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ARTA Staff

Not just river guides, ARTA guides.

All part of the team – We live under the same roof (stars), cook in the same kitchen (campfire), share the same vehicle (truck) and know a lot more about each other than we probably should, so it is only natural that we are all so close.

Our family-style business that began in 1963 has evolved into a modern family-style business of the 21st century. Last year, we had four children of former ARTA guides and multiple sets of siblings working for us along with the 40 or so other guides who are often mistaken for brothers and sisters because of the way they get along. The result is an atmosphere that is warm, wholesome, and congenial.

Welcome to our team, we look forward to meeting you!

Arta Board

Frederica Lofquist

Since 1998

“I am a physician primarily working in rural health. My first and still favorite river is the Middle Fork of the Salmon. I live in Port Townsend, WA where you can generally find me on the water rowing and sailing or exploring the Olympic Peninsula on horseback.”

Glenn Carnahan

Since 1995

“I started boating on the SF American but earned my rowing stripes on the T. I live in Auburn with my wife and three teenagers — all who are becoming passionate about rafting and kayaking (as well as wearing all of my “classic” Patagonia fleece and old ARTA t-shirts).”

Jennifer Orr

Since 1995

“I started on the SF American and ended up working on almost every river ARTA runs. I live on the Arkansas river in Salida CO. When I’m not working or volunteering, you can find me rafting, paddle boarding, tubing or swimming in the Ark.”

Jess Perry Carr

Since 2022

“I guided for ARTA in California and Utah from 2009 until 2017. I live in Truckee with my husband and two kids where I work in economic development for a non-profit. My favorite place to sleep on the river is Box Elder 3 on the Yampa!”

Kirsten Tobey

Since 2016

“I am a social entrepreneur who loves being outdoors. I founded and ran Revolution Foods, a company that produces healthy meals for low-income school kids, for 18 years. I have never been a river guide but still dream of becoming one someday – maybe once all 3 of my kids are in college.”

Lauren O’Brien

Since 2012

“I’m an Ad Sales exec at Google and was an ARTA guide from 1998-2002 (I left rafting to join Google in the fall of 2002). My favorite ARTA river is the Rogue. I live in the Bay Area, and outside of work you can find me on the soccer and lacrosse fields with my three kids, dog and husband. “

Nelson Mathews

Since 1989

“I grew up in Placerville and started on the American in 1980 right after graduating from high school. My brothers, Walt and Andy, also worked for ARTA, as have my nephew Will, daughter Casey, and my son, Theo. ARTA sparked a lifelong passion and a 32+ year career protecting rivers. Currently I am the Interim President of the Western Rivers Conservancy. My wife, Jo and I live in Bend, OR along the Deschutes.”

Tom Hinds

Since 2009

“I’m a communications professional who guided for ARTA on the American and Tuolumne Rivers. I’ve been on the board since 2009, and my spouse Shannon was also an ARTA guide. We met on the American River.”

Zac Unger

Since 2004

“I’ve been guiding since 1989 and still manage to work a few trips every summer, usually in Utah, where I am a flatwater enthusiast. I’m the president of the Oakland Firefighter’s union and I operate a home for wayward river guides.”

Fourteen Rivers, Infinite Possibilities!

Explore all of our destinations.

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Two people do yoga overlooking a river A group of rafts float down a scenic river A group of people site in camp chairs and play instruments