After three decades at the helm of one of Fernie’s most beloved adventure companies, the founders of Canyon Raft Company are officially handing over the reins. Blair Craig and Lynn Muller – who co-founded Canyon Raft Co. in 1995– have announced a leadership transition this month, passing day-to-day operations to longtime river guide Adam Howie. The change marks the end of an era for the couple who pioneered commercial rafting on the Elk River, yet it also ushers in a new chapter led by a familiar face.
For 30 years, Blair and Lynn poured their passion and service into Canyon Raft Co., building it from a fledgling operation into a renowned outdoor adventure company known for safe, memorable rafting excursions. Since incorporating in 1995, the duo has guided thousands of locals and tourists down the wild Elk and Bull Rivers. Blair Craig is even credited as “the pioneer of commercial rafting on the Elk River”, having run its rapids since the 1980s. Lynn Muller, for her part, became famous in Fernie for her boundless enthusiasm – she’s “well known around town for always being excited about everything, especially anything to do with the river. Together, their names have become synonymous with whitewater excitement in the Elk Valley.
Over the decades, the couple fostered a close-knit crew and a loyal customer following. Canyon Raft’s guides are celebrated for their passionate and fun approach, sharing a genuine love of the river with every boat of rafters. Under Blair and Lynn’s leadership, a day on the river wasn’t just about navigating rapids – it was about storytelling, laughter, and making everyone feel like part of the family. “They really made the trip so amazing and acted as if we were all friends,” wrote one guest in a recent review, echoing sentiments heard countless times. From thrilling whitewater runs to gentle float trips, Blair and Lynn ensured each outing lived up to the company motto: “the best day of your summer.”
Now, as the 2025 season approaches, the founding pair are stepping back from full-time operations. “It’s been an incredible ride for us, but it’s time to let the next generation take over,” said Blair, reflecting on the transition. He and Lynn expressed heartfelt gratitude to the community and clients they’ve served over the years, emphasizing that their decision comes with confidence in the team carrying on their legacy. Importantly, Blair and Lynn won’t be disappearing from the river scene – while they’re retiring from the daily grind, they plan to remain involved in the background and around town. Longtime customers might still spot the couple at the boat launch or even joining the odd raft trip for fun. “Fernie is our home and the rivers are our life – we’ll still be around to cheer everyone on,” Lynn said with her trademark excitement.
The new man in charge, Adam Howie, is hardly a stranger to Canyon Raft Co.’s crew or its guests. A fellow Canadian and veteran river guide with years of International experience, Howie has been guiding with the company earning the respect of colleagues and rafters alike. Now officially at the helm, he’s honored to continue the tradition
“Adam knows these rivers and he understands what makes this company tick,” noted Muller, who is helping mentor him along with Blair. “Handing over the raft paddle to him just felt right.”
“Blair and Lynn built something truly special here,” Howie said. “I’m excited to carry that forward – our rafters can count on the same amazing experiences and friendly vibes that Canyon Raft is known for.”
Howie’s appointment has been met with enthusiastic approval from the Canyon Raft team. Many guides and staff have worked alongside him on the Elk River’s rapids and know his leadership style well. Having learned directly from Blair and Lynn, Howie plans to maintain the “world-class staff” ethos and high safety standards that have defined the company. His deep knowledge of the local rivers and his easygoing humor mean the culture of fun, informative adventures will continue uninterrupted. In short, the company’s DNA remains unchanged – it’s a “new boss, same great river family” situation at Canyon Raft.
Blair and Lynn have expressed full confidence in their successor. “Adam knows these rivers like the back of his hand and he understands what makes this company tick,” noted Muller, who helped mentor him. “Handing over the raft paddle to him just felt right.” The founders’ decision to entrust Canyon Raft Co. to an internal leader ensures continuity: the business stays local and family-oriented, rather than changing hands to an outside owner. For Fernie, that continuity is a point of pride. “We’re keeping it in the community, and that was important to us,” Craig added.
As Canyon Raft Company prepares for its first season under new leadership, one thing is abundantly clear – the signature rafting adventures will carry on unchanged. Returning guests can expect the same mix of thrills and personal touch that have made Canyon Raft trips a summertime staple in Fernie. The Elk River Canyon, with its rushing class III-IV rapids and scenic cliff-lined stretches, will still challenge paddlers and inspire celebratory whoops and high-fives. Gentle float tours will still offer families a relaxing way to take in the mountain views. All the trip options and traditions honed over 30 years remain firmly in place, guided by the experienced team that rafters have come to know and trust.
From a practical standpoint, the transition is designed to be seamless. Booking a rafting trip, gearing up, the safety briefings – all will proceed as usual under Howie’s management. “Really, it’s the same crew and the same rivers. Guests probably won’t notice any difference except maybe seeing me driving the bus instead of Blair,” Howie joked. That consistency is intentional, aimed at reassuring long-time patrons that their annual rafting pilgrimage to Fernie will be as memorable as ever. Canyon Raft Co.’s focus on safety and enjoyment remains at the forefront, and the new leader has no plans to fix what isn’t broken. If anything, Adam Howie says he is looking forward to building on the strong foundation: “I learned from the best. My goal is to keep that momentum going and maybe add a few new touches of my own over time.”
Local tourism officials and community members have welcomed the news, happy to see a smooth succession for a homegrown company that has become a cornerstone of Fernie’s summer economy. Canyon Raft Co. not only provides unforgettable experiences for visitors, but also contributes to the town’s vibrancy – from employing local guides (many of whom return year after year) to supporting events like Fernie’s annual raft race. The leadership change ensures those benefits will continue. It’s a family business remaining in friendly hands, which bodes well for the community.
With spring runoff around the corner, the Canyon Raft team is already gearing up for opening day. The rafting season in Fernie typically kicks off by early-June, when water levels are high and excitement is too. This year, that anticipation is tinged with the excitement of new beginnings. The guides are training, the gear is being prepped, and Adam Howie is ready to launch his tenure on a wave of optimism. “The whole crew is excited for 2025 – we can’t wait to get out on the water and do what we love,” Howie said.
