Adding raster data to Table of Contents using ArcPy

Question

I can easily add shapefiles to the Table of Contents in ArcMap using the following code:

mxd = arcpy.mapping.MapDocument("current") 
df = arcpy.mapping.ListDataFrames(mxd, "Layers")[0]
path = os.path.abspath("shapefile_path")
addLayer = arcpy.mapping.Layer(path)
arcpy.mapping.AddLayer(df, addLayer)
arcpy.RefreshActiveView()
arcpy.RefreshTOC()
del mxd, addLayer 

but I am confused how to add raster data (which usually consists of several files).

Answer 1

It is by a very similar means.

1. Use ArcMap to add your raster dataset to a map as a layer
2. Set whatever Layer Properties you want
3. Save the layer just authored as a layer file (*.lyr)
4. Use arcpy.mapping.AddLayer to reference such "layers in a layer (.lyr) file".

If you want to automate the layer authoring process (steps 1-3) then try Make Feature Layer followed by Save To Layer File.