Carla Charlton’s Life After Gold Rush: Where Is She Now?

Carla Charlton was a fan favorite on Gold Rush and its spin-offs, appearing alongside Rick Ness and Parker Schnabel as a survival expert, wilderness guide, and gold room operator. She played a crucial role in various mining expeditions, earning admiration for her skills and determination. However, since leaving the show after Season 11, fans have been wondering what she has been up to.

Life After Gold Rush

After departing from Gold Rush, Carla focused on her passion for the outdoors. She launched CarlaCharltonAdventures.com, offering trekking and packrafting experiences in the Yukon wilderness. As a second-generation guide, she provides immersive survival training, navigation lessons, and foraging techniques to adventure seekers.

Through her website and social media, she shares breathtaking glimpses of her expeditions, proving that her love for exploration remains as strong as ever. Her business is thriving, with outdoor enthusiasts booking guided tours to experience the Yukon’s rugged beauty firsthand.

A Leading Outdoor Expert

Carla’s expertise in bushcraft, survival, and remote navigation has made her a sought-after guide for those looking to challenge themselves in the wild. In addition to leading tours, she conducts workshops on wilderness safety and environmental conservation, promoting responsible adventure tourism.

Beyond guiding, Carla has expanded her portfolio by collaborating with outdoor brands, advocating for eco-friendly exploration gear, and working on photography projects that capture the untouched landscapes she cherishes.

A Voice for Conservation

Carla has become an advocate for environmental preservation, partnering with organizations that protect fragile ecosystems. She actively participates in conservation projects, including reforestation efforts and wildlife protection initiatives, further demonstrating her commitment to the land she loves.

Her efforts have earned her recognition within the outdoor community, making her not just an adventurer but also an ambassador for sustainable travel and responsible exploration.

Addressing the Rick Ness Rumors

During her time on Gold Rush, Carla worked closely with Rick Ness, leading to fan speculation about a possible romance. Their chemistry, both on and off screen, fueled dating rumors. However, Rick was quick to shut down the speculation, stating that Carla is like a sister to him.

In one Instagram post, Carla humorously wore a shirt that read, “Rick is my spirit animal,” reinforcing their strong but platonic bond. Despite fan hopes for a different story, Carla and Rick’s relationship has always been based on mutual respect and friendship.

Will Carla Return to Gold Rush?

As of 2025, Carla has shown no signs of returning to Gold Rush. While she remains supportive of her former co-stars, she has found fulfillment in her wilderness guiding career.

Though she occasionally interacts with Gold Rush fans online—answering questions and reminiscing about her time on the show—she has firmly moved on to new challenges. In interviews, she has mentioned that she prefers a life of exploration rather than being tied to one location for months at a time.

Future Plans: A Book and Public Speaking

Carla has expanded her influence beyond guiding and conservation. She has taken on motivational speaking engagements, sharing her journey of self-reliance, adventure, and survival. She discusses not only her experiences on Gold Rush but also the broader lessons she has learned through years spent in the wilderness.

In addition to speaking, Carla has hinted at a future book project that will document her most thrilling adventures, survival lessons, and personal growth. Fans eagerly await updates on this potential endeavor, as it would provide an even deeper insight into her life beyond reality TV.

A Lasting Legacy in the Gold Rush Universe

Over the years, Gold Rush has introduced audiences to a variety of charismatic and hardworking miners, many of whom have left a lasting impression on fans. While the show continues to evolve, some of its former stars remain in the hearts of viewers who still hope for their return.

Carla Charlton became a well-known name in the Gold Rush universe, particularly for her time with Parker Schnabel and later with Rick Ness’s crew. With her survival expertise, sharp instincts, and on-screen presence, she brought a unique dynamic to the show.

Though she has moved on from Gold Rush, Carla continues to captivate audiences with her outdoor adventures, sharing breathtaking photos and videos of her travels. Fans still express their admiration and hope that she might one day return to the series.

Carla Charlton: Living Life on Her Own Terms

Whether or not Carla ever returns to Gold Rush, one thing is clear—she is thriving in the great outdoors. Her legacy on the show remains strong, and her continued success in the outdoor industry proves that she was never just another cast member—she was, and still is, a true adventurer at heart.

No longer confined to the constraints of reality TV, Carla has fully embraced a life of independence, adventure, and exploration, proving that her journey is far from over. As she continues to carve her own path, she remains an inspiration for those who dream of breaking free from convention and embracing the wild.