Thea Lander has been guiding white water raft trips with Grand Canyon Whitewater since 2009. Here’s her story, in her own words:

“Growing up in Germany, I had never seen Grand Canyon until I was 16 years old. Needless to say I was blown away by its magnificence. When I moved to Flagstaff in 2008, my older sister was working as a hiking guide in the Canyon; I started hiking with her on a regular basis just for fun. In 2009, I was able to do my first river trip. After that trip, I was hooked. Being in Grand Canyon is a life-changing experience. I have become a more positive, open-minded and appreciative person. The Colorado River brings me a feeling of excitement as well as calmness and freedom. The Grand Canyon and the great people I have met on river trips have changed my perspective on life. I hope to be inspired by the Canyon’s majesty throughout my entire life.

Besides rafting and hiking in Grand Canyon, I have a degree in social work. I enjoy any type of outdoor activity, from skiing to exploring trails around Flagstaff and Sedona, Arizona. I love running all rivers and I am currently honing my kayak skills.”