San Juan Islands Kayaking Expedition

We invite all adult survivors 18 and older to join us on the San Juan Islands Kayaking Expedition for a trip that combines both adventure and serenity.

TAPS Expeditions are outdoor skills-based events that require dedication, preparation and a real sense of adventure. Together with your TAPS family, we'll kayak through the San Juan Islands and experience its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. 

During this adventure, we'll pass tranquil beaches, catch glimpses of marine animals and maybe event spot the occasional orca whale. When we're not kayaking through the islands, we'll have an opportunity to hike beautiful trails and enjoy our time together as we remember our heroes.

Leading up to the trip, we'll form a team bond and gain familiarity with each other through team meetings to discuss training regimens, gear lists and more. Your team will be a source of encouragement as you train for this adventure and an ongoing support network after the expedition is complete.

This trip is being put together through a partnership with REI. For more information, visit www.rei.com/adventures.

SCHEDULE

Day 1: Our trip will begin in Friday Harbor, Washington, for a brief introduction and orientation. Our kayaking journey will start at Roche Harbor, and we'll make our way into the Speiden Channel and Haro Strait. After a stop at one of the picturesque beaches to enjoy our lunch, we'll paddle to Prevost Harbor on Stuart Island where we'll set up camp for the night. We'll explore the island with a hike and then settle in for the evening. Paddling: 7-10 miles

Day 2: A full day of paddling will lead us through protected waters. We'll paddle around the islands and observe marine birds and other wildlife throughout the day. We'll make stops along the way to hike, rest and enjoy lunch. In the late afternoon, we'll head back to camp to rest and relax near the water. Paddling: 10-12 miles

Day 3: On our final day, we'll pack our boats and head northwest toward Turn Point. This breathtaking paddle features views of Mount Baker and the Canadian Cascades. Finally, we'll journey back to Roche Harbor and take a shuttle to Friday Harbor where we'll depart from our expedition. Paddling: 7-10 miles

Note: Please be aware that this itinerary is subject to change due to a number of reasons, including weather and participant skill level.

This schedule is provided by REI. For a more detailed itinerary, visit www.rei.com/adventures.  

TRIP FEES

A $50 deposit will be collected at the time of registration. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors, TAPS will cover the rest of the trip costs, with the exception of your transportation to and from Friday Harbor, Washington, your first night's lodging and some meals.

LODGING AND TRANSPORTATION

You will need to cover the cost of your transportation to and from Friday Harbor, Washington. The closest airport is the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Your first night's lodging will be on your own, but we can assist in recommending lodging options that fit within your budget. Plan to arrive in Friday Harbor by 8 a.m. on Thursday, July 27. Our expedition will conclude late afternoon on Saturday, July 29. You may want to stay in a hotel that night as you will likely be tired. You will need to cover the cost of your hotel stay. If you choose to travel home that day, we suggest you book late flights.

TAPS will cover the costs for all subsequent lodging and meals. During this expedition, we will be camping on Stuart Island.

SKILL LEVEL

This is a physically demanding expedition that will include kayaking several miles a day and some hiking. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we suggest you engage in a regular exercise regimen leading up to the trip. 

If you have any questions, please email expeditions@taps.org or call 800-959-TAPS (8277).