Arizona Raft Adventures celebrates 61 years of Grand Canyon journeys

Flagstaff-based company continues legacy started by founder Lou Elliott in 1965

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Arizona Raft Adventures, a third-generation family company based in Flagstaff, Arizona, is celebrating 61 years of guiding adventurers through the Grand Canyon. Founded by Lou Elliott in 1965, the company now operates about 75 trips annually between April and October, employing 12 full-time staff members and up to 120 during peak season. Current owners Fred and Alexandra Thevenin have carried forward the legacy started by Alexandra's grandfather and father.

Why it matters

Arizona Raft Adventures has been a fixture in the Grand Canyon tourism industry for over six decades, providing visitors with unforgettable experiences and instilling a sense of wonder for the natural wonder. The company's commitment to safety, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship has made it a respected leader in the field of river-based adventure travel.

The details

Arizona Raft Adventures was founded in 1965 by Lou Elliott, who was drawn to the thrill of whitewater and exploration in the Grand Canyon. The company was later purchased by the Thevenin family in 2008, who continue to operate the business today. The company focuses on providing exceptional and participatory Grand Canyon raft adventures, with a emphasis on competency, caring, creating a participatory experience, and instilling a sense of wonder. Despite changes in gear and client expectations over the years, the company's experiential focus has remained constant.

  • Arizona Raft Adventures was founded in 1965 by Lou Elliott.
  • The Thevenin family purchased the company in 2008.
  • The company now operates about 75 trips annually between April and October.

The players

Lou Elliott

The founder of Arizona Raft Adventures, who first guided passengers through the Grand Canyon in 1965.

Fred and Alexandra Thevenin

The current owners of Arizona Raft Adventures, who purchased the company from Rob Elliott in 2008 and have carried forward the legacy started by Alexandra's grandfather and father.

Dennis Smoldt

The general manager of Arizona Raft Adventures, who has been with the company for 19 years.

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What they’re saying

“When our families weren't working on the river, they were playing on one.”

— Fred and Alexandra Thevenin (Arizona Raft Adventures website)

“No matter what happens, like true river guides, we will find a way to keep doing what we are doing.”

— Dennis Smoldt, General Manager (Flagstaff Business News)

What’s next

Arizona Raft Adventures plans to continue operating its popular Grand Canyon raft adventures, adapting to changing client expectations and industry regulations while maintaining its focus on safety, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship.

The takeaway

Arizona Raft Adventures' 61-year history in the Grand Canyon tourism industry is a testament to the company's commitment to providing exceptional experiences that inspire a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world. As the company navigates an uncertain future, its dedication to its core values and family-like culture will likely continue to be the keys to its long-term success.