Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Growing up on the banks of Idaho’s Salmon River in a legendary rafting family, Devon Barker understood the power of being active outside and forming a relationship with your environment from an early age.
A professional kayaker and raft guide turned middle school teacher, Devon wanted to help other local youth find their way to the river. Drawing inspiration from the D.A.R.E programs of the 1990s and early 2000s, Devon launched DARE to Kayak, a multi-day program that brings kids from the greater Riggins area on the Salmon River, teaching them how to kayak, giving them an alternative to drugs, alcohol, and screens while building confidence in themselves and fostering a life-long relationship with the outdoors.
“For me, I’m really passionate about helping kids find something they’re really passionate about, that can steer their life.” – Devon Barker, Founder, DARE to Kayak.
Learn more about DARE to Kayak at barkerriver.com/d-a-r-e-to-kayak
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Featuring:
Devon Barker & The DARE to Kayak Program.
Filmed summer 2025
DARE to Kayak is made possible by support from Wild Rivers Grant, paid for in part by funds from DMV issued White Water Rafting license plate sales.
Growing up on the banks of Idaho’s Salmon River in a legendary rafting family, Devon Barker understood the power of being active outside and forming a relationship with your environment from an early age.
A professional kayaker and raft guide turned middle school teacher, Devon wanted to help other local youth find their way to the river. Drawing inspiration from the D.A.R.E programs of the 1990s and early 2000s, Devon launched DARE to Kayak, a multi-day program that brings kids from the greater Riggins area on the Salmon River, teaching them how to kayak, giving them an alternative to drugs, alcohol, and screens while building confidence in themselves and fostering a life-long relationship with the outdoors.
“For me, I’m really passionate about helping kids find something they’re really passionate about, that can steer their life.” – Devon Barker, Founder, DARE to Kayak.
Learn more about DARE to Kayak at barkerriver.com/d-a-r-e-to-kayak
-
Featuring:
Devon Barker & The DARE to Kayak Program.
Filmed summer 2025
DARE to Kayak is made possible by support from Wild Rivers Grant, paid for in part by funds from DMV issued White Water Rafting license plate sales.
