to a collaboration between Kenworth and Lynden Transport. This year’s tour promises to deliver not only the tree but also holiday cheer to communities across the country.

A Kenworth T680: The Perfect Ride for the ‘People’s Tree’

For the 11th consecutive year, Kenworth is providing a specially designed truck to transport the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. The sleek Kenworth T680, equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and state-of-the-art PACCAR Powertrain, will carry the tree over 4,000 miles across the U.S. This truck features a special graphic wrap inspired by Alaska’s Tongass and Chugach National Forests, aligning with the tour’s theme, “Where Nature, People, and Tradition Come Together.”

Inside, the T680 boasts a luxurious interior designed for driver comfort. The cabin is equipped with GT703 leather seats, heating and cooling systems, a microwave, refrigerator, TV space, and a rotating work table—ensuring drivers stay comfortable throughout the journey. Additionally, the truck comes with cutting-edge driver-assistance features, including Kenworth’s Digital Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist.

Legendary Drivers Fred Austin and John Schank Lead the Way

Lynden Transport, a trusted logistics provider based in Alaska, is once again tasked with delivering the tree. Behind the wheel will be two celebrated drivers, John Schank and Fred Austin. Both drivers bring over four decades of experience with Lynden, having collectively covered more than 10 million accident-free miles.

Schank, who transported the Capitol Christmas Tree in 2015, recalls his previous experience fondly: “I stopped along the way for community events and met kids who thought I was Santa bringing the Christmas tree to the U.S. Capitol. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.” Schank has received multiple honors for his career, including recognition from the Alaska Trucking Association and former governors.

Fred Austin, a veteran driver and mentor at Lynden’s training center, also shares his enthusiasm for the journey. Known as the “Icon of the Alcan,” Austin has been with Lynden since the Alaska oil pipeline construction began in 1975. His reputation as a skilled and inspiring driver makes him a perfect fit for this festive cross-country journey.

The Tree’s Journey and Community Whistlestop Events

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree tour will kick off with a harvest celebration on October 26 in Wrangell, Alaska. After a series of events in Alaska, the tree will be transported via Alaska Marine Lines to Seattle. From there, the Lynden team will drive the tree across the U.S., stopping at parks, plazas, and community events along the way.

The full tour schedule includes stops in key locations such as:

• Oct. 30: Ketchikan, Alaska
• Nov. 6: Renton, Washington
• Nov. 9: Pocatello, Idaho, and Murray, Utah
• Nov. 11: Loveland, Colorado
• Nov. 17: Columbus, Ohio
• Nov. 22: Delivery at the U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C.

Real-time tracking of the tree will be available using Kenworth’s TruckTech+ technology, allowing anyone to follow the journey through an interactive map on the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree website.

A Memorable Celebration

The tour will culminate with the delivery of the tree on November 22 to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. In early December, the Architect of the Capitol and the U.S. Speaker of the House will host a festive tree-lighting ceremony.

“We are proud to provide the truck for the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree for the 11th year in a row,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager. “This celebration brings communities together across the country, spreading holiday cheer along the way.”

With the combined efforts of Kenworth, Lynden Transport, and their skilled drivers, this year’s U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree tour promises to be an unforgettable journey, delivering joy from Alaska to the heart of Washington, D.C.