Jon Burak

Like so many before him, Jon left eastern Canada at age 20, chasing his passion for adventure to the Coast Mountains of British Columbia.

With a lifelong love of being in, on, and around the water, Jon credits the thrill of solo boat missions to being a young boy on the Ontario Lakes. That early love of water has led him around the world: ocean kayaking in Thailand, Vietnam and Canada; surfing in Europe; whitewater rafting in North and Southern America.

Over 12 years as a whitewater raft guide, Jon developed a strong—and respectful—pull to rivers. 5 years in, he began (safely) paddleboarding the rivers he’d been guiding on - and he’s rarely gone anywhere without his paddleboard since. Paddling out for some solitude, getting into big whitewater for an adrenaline rush, or loading up with good food and beer to take off on a fantastic adventure with friends or the family. The endless choices for adventure inspire him onwards.

Jon Wears the Khimera Dual Flotation PFD

 As co-founder of Mountain Life Media—Canada’s top outdoor adventure publisher—his journey has been a mixture of hard work, a desire for creative expression, and knowing when it’s time to have fun. He credits his community of friends and colleagues for always being ready to head out into the wild and find a new connection with nature, each other and themselves.

Jon currently lives in Squamish, BC with his two amazing sons and wife.

Oh, and in the winter, he skis.

Fast Facts

• Ontario born, West Coast living
• Father to 3 year old
• Co-founder, Mountain Life Media
• 12+ years whitewater guiding, 7+ years paddleboard guiding
• Hosting paddleboard retreats internationally