About
Trace Your Trail
Learn about Jason's Journey and what inspired him to start Trace Your Trail - the only guided hiking tours of San Juan Island.
Hi, I’m Jason Tracer
Thanks for stopping by! I spent 5 years as a hiking and sea-kayaking guide in Alaska before managing natural history guided trips and remote eco-lodges for another 9 years. I know what you’re thinking… Alaska?! Don’t worry, I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest on the Salish Sea and returned to this beautiful area 4 years ago, so I have a very good grasp and knowledge of the area.
I’m guessing that you’re here because, like me, you love a good hike or adventure that’s informative, fun, and easy-going. An experience that gets you in touch with nature and landscape. And with a company that’s committed to sustainability. Look no further. We’re here to get you on the trail and take care of the details. Trace Your Trail is happy to be your guide.
Trace Your Trail started on San Juan Islands Mt. Finlayson trail. While chatting with a friend during the hike, the realization hit me that I should offer guided hiking tours. Of course! Why wouldn’t I combine my love of nature with something I do every day. And I’ve got the experience of guiding and running successful tour operations. The switch in my head turned on and it's shining bright. So, here we are to get you out on the trail. We’d love to have you along for the journey.
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“Jason is a rare gem in today’s busy world. His warm nature is comforting and his love for exploration and the natural world creates exciting and educational experiences. I have had the pleasure of working with Jason as a co-guide and in management and I have always admired his diplomatic leadership and ability to communicate the wonders of nature in a way that is understandable for people of all ages. His light-hearted and positive attitude, combined with his extensive knowledge make every outing enjoyable and informative.”
ELISE LOCKTON - NATURALIST, LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS -
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“With extensive outdoor experience in coastal Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, there is no one better than Jason to be bringing his passion, expertise, and professionalism to guided offerings on San Juan Island. Having worked for many field education and guiding outfits myself - both in operations and on the ground - I can honestly say that when it comes to sharing the outdoors with someone there are few folks as competent and fun as Jason.
His extensive knowledge base, keen eye for risk management, and ability to ensure everyone in a group is comfortable and having fun are what you want in a guide outfit. Join Jason for a half-day hike on the island, and I guarantee you'll leave feeling like family.”
JOHN BEYE - FORMER ADULT PROGRAM MANAGER AT TETON SCIENCE SCHOOLS AND EXPEDITION GUIDE WITH NATURAL HABITAT ADVENTURES
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“Jason has served many key roles for Alaska Wildland Adventures over the years, from Lodge Manager (two different wilderness lodges only accessible by boat!) to carpenter and builder (he helped build my house and was involved with multiple company projects …) to Operations Manager (a manager of managers). He is a kind and sincere soul with an eye for quality and heart for respectful interactions between guests and staff members. I wish him well in his pursuits!”
KIRK HOESSLE, PRESIDENT AND CEO (CHIEF EXPLORATION OFFICER), ALASKA WILDLAND ADVENTURES
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“As a professional adventure guide for nearly 20 years, I've been fortunate to have worked with many amazing people. Jason is at the top of the list. He is extremely competent, well organized and possesses an impressive skill set well suited for outdoor adventures and beyond. As a member of his guide team over the years, I've seen first hand how Jason inspires, educates and supports. He's an ace problem solver and stays cool under pressure, two traits that make him an invaluable resource on any trip. But perhaps even more impressive than his leadership skills is his ability to connect with people from all over the planet. His easy going nature, sense of humor and curiosity make conversations effortless and enjoyable. He enjoys getting to know people and loves a good conversation.
Jason is truly an exceptional person. I would follow him into the remotest parts of the world. And I have.”
JEFF DUCKLOW, PAST ADVENTURE GUIDE WITH MONTANA WHITEWATER, AUSTIN ADVENTURES, AND FLYING PIG RAFTING
Explore the wonders
of the island
Our diverse range of tours each offers a unique glimpse into the island's natural and cultural wonders. From coastal hikes to sunset vistas, there's something for everyone.
Experience the beauty of Jakle’s Lagoon and Mt. Finlayson or delve into the history of American Camp and the Pig War. Indulge in a beachside lunch at Westcott Bay Shellfish Company or witness the breathtaking sunset from Young Hill. Custom tours are also available, allowing you to tailor your island adventure.
Included in every trip are transportation, a knowledgeable guide, trekking poles, and refreshments. Just bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure!
Explore
San Juan Island
Get to know the wildlife
We’re committed
to sustainability
At Trace Your Trail, sustainability isn't just a practice—it's our promise to the future.
We're deeply committed to preserving the San Juan Islands, ensuring their natural beauty endures for generations. We embrace community engagement and cultural respect by educating travelers and empowering them to become advocates for sustainability. We give back 1% of our revenues to social causes, community projects, environmental conservation, and educational programs.
Join us at Trace Your Trail, where every journey is not just an adventure—it's a step towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
You gotta have a lot of questions. Look no further:
Frequently asked questions
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From Seattle: Take I-5 Northbound for 1 hour to exit 230 in Burlington, WA. From there drive west on Hwy 20 to Anacortes and follow signs to Anacortes Ferry terminal. Enjoy the beautiful ferry journey from Anacortes to Friday Harbor. If you plan to bring your car, make sure to make a ferry reservation well in advance. No reservations needed to park at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal and walk onto the ferry. We highly recommend this option if you don’t need to drive yourself everywhere on the island.
From Bellingham and North: Take I-5 Southbound to exit 230 in Burlington, WA. From there drive west on Hwy 20 to Anacortes and follow signs to Anacortes Ferry terminal. Enjoy the beautiful ferry journey from Anacortes to Friday Harbor. If you plan to bring your car, make sure to make a ferry reservation well in advance. No reservations are needed to park at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal and walk onto the ferry. We highly recommend this option if you don’t need to drive yourself everywhere on the island.
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If you’re planning to bring your car to San Juan Island, it is advisable to make your ferry reservation at least 2 weeks in advance. An easier alternative is walking onto the ferry. Simply park at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal parking and walk onto the ferry. No reservations are required. Plan ahead with the Anacortes / San Juan Islands Ferry Schedule.
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Bellair Charters and Airporter provides bus service from Seatac International Airport to and from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal.
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Kenmore Air has quick and scenic flights from Seattle’s Boeing Field and Everett’s Paine Field to San Juan Island. A fun alternative offered by Kenmore Air is by floatplane from Seattle’s Lake Union to Friday Harbor Marina on San Juan Island.
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For your comfort and enjoyment, we recommend wearing typical hiking or walking attire. Be sure to bring along a day pack containing essentials such as a water bottle, an extra layer for wind and rain, a sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Binoculars are optional but may enhance your experience, as well as bringing along snacks if desired. Most importantly, don't forget to bring your sense of adventure and fun!
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Pick up and drop off from your accommodation or the ferry
Food and beverages provided locally
Extra water, coffee, tea, and snacks
Knowledgeable local guide
Trekking poles
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We will pick you up at your island accommodation or at Memorial Park adjacent to the Friday Harbor Ferry Terminal. When you book your trip, you will be asked where you’d like to be picked up. Pick-ups outside of Friday Harbor town limits will be charged a 10.00 dollar fee.
Half-day trips: 9:45 AM or 2:15 PM
Full-day trips: 10:00 AM
Sunset Tour: 6:45 - 7:30 Time indicated at time of booking.
Changes throughout the year.
Custom / Family Tour: Flexible start time -
San Juan Island enjoys a mild maritime climate, which keeps things cooler than most other places in the country, during the summer months. June through August, you can expect average daytime highs around 70 degrees and lows around 50. This is also the driest time of year with very minimal precipitation.
May and September are also great times to visit and avoid the crowds with comfortable temps and minimal rainfall. In fact, 70% of San Juan Islan’s precipitation falls between October and April.
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San Juan Island and the coastal waters of the Salish Sea have a wide range of wildlife.
While there are no guarantees to see wildlife as they have their own agenda, there is opportunity to see: Red Fox, Columbia Black-tail Deer, Orca Whales, Humpback Whales, Bald Eagles, Harbor Seals, Stellar and California Sea-lions, numerous bird species, and don’t forget about the unique coastal zones teeming with sea-stars, mollusks and bi-valves.
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Our tours will never have more than 7 people. We believe a small group experience is more fulfilling for our guests and minimizes the impact on our island.
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We are the only island company offering guided hiking and walking natural history and historical tours on San Juan Island. Everything we offer is locally sourced from the community. We also give back at least 1% of our profits to local conservation groups and to our island community.
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The trails on San Juan are well maintained. You can expect to encounter roots and uneven ground typical to most hiking trails. Give a call if you have any questions or concerns. Happy to chat about it.
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We follow the recommended guidelines set forth by San Juan Island National Historical Park. Found HERE. These guidelines set a minimum of 75 feet from wildlife and a minimum of 150 feet for Seals and Sea lions. If our presence is altering wildlife behavior, we will move further away.
